Tucson's football might rests with three schools primarily this season -- again. Three 4A-I squads - defending state champ Canyon del Oro, Sabino and Cienega.

Sabino (5-0) has clear sailing to a 9-0 record come Nov. 5 when it hosts Sonoran Region rival CDO. If CDO (5-0)navigates Saguaro on the road Friday, the Dorados most likely will be 9-0 on Nov. 5 as well.

Cienega (4-1) barring a huge letdown in any of its remaining five games, should finish 9-1. Tucson will be well-represented in the 4A-I playoffs.

How are they managing to stay on top in the Old Pueblo?

CDO and Cienega have dynamic quarterback-running back combinations. CDO running back Ka'Deem Carey and quarterback Jason McBryayer; Cienega quarterback Jordan Mills and running back Willie Willis. Sabino goes all out with the ground game led somewhat modestly by Mike Pineiro. Six Sabino backs have rushed for 100 yards or more. Pinerio's 446 tops that list. The Sabercats don't have a single receiver with 100 yards receiving to date.

All three schools are averaging 40 points a game or more. More than enough offense. CDO and Sabino are giving up 10 points a game or less. Cienega is allowing a slightly higher total per game, but has played a bit tougher schedule to date (Ironwood Ridge, Cactus Shadows). CDO's schedule will have been a tad tougher after Friday's night's game  with Saguaro (Ironwood Ridge, Queen Creek, Saguaro). Their defenses are more than adequate.

It's good that Tucson schools have battled the likes of Cactus Shadows, Queen Creek and soon Saguaro in the regular season. Those 4A Desert Sky teams are a good bet, along with Apache Junction, to be filling the 4A-I playoff bracket come Nov. 12 along with CDO, Cienega and Sabino.  

Amphitheater and wiley coach Vern Friedli may make some noise in the 4A-II ranks. But if you're putting down any kind of bets in the postseason you should place them with CDO, Sabino or Cienega.