PREP FOOTBALL GAMES AT A GLANCE

University (0-0) vs. No. 7 Irvine (0-0)

7 TONIGHT IRVINE HIGH

After losing last season’s opener, 35-7, University hopes to close the gap between the programs. It won’t be easy. Irvine will replace departed running back Dave Doomey (now at Santa Margarita) with a committee of tailbacks, including Martin Rovira, the leading rusher in nonleague games a year ago. Calvary Chapel transfers Keith Short (DB/RB/WR), who has committed to UCLA, and Josh Short (FB/TE) could also have an impact in the backfield. Mike Ricci is making his varsity coaching debut after leading last year’s junior varsity to a 9-0-1 record, including a victory over the Mater Dei sophomore team.

KEY PLAYERS

University

RB/DB Colin Cavannaugh

5-9, 180, Sr.

NG Frankie Gamboa

6-9, 200, Sr.

LB Jimmy Owen

6-3, 225, Sr.

Irvine

QB Mike Ricci

5-8, 160, Sr.

RB Martin Rovira

5-9, 170, Sr.

WR James Whitted

6-2, 190, Sr.