NORTHRIDGE SIGNS DEFENSIVE LINEMAN.

Byline: Marc J. Spears

Cal State Northridge signed San Bernardino Valley College defensive lineman Mario ``Mike'' Colunga to a scholarship agreement.

The 6-2, 295-pounder, who was also recruited by Nevada-Las Vegas, Florida A&M and James Madison, missed the last four games of the 1997 season because of a knee injury.

``It is close to home and I like the program, coaches and players,'' said Colunga, a Colton native who has two years of eligibility remaining. ``I wanted my mom and dad to be able to see me play.''

The Matadors have also received oral commitments from Hancock College defensive lineman Patrick Cwik (6-1, 260), Yucaipa High running back Alan Taylor (6-1, 260) and Serra High cornerback/wide receiver Quincy Watkins (5-8, 163). Also, CSUN coach Ron Ponciano said that redshirt freshman quarterback Chris Kobe will transfer to College of Canyons after this semester.