Jeremy Brion

College: Saddleback

Sport: Football

Position: Defensive Back

Class: Sophomore

Brion attended California on a football scholarship after graduating from Capistrano Valley High School, but after a year he decided to return home partly because the Golden Bears wanted him to switch to linebacker.

Brion, bolstered by a year of experience in a Division I program, is having an outstanding season for the Gauchos.

He had two interceptions and recovered a fumble as Saddleback beat Orange Coast, 17-12, to remain the top-ranked team in the nation. He also saved a touchdown with a tackle.

It was the second time this season that Brion has intercepted two passes in a game and his total of eight is tops in the state.

Other top performers:

Dietrich Jewell, who scored six goals in two games as Golden West won the South Coast Conference water polo tournament.

Chris Ruperto, who rushed for 155 yards and scored two touchdowns to help Rancho Santiago to a 20-18 victory over Riverside.