HIGH SCHOOL NOTEBOOK

Quartz Hill has one of the better rushing defenses in the region, allowing 111 yards per game. But that average figures to increase in the next two weeks against two of the region’s top running backs.

Friday, the Rebels (2-2) play Valencia (3-1) and Manuel White, who has rushed for 848 yards and 10 touchdowns this season.

Next week, Quartz Hill opens Golden League play against defending champion Littlerock (3-1) and Rodney Woods, who has rushed for 630 yards and nine touchdowns in three games.

“It’s going to be a challenge,” Rebel Coach Pat Degnan said.

The challenge will be tougher without top defensive lineman and fullback Joe Lopez, who must sit out Friday after being ejected last week against Saugus.

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Three Golden League running backs are on pace to rush for more than 1,000 yards.

Woods leads the league despite sitting out two weeks ago because of a separated shoulder.

Derrick Teal of Quartz Hill has rushed for 523 yards and six touchdowns and Tony Ortiz of Lancaster has gained 472 yards and three touchdowns.

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Antelope Valley may be 0-4, but the Antelopes have reason to be optimistic about the future.

Johnny Walker is tearing up the freshman level.

Walker, the cousin of Tony Walker, The Times’ 1996 Valley defensive player of the year at Antelope Valley, scored four touchdowns last week against Dominguez.

The Antelopes are using Walker at defensive back, receiver, quarterback and running back.