Football: Narbonne-Chaminade scrimmage shows why they will be top teams

Narbonne and Chaminade are certain preseason top 10 teams in Southern California, and both had their moments in a scrimmage on Thursday night at Chaminade.

Narbonne showed off a powerful run defense, led by lineman Dominic Peterson and linebacker Anthony Pandy. The only time Chaminade was able to get any kind of an effective ground attack was when the Eagles went to their power toss, and T.J. Pledger and Andrew Van Buren were forced to pick up tough yardage.

Chaminade’s defense hung tough with Narbonne’s no-huddle offense, producing three first-half turnovers that disrupted the Gauchos. Dallas Taylor-Cortez had a spectacular interception.

Narbonne quarterback Jalen Chatman, only a junior and taking over as the starter, was effective and calm under pressure. His line gave him time, and with standout receiver Tre Walker ready to go, that’s going to be a very successful duo. They connected for a touchdown in the first half.

Chaminade quarterback Brevin White struggled at times but got untracked at the outset of the third quarter. Most impressive was Chaminade’s backup quarterback, sophomore Ryan Stevens, who figures to earn some playing time. He’s left-handed and seems at ease and comfortable in the offense.

Each team scored two touchdowns with the first string, so you can call the scrimmage a draw.

What it means is both teams are primed to have very good seasons. Narbonne opens next Friday against Gardena Serra at El Camino College. Chaminade plays at Oaks Christian.

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