Torrance, CA – Narbonne’s defense came to play on Friday night at El Camino College. Led by its standout linebackers Raymond Scott, Darien Butler and Julian Lewis, the Gauchos were able to contain a Crenshaw offense that was averaging 40 points a game.
All three linebackers are returning starters and two are four-year starters. They locked down Crenshaw en route to a 48-7 victory and their first L.A. City Section Open Division title.
“We have some weapons, we could run or throw,” Narbonne coach Manny Douglas said. “Our strength is our defense. Those linebackers are specimen, they know what they are doing.”
Douglass said they coach on the field and make adjustments, including telling the coaches what to run.
“They talk about what we need to do and make suggestions to us,” Douglas said. “We are just smart enough not to get in the way.”
The No.1 seeded Gauchos won their fourth straight city title and six out of the last seven. In addition, Douglas earned his eighth title overall.
After a Crenshaw punt, Narbonne quarterback Jalen Chatman connected with Steve Jenkins for a 28-yard touchdown to give the Gauchos an early 7-0 lead in the first quarter.
Narbonne running back was Jermar Jefferson scored three touchdowns in the second quarter and had 133 yards by halftime.
“Our line did a great job of moving them,” Douglas said. “Jemar Jefferson did a great job reading blocks, running head up and making plays.”
The Gauchos defense held Crenshaw to seven points and forced seven punts, including two interceptions. The Cougars 6-4 wide receiver Rayshawn Williams was limited to two receptions for 36 yards.
“I feel blessed after winning my first city championship as a freshman and then winning all four years,” Scott said. “Our objective was to shut down their passing game along with the running game and we did that.”
After Crenshaw got on the board, Narbonne put the game out of reach with Jenkins’ 61-yard touchdown reception. Any hopes Crenshaw had of coming back were dashed with a flick of the wrist by Chatman.
The Rutgers commit completed 18-of-26 passes for 245 yards and four touchdowns. Jenkins finished with five receptions for 135 yards and two touchdowns.
“This one feels really good,” Douglas said. “The development of the team and their success is something I’m really proud of.”
Jefferson finished with 187 yards on 21 carries and three touchdowns.
“We were disciplined and the O-line blocked great,” Jefferson said. “This feels great. It’s my first one.”
