Reporter: Jazz Valadez Anaya
Editors: Rei Tedoco and Marvin Forbes
PHOENIX- On Oct.3, 2024, the Desert Ridge Jaguars (0-and-5) went head-to-head with division opponent the Cesar Chavez Champions (3-and-2).
Both teams were looking to add an important win to their records for week six after both taking a loss in week five. Since 2019, the Jaguars have come up on top over the Champions but in the fall 2024 season, the Jaguars fell 25-to-12 to the Champions.
The battle between the Champions and the Jaguars showed a relentless fight. Offensively Desert Ridge scored two touchdowns, with senior, Michael Alvarado and junior, Blake Julien. Julien made his season debut after sitting the first five games because of AIA transfer rules—each contributing to the scoreboard. Blake made an immediate impact in his first game for Desert Ridge, showcasing his potential for the rest of the season.
Defensively, the Jaguars fought hard, recording four sacks in the game with junior Andrew Hines having three of those. Sophomore Leonidas To'oto'o recorded the other one. A standout on the Jaguar defense was junior, Zander Fuentes making 10 total tackles, including two tackles for loss on Thursday night.
Leading the way for Cesar Chavez in their victory were sophomore, Mason Penrod and senior, Myles Johnson. Penrod delivered an outstanding performance, rushing for 66 yards and a touchdown on nine carries. Johnson added 43 yards and another touchdown. Highlighting his diverse abilities, Johnson not only shined on offense but made a significant defensive impact with seven total tackles, including one tackle for loss, and successfully defended a pass.
For week seven both teams have now entered their bye week, using the time to regroup and focus on improving their performance, as week eight of the season quickly approaches.
Both teams will hit the road for more divisional matchups in their upcoming games. The now 0-and-6 Jaguars will face Tolleson (1-and-5) on Friday, Oct. 18th at 7 PM, and it will be determined which struggling team will emerge with the victory. Tolleson hopes for their second and Desert Ridge aims to achieve its first.
As for the now 4-and-2 Champions, they take on Westwood (4-and-2) under the Thursday night lights once more on October 17th at 7 PM, hoping to continue their win streak.
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