It might be assumed the Roosevelt High School football team would take a step back this year after losing two-time All-City quarterback Jesse Diaz to graduation.

But that may not be the case, according to coach Javier Cid.

With Brandon Sifuentes, Diaz’ backup a year ago, moving into the starting spot and a veteran group of receivers and running backs surrounding the senior quarterback, the Rough Riders may be just as potent as a year ago when they went 10-3 and shared the Eastern League title with Jordan and Garfield.

The first chance to see if Cid is correct is Friday when Roosevelt hosts Alhambra in the opener.

“I feel the passing game is better than expected considering the loss of our three-year starting quarterback,” Cid said. “I feel the running game is going to be stronger than expected, as well.

“I think we’re going to be able to score a lot of points. My main concern is how well we defend the pass. That doesn’t mean I think we won’t get the job done. We’re just untested right now.”

Sifuentes eased any fears the coaching staff might have had with a strong summer in the passing leagues. Though not as big as the 6-foot-1, 205-pound Diaz, or the possessor of as strong an arm, he compensates with accuracy.

“He’s a good leader and he’s smart,” Cid adds.

A talented corps of receivers also helps.

Manny Ayon is a returning All-City performer and Tino Lomeli, also a returning starter, gives them a deep threat. Returnee Brian Torres and junior Jonathan Mariscal, MVP of the freshman team two years ago, are also in the rotation. Mariscal is the fastest of the receivers.

Additionally, running backs Jesse Lira and Elgin Rosales return with plenty of experience. Lira is a good receiver out of the backfield.

Cid likes what he has upfront.

Tackles Ramon Barraza (6-2, 260) and Angel Barrera (6-0, 245) anchor the line. Barraza is the first player Cid has coached who was invited to the Nike Combine, an invitation-only event for college prospects.

Chris Moreno (5-11, 300) moves from the defensive line to offensive guard. He moves well for his size, according to the coach. Zach Rivera (5-11, 245), a four-year varsity performer, is the center. He also starts on the defensive line and is the long snapper.

Ronnie Lazo, a converted linebacker, and William Linares are the defensive ends. Rivera and returning starter Jovanny Mejia are the tackles. Junior Jeffrey Simon and Jonathan Toledo add depth to the line.

Juniors Rene Garcia and Richard Martinez, who each had a couple of starts a year ago, are the outside backers. Filling the middle linebacker spot (previously held by All-City pick Rafael Ortega, now at NCAA Division II Minnesota-Crookston) will be either George Avila or Steven German.

Safety Armando Perez, who led the team in interceptions with three a year ago, is back to lead the secondary. Enrique Barragan and Kevin Rios are the other safety candidates.

Victor Gomez, Aaron Hernandez and Manuel Mendoza are the leaders for the cornerback spots.

“I think we’ll do just as well, if not better, than we did last year,” Cid said. “We’re definitely a playoff team. Jordan and Garfield are the two favorites in league. After that, it’s Huntington Park and Roosevelt. South East and Bell are right there, too.”