Football: Garrett knows Crenshaw defense needs work

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Is there a defensive coordinator in the house at Crenshaw?

The top-ranked Cougars have allowed an average of 35.5 points in their first two games. They gave up 487 yards rushing against Norco on Friday during a 47-44 shootout victory.

Yes, there was another fourth-down stop that helped Crenshaw pull out a second consecutive nailbiter, but the Cougars probably won’t go unbeaten the rest of the season and secure a berth in a CIF state championship bowl game unless their defense stiffens.

‘We’ve got a lot of work to do,’ Crenshaw Coach Robert Garrett said. ‘A lot of work to do.’

One factor that could make Crenshaw’s offense more prolific is the return of standout tailback DeAnthony Thomas, who was sidelined by a sprained ankle Friday and has sat out the Cougars’ last six quarters. Could he return Friday against Fontana Miller?

‘I don’t know,’ Garrett said. ‘However he feels. He’s walking better. It’s up to him. If he doesn’t feel like it, we won’t use him. So it’s not that important.’

--Ben Bolch

--Crenshaw junior defensive lineman James Brock attempts to wrap up Norco running back Deantre Lewis on Friday night during Crenshaw’s 47-44 victory. Photo courtesy of Robert Helfman.