Calabasas Coyotes

Last season's results: (8th in Marmonte, 0-10 overall). Another winless season for the Coyotes in 2005 put their losing streak at 31 games. For the third straight year, the Coyotes ranked last in the Marmonte in points scored (89) and points allowed (362).

Notable returnees: Kevin May, sr., QB (82 completions for 1,009 yards, 6 TDs) Matt Field, sr., WR (19 receptions, 269 yards, 3 TDs); Bobby Sokolowski, sr., FB/LB (11 tackles, 10 assists) Impact Newcomer: Steve Smith, jr., RB/DB Who They Play: Calabasas needs to get a win early to have any confidence in 2006. That win may come against Channel Islands (Sept. 22) at home. Channel Islands finished with one victory last year and this game may be the Coyotes best chance to end their losing streak that has lasted three years. Other big games include Moorpark (Oct. 20), Westlake (Nov. 3) and Agoura (Nov. 10) at home.

Overview: The Coyotes need a ton of help. Their defense ranked last in the Marmonte, giving up 36 points a game, and the offense only reached double figures in two of 10 games. That's not good enough to compete with anyone.

Calabasas can only get better, and according to head coach Wayne Quigley, the team's attitude has been terrific. Quigley has told his squad that they have a clean slate and to not worry about what has happened in the past. If Calabasas can end its losing streak early, it could mean a world of difference for the Coyotes as they would know what it feels like to win and could play with a little more swagger.

Until then, May will have to have a phenomenal year at quarterback because the offensive line is very young and inexperienced. Furthermore, if the team falls behind early, May could be looking to throw more than the coaching staff would prefer.

In a nutshell: Being realistic, predicting Calabasas will win the league would be like saying Snakes on a Plane is going to win an Oscar. Even though the team will probably struggle again in '06, there are signs of improvement. May and Field both have a year of varsity experience under their belts, and if the offensive line can learn quickly, the combo could turn out to be solid for the Coyotes. May showed flashes of brilliance last year, including a game against Simi Valley where he threw for 253 yards. Quigley still isn't sure where Smith will end up after transferring from Jefferson High in Illinois, but if he turns out to be a surprise, Calabasas could have a nice one-two punch at the running back position with him and Sokolowski. Still, the main thing with this CHS team will be patience and confidence. If the team can get a win early, they can start to look at other goals besides ending their losing streak.