The Poly football team began Moore League games with two sizable wins over Cabrillo and Wilson High Schools after a 2-1 record in the preseason.
The Jackrabbits started their Moore League opener at Wilson High School against the Bruins. In front of a sell-out crowd, the Jackrabbits and Bruins continued the long-standing city rivalry. The Bruins held a close score through two quarters, but Poly pulled away late in the game to win 67-30.
To much surprise, the Bruins took an early 7-0 lead after an interception by junior quarterback Nolan McDonald. Sophomore running back Michael Mauai swiftly answered with a 15-yard touchdown to put the Jackrabbits in front 8-7. Senior quarterback Malik Henry ran in a touchdown and threw a touchdown pass to senior receiver Jack Jones to keep Poly ahead.
Entering halftime, the team had a close 20-14 lead over the Bruins.
The Jackrabbits commanded the game in the second half, outscoring the Bruins 47-16. The points included two more touchdown receptions from Jones, and sophomore return specialist Malachi Tolliver’s two kickoff return touchdowns. This was Tolliver’s first varsity game, after being moved from JV. Jones continued his All-American season totaling 7 receptions for 160 yards and 3 touchdowns against the Bruins.
Junior linebacker Josh Brown had another strong defensive performance this season, with 13 tackles and 2 tackles for loss against Wilson. Other Jackrabbits contributed to the stout defense, including senior defensive lineman Jason Nettles totaling five sacks and senior safety De’Andre Pierce with one sack. Brown credits his performances against Cabrillo and Wilson to his other defensive teammates
Through the season, the team utilizes a two-quarterback system, giving McDonald and Henry equal playing time. McDonald finished the night with 5/9 passing for 130 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception, while senior quarterback Malik Henry completed 8 of 15 passes, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception.
On October 2, the Jackrabbits won their home opener in convincing fashion against the Cabrillo Jaguars 73-7. The team has started a new tradition of wearing all black to the homecoming game, this year was no different.
Despite two blowout games against league opponents, players know there is much to improve.
“We have to play better against De La Salle,”
The team is preparing for the next league game against Compton, but also looking forward to the De La Salle game in Northern California. The football powerhouses have faced twice before, with De La Salle winning both games.
Many teams have struggled stopping the heavy rushing attack the De La Salle offense features.
“We need to tackle every guy that moves,” said Jones. The team will face more Moore League opponents after De La Salle.
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