Davis, Pierson Provide Oxnard’s Groundwork

Desmond Davis and Chad Pierson propel the Oxnard High offense like jet engines, a relentless tandem thrusting their team forward until the end zone is reached.

Davis, a fleet senior tailback, is a threat to break off a long gain every time he turns the corner. He has rushed for 1,477 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging 7.2 yards.

Pierson, a punishing senior fullback, is all churning knees and determination. He has rushed for 968 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 7.6 yards.

Together, the duo of three-year starters form Oxnard’s answer to Notre Dame’s Justin Fargas in a Southern Section Division III quarterfinal tonight at Oxnard.

Fargas, with 2,340 yards rushing, is regarded by some as the nation’s best high school back. But Davis and Pierson have outgained Fargas by 105 yards, and Oxnard has outrushed Notre Dame, 2,749 yards to 2,605.

“I’m pretty fired up about finally getting to meet the so-called man,” Davis said. “I’ve read all about him all year long. I’d like to let the folks know there is another back in town.”

Davis and Fargas also play defensive back and Pierson plays linebacker, so they are on a collision course to get acquainted.

Davis is the reigning Ventura County 100-meter champion with a personal best of 10.78. If anyone is going to catch Fargas from behind, it’s him.

“He’s big and fast, he’ll be tough to catch and tough to bring down,” Davis said.

With Oxnard, Davis (5 feet 9 and 180 pounds) is tough to catch and Pierson (6-1, 225) is tough to bring down.

“Teams can’t really key on either one of us,” Pierson said.

Pierson, serious and mature, complements Davis’ carefree personality. When Davis begins to wander, Pierson quickly points him in the right direction--upfield.

“Desmond has that one quality everybody wants, great speed,” said Wes Morimune, Oxnard’s coach. “But mentally, it’s like a coin flip. There are moments Desmond has it and moments he doesn’t.

“With Chad, you never have to worry. He’s our leader on offense and defense.”

In their first-round victory over Lompoc, Pierson got the Yellowjackets going by dashing 73 yards on the first play from scrimmage. He finished with 190 yards rushing and Davis had 101.

Davis, who has recruiting trips scheduled to Utah, Brigham Young and Nevada Las Vegas, has been held under 95 yards rushing only once in 11 games. As for Pierson, he is also a receiving threat with 12 catches for 227 yards.

“Either one of us can have a big day,” Davis said. “And if we both have a big day, that’s the ultimate.”