This week's defensive star of the week is ...

Jordan Winger, Foothill, senior, middle linebacker

Winger was all over the field Friday night, recording 20 tackles and recovering a fumble for the Knights (1-1) in their 21-6 victory over rival Tustin.

Winger was selected as the Sea View League player to watch in the preseason, and with performances like this, it is easy to see why. He was a first-team All-Sea View League performer last year as he recorded 122 tackles.

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First up is Mater Dei coach Bruce Rollinson

Last game: Mater Dei defeated Carson, 46-43, 3OT

Next up: vs. Cypress, Thursday at 7 p.m. at Santa Ana Stadium.

What were your thoughts on your defensive performance against Carson?
Going back over the game tape, I thought the defense played well. Carson ran the ball 54 times for 174 yards for a 3.2 per game. We have to get to work on eliminating the mistakes in the urgent situation. We gave up a third and 12 and a third four 14, so if we take those plays out, then everyone is talking about the defense. I’m not too worried about the defense, it will be fine.

Are you concerned about the running game? The ground game managed only 61 yards.
They (Carson) did a good job stacking the box against the run. We do need to run the ball more effectively and we spent time working on that. Needless to say in any football game, we’re going to do what it takes to win the game. We want to try and be balanced as possible.

What are your thoughts on Cypress?
This is another one of those games where I’m going in blind and very apprehensive. I have no idea what they’re going to do. I know they have a multiple offense, but I’m not sure where they’re going to hang their hat on against us (either running or passing). They’re very well-coached defense and I’m not sure how they are going to defend us. They’re a CIF champion with a lot of players coming back…We’ll have to be ready, but I like the fact that we have one game of experience (this season) and that should help us.

A lot was made about your inexperienced receivers coming into the season. But you had to pleased with they played in the opener against Carson.
I was pleased with how they responded. Obviously the more comfortable they get with the offense and the audible calls, the better served we’re going to be.

Any injury concerns heading in?
 We’re going to hold Chris Ward (offensive tackle) out. He’s been cleared, but we have to get in shape. We hope to have him ready for the Corona of Centennial game (Sept. 19). …Fullback and defensive end David Owens will play.