Football: City Section teams face challenge from Southern Section
Receiver excels on field and in classroom
It’s not going to be an easy week for top teams from the City Section set to play top teams from the Southern Section. But they should be ready to offer plenty of competition. Here’s a look at Friday’s big City vs. Southern Section clashes:
Oaks Christian (2-0) at Venice (1-1): Oaks Christian’s offense, led by quarterback Brandon Dawkins and running back D.J. Riggins, has put up 51 and 57 points in wins over Bakersfield and Upland. Venice’s defense has to be able to play a complete game and not just do well one half. Venice has its own offensive firepower with quarterback Alexander Diamont and running back Alijah Lee. The key for Venice is to be able to play 48 minutes and not get worn down.
Loyola (1-1) vs. Crenshaw (0-1) at Mission Viejo: Crenshaw has had two weeks to prepare for the Cubs after a close loss to Long Beach Poly. Stopping Loyola’s running game is Crenshaw’s main task. Nico Evans ran well last week in a win over Lakewood. Crenshaw’s speed on offense should produce some points and look for quarterback Ajene Harris to throw deep.
Dorsey (1-0) vs. Santa Margarita (0-2) at Aliso Niguel: It could be a long night for the Dons. Santa Margarita is not feeling good after close losses to Bishop Amat and Bishop Gorman. The Eagles’ passing combo of QB K.J. Costello and receiver Kyle Sweet must be stopped. Dorsey’s offensive and defensive lines have to have big games for the Dons to stay close.
Narbonne (2-0) at Alemany (2-0): Running back Johnell Jackson gave a boost to Narbonne’s offense with 175 yards rushing against Gahr. He’ll need another strong performance to take pressure off sophomore quarterback Roman Ale, who was intercepted three times. Alemany quarterback Alif Grayes has made a smooth transition to starter with 501 yards passing in two games. The Warriors’ offense will face an aggressive, physical Narbonne defense.
Mater Dei (2-0) at Carson (0-1): Mater Dei’s offensive line keeps getting better, and that means big trouble for the Colts. Give quarterback Chase Forrest and running back Justin Allen some blocking and they’ll do the rest. Carson struggled in a loss to Fresno Edison and will need big improvement.
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