Other local football matchups

WENDY PIERRO/Acorn Newspapers RUNNING MAN—Westlake High's Steve Hagy cuts through the Simi Valley defense during the Warriors' 34-10 Week 8 victory. Royal (3-5) at Agoura (3-5)

Outlook: If this were college, they'd probably call this matchup the What Could Have Been Bowl.

The Agoura Chargers have closely resembled the San Diego Chargers in recent weeks—a team with plenty of talent that can't figure out how to win close games.

In its past three games, AHS has lost by three, two and 11 points to fall completely out of the playoff picture.

Agoura's downfall came after a 3-1 start to the year.

Royal was quick to come out of the gates, too, but since going 31 in the first month of the regular season, the Highlanders have lost four straight.

At this point, these two teams are playing for pride.

Westlake (6-2) at Thousand Oaks (7-1)

Outlook: Friday night's atmosphere at Thousand Oaks High should be electric when the Westlake Warriors visit the T.O. Lancers in a game that carries potential league-title implications.

Both teams are 4-1 in Marmonte League play, one game behind Moorpark (5-0). TOHS lost to Moorpark in Week 7, while Westlake travels to MHS next weekend.

Facing Thousand Oaks head coach Mike Leibin, a longtime defensive coordinator for the Warriors, Westlake's Jim Benkert will try to establish a new Ventura County record for career coaching victories. Benkert is tied with former St. Bonaventure coach Jon Mack with 163 career wins.