RedHawks ready to defend league title

By Ramon Scott
Updated: August 21, 2019

2019 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE REDHAWKS PREVIEW

Last year: 8-4.

Head coach: BERNARD VANN (5th year, 20-22)

2018: The RedHawks had a three-game winning streak, then a five-game winning streak, including a first-round Division V playoff win, 28-7, over Army-Navy. On Homecoming, Mountain Empire defeated rival Holtville, to ensure the Manzanita League championship.

OUTLOOK: MARCUS SMITH had a big contribution in the playoffs for the RedHawks. The junior looks to be an impact player this season at wide receiver and linebacker. JERICHO BRENNAN, a free safety, is a top returning defender, while DILLYNN MCMILLAN leads the linemen, along with ANTONIO ARCE and EFRAIN PENUELAS. Mountain Empire should be expected to compete for a possible top-four seed in the Division V postseason.

Schedule: The RedHawks will play their first four games at home, including the opener against Santana and a rematch with Army-Navy in Week 4. Two of the three league games are on the road, including the Holtville game. Senior Night is Oct. 25 against Calipatria.

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