Casa Grande only led Montgomery by one point at halftime in the North Coast semifinals, so it did the logical thing -- turned to running back/linebacker John Porchivina.

Porchivina helped Casa Grande finish with a flourish, as he wrapped up the night with five touchdowns -- four on the ground and one on an 80-yard interception return -- in a 42-13 Gaucho victory.

"We were never down, but Montgomery was tough," Porchivina told the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat. "It made for a fun game. We just lit a fire under us and got after it."

Porchivina often ignited the Gauchos this season as he rushed for 1,681 yards and 20 touchdowns, caught 24 passes for 321 yards and five scores, averaged 6.2 tackles per game, sacked the QB 11 times, intercepted three passes, recovered one fumble and caused four fumbles.

His excellence paid dividends, as a week before Christmas he committed to Fresno State.

Said Porchivina on Twitter: "Officially committed to Fresno State. Thanks to all who made this happen!" #fresnostate #bulldogs

Also considered: JaJuan Lawson, QB, Casa Grande; Logan Francavilla, RB, Montgomery.

Lawson completed 145-of-215 passes for 2,203 yards and 23 touchdowns, with just two interceptions to lead Casa Grande to the NCS Division II title game.

Also considered: Logan Francavilla, RB, Montgomery.

Franco rushed 109 times for 920 yards and six touchdowns. He also caught 10 passes for 176 yards and two scores. On defense Franco averaged 2.4 tackles per game and had one fumble recovery.

Mefferd completed 95-of-186 passes for 1,525 yards and 23 touchdowns with 14 interceptions. He also rushed 21 times for 94 yards and one touchdown.