"We're not real big," Osso said. "We don't have any 300-pounders. London is our biggest guy. But you can't measure heart, and these guys have heart."
Costa Mesa hopes to get production from guys who could end up playing big roles for the first time on the varsity level, including seniors D.J. Lepper and Asa Hawks, as well as sophomore Antwon Byrd.
Lepper is penciled in as the starting running back and Hawk could see action as well.
"We're high on Hawks, he'll play somewhere," Osso said. "He's finally buying in. He'll be on the field somewhere."
Lepper is hungry for varsity action after having to play on the junior varsity last year because he was a transfer from Estancia.
"He's dying to get out there," Osso said.
The 5-7, 160-pound Lepper is a shifty runner.
"I tell him not to cut too much," Osso said. "Eventually he has to run straight."
Byrd, a 6-1, 175-pounder, has the athleticism, but not the experience. He'll battle for time at receiver and defensive back.
Senior Kirkland Huynh was a starter at receiver last year, but is slated to play an even bigger role this season as the potential No. 1 option. Huynh (5-8, 153) is a slot receiver who will line up off the line of scrimmage. He'll also start at cornerback.
"He's small but has big heart and a great work ethic," Osso said.
Osso, who spent 10 years as an assistant coach, including stints at Costa Mesa, Estancia and Corona del Mar, said last year's junior varsity team went 7-3, so there should also be help from below.
"Those guys coming back and they are excited about football," Osso said.
