Kennedy’s Rout of Monroe Resembles Work of Science

With 15 formations, receivers rarely lining up in the same spot and misdirection plays galore, Kennedy High’s spread offense looks more complicated than a chemistry exam.

It’s no wonder players were trying to memorize plays an hour before Friday night’s Valley Mission League opener against Monroe.

They passed the test.

The Golden Cougars (5-0-1) scored on seven of their first nine possessions and cruised to a 52-26 victory at Kennedy.

Jerome Williams rushed for 143 yards and scored three touchdowns, James Norris rushed for 113 yards and scored one touchdown, and Efren Lopez caught touchdown passes of 35 and 58 yards from Adam Geery.

Kennedy was even holding back some plays in anticipation of its showdown with Sylmar next week.

Preparing to defend Kennedy’s offense is a nightmare. And how about the players who must learn to run it?

“We study all the time,” guard Robert Avina said.

Added Coach Bob Francola: “I don’t want to ever hear how a City school’s offense can’t be complicated.”

Crucial to Kennedy’s success is an offensive line that has allowed two sacks in six games. Geery finally was tackled behind the line by Monroe and immediately fumbled.

“I sure don’t like it,” Francola said. “I hope we don’t have to deal with it again.”

The only times Kennedy was stopped in the first half was on two fumbles. The Golden Cougars led, 38-12.

Kennedy’s secondary struggled at times against the tall receivers from Monroe (0-6).

James Buxton completed 10 of 26 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns.

Lopez caught six passes for 139 yards and had 38 yards in three carries for Kennedy.