Lewis, Moorpark Beat Santa Barbara at the Pass, 56-24

Quarterback Taj Lewis was the one who initially stole the spotlight in Saturday night’s Western State Conference game. But by game’s end there were plenty of Raiders who spent a few minutes basking in the glory of a 56-24 victory over previously unbeaten Santa Barbara (3-1).

Lewis threw three touchdown passes in the first half to start the Raiders in the right direction.

Lewis started dissecting the Vaquero secondary early.

The former Oxnard High product connected with George Jones on a 27-yard touchdown pass play two minutes into the game.

Lewis added his second touchdown toss when he hit Lawrence Lovett with a 30-yarder less than a minute into the second period.

Lewis’ third touchdown was a 30-yard strike to Leodes Van Buren.

He completed 11 of 19 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns.

Moorpark (3-1) led, 19-10, at halftime.

In the second half Moorpark’s ground game took center stage.

The Raiders chewed up the clock and scored three rushing touchdowns.

Moorpark finished with 371 yards rushing.

Ivan McRae had 70 yards in nine carries and scored on touchdown runs of one and 19 yards.

Moorpark’s defense also did its part.

The Raiders’ secondary limited Santa Barbara quarterback J.T. Stone to 211 yards on 21-of-40 passing.

Stone was averaging 355 yards per game.

Moorpark also had three interceptions and added a score when Bryant Durfee returned an interception 22 yards for touchdown in the fourth quarter.