The Mustangs have earned a spot in the Central Coast Section playoffs for six years in a row, and the goal is to make it seven. Although it won't be easy, the ingredients are there to make it happen.

Pioneer had a solid 2004 campaign, compiling an overall 6-3 mark along with a 4-2-1 league record that was good enough for a third-place tie in the always-tough Mt. Hamilton Division of the Blossom Valley Athletic League. But the Mustangs had to say goodbye to a talented group of seniors. That group included the core of the offensive line, a pair of all-league running backs and a trio of all-league defensive stalwarts. That seems like a lot of holes to fill, but Krail has confidence in this year's players.

"Although we will miss that group tremendously because they were very talented, we actually are deeper in some skilled positions and have other players that can step up and play key roles," the coach said. "One of the keys to our success this year will be if the offensive line can learn how to be cohesive and get to the point that they communicate effectively with each other."

The line is very young--four juniors and one sophomore--with only one player, junior Eric Sanchez (6-foot, 230 pounds), having any varsity experience. Most of them are also learning how to play new positions on the line. Sanchez will anchor the center of the line, flanked by juniors Chris Brookmeter (5-foot-11, 210), Russ Marrone (5-foot-11, 210) and Jason Wetzel (6-foot-2, 220). Sophomore Tyler Chase rounds out the guys up front.

"Our biggest concern going in was the development of the offensive line," Krail said, "but they have been learning their assignments and working well together and are looking good."

The other key to the Mustangs' success is their ability to "shore up the defense to keep opponents out of the end zone and cut down on the amount of points scored against us," Krail added.

Pioneer has a couple solid returning players who should provide the foundation to build upon and see that happen. Linebacker C.J. Miller (6-foot, 195) and defensive back Nick D'Antonio (5-foot-10, 175) were both all-league selections as juniors and should give dependable leadership in solidifying the defense. Senior Eddie Hsieh (6-foot-2, 190) will nail down one side of the line at a defensive end post. Junior Clark Worthington (6-foot, 175) should add support at a defensive back slot.

Although the Mustangs lost a pair of outstanding backs from their offense, the pool for replacements is deep, and they have excellent quality in returning senior tailback Shaun Souza (5-foot-10, 180). Souza used his speed and quickness to pile up more than 1,200 yards rushing last season and was honored as "Most Outstanding Offensive Back" in the league.

Fortunately for the Mustangs, Souza has a strong supporting cast with a number of options for Krail to chose from. Senior Jon Silva (5-foot-10, 180) returns for Pioneer, and junior Dan Landucci (5-foot-10, 225) is up from the frosh-soph, which finished the season as league co-champions. Silva has plenty of quickness, while Landucci has the size and power to pound out the tough yards inside. Also up from the frosh-soph and ready to step into the action is junior Steven Lopes (5-foot-10, 180). In addition, D'Antonio and Jerry Barnes could see playing time at running back.

Setting up behind center and running the show will be second-year starter quarterback Chris Foley (5-foot-9, 195). As a sophomore last year, Foley got on-the-job training and picked up a year of valuable experience that allowed him to mature and develop into a team leader. With a year under his belt, Foley will have more confidence in directing the Mustangs' offensive machine.

Pioneer has maintained a solid running attack over the last few seasons. A three-pronged attack with two tailbacks and a fullback blasting up the middle or scampering to the outside has proven successful. With the stable of backs he has to choose from, Krail isn't anticipating much of a deviation from this attack.

However, if the Mustangs should chose to alter things somewhat and open up the attack, the weapons are available to do that as well.

"We are much improved at the wideout spot," Krail said.

Senior J.J. Goulden (6-foot, 180) lines up there, and Krail describes him as "very athletic with good speed and good hands."

In addition, senior tight end Ken Dorset (6-foot-1, 190) is an excellent blocker, which is a great asset to the running game, but he also has the skills to pull down a few passes if the Mustangs should choose to throw in his direction.

Pioneer was to open up non-league play by hosting rival Gunderson on Sept. 2 before matching up with Menlo Atherton (Sept. 10) on the road and Saratoga (Sept. 17) at home. All three contests should provide the Mustangs some good competition to tune up for league play.

Independence comes to Mustang country on Oct. 1 for the Mt. Hamilton Division opener for both squads.

Although Oak Grove lost a significant group of talent to graduation, Krail still sees the Eagles as the team to beat in the division.

"They always have a good program and always seem to be right there in the hunt," the coach said. "Hopefully, we will also contend and get back to the playoffs and keep our string alive."

PIONEER HIGH SCHOOL 2005 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Sept. 2, Gunderson, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 10, at Menlo-Atherton, 2 p.m.

Sept. 17, Saratoga, 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 1, Independence, 1:30 p.m.*

Oct. 8, at Silver Creek, 1:30 p.m.*

Oct. 15, Branham, 1:30 p.m.*

Oct. 21, Leland, 7:30 p.m.*

Oct. 28, Oak Grove, 7:30 p.m.*

Nov. 5, Piedmont Hills, 1:30 p.m.*

Nov. 10, at Leigh, 7 p.m.*

*Denotes Blossom Valley Athletic League
Hamilton Division game

Key Returners

Nick D'Antonio (5-10, 175), Sr., RB/DB

Ken Dorset (6-1, 190), Sr., TE

J.J. Goulden (6-0, 180), Sr., WR/DB

Eddie Hsieh (6-2, 190), Sr., TE/DE

C.J. Miller (6-0, 195), Sr., LB

Jon Silva (5-10, 180), Sr., RB/LB

Shaun Souza (5-10, 180), Sr., RB

Chris Foley (5-9, 195), Jr., QB

Eric Sanchez (6-0, 230), Jr., OL/DL