The San Benito Haybalers prepare for their first game of the season during Wednesday's practice. The 'Balers will open their 2008 campaign tonight, Friday, at Milpitas. Kick-off is at 7:30 p.m.
There's really not a whole lot more that can be said that hasn't been said already.
The San Benito Haybalers have been through countless camps, multiple practices and a handful of scrimmages.
Their first team dinner of the regular season has been digested, and now it's time to finally play some football.
The 'Balers will open with Milpitas tonight, Friday, at 7:30 p.m.
San Benito opened with the Trojans last year as well, and it was the big play that Milpitas managed to capitalize on.
In the first quarter, for instance, Trojan Charles Satchell returned a punt 97 yards to paydirt, and Milpitas never trailed, winning 35-12.
This year, head coach Chris Cameron is expecting another speedy team.
"Athletically, they're as good as any team in the section, without a doubt," Cameron said. "A lot of speed and athleticism. Good size kids. Big on the perimeter. Speed and athleticism."
Cameron highlighted the Trojans' inside linebacker, saying he has one of the "best motors" he's seen in a high school football player in the last five years.
"This is a very talented, athletic team," said Cameron of Milpitas. "We've done everything we can do as a coaching staff to get our kids ready to play. Are we going there to win the game or just going to show up, that's what we've got to find out."
Junior Kyle Vallejo will start at quarterback for San Benito after Trevor Fabing suffered a hip-pointer injury last week.
"Kyle looks like he's developing," Cameron said. "We'll find out tonight."
Andrew Matheson Andrew Matheson is a sports writer for South Valley Newspapers. He can be reached at 831-637-5566 ext. 334 or at amatheson@svnewspapers.com.
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