By Vincent PAGE

The Crescenta Valley High School varsity football team passed a big test on Friday night when it took on the John Muir Mustangs. Though Muir is not the team it once was, it still poses a challenge for the Falcons. But this year, the Falcons took care of business, winning decidedly by a final score of 38-8.

Prior to the game, the entire Muir team kneeled and locked arms at its 40-yard line during the national anthem. Crescenta Valley players were all present on the field with hands over their hearts, despite usually being in their locker room while the national anthem was played.

As soon as the game kicked off, it was CVHS that took control. The team started by dominating the ground game when running back Joe Suh toted the rock for two touchdowns in the first quarter. He would finish the game with 16 carries for 117 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

Eventually, junior quarterback Cole Doyle took over. While the Falcon defense continually punished the Muir offense, CV’s offense increased its lead every time players stepped on the field. Doyle completed 14 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns. He picked apart the Mustangs’ secondary and created problems for their front seven, running eight times for 39 times.

Wide receiver Tyler Lobianco continued to be the focal point of the passing game alongside tight end Austin Novak. Lobianco finished the game with four catches for 73 yards while also adding a long touchdown reception before the play was called back for a penalty. Novak continued being a threat up the middle of the field as well as along the sidelines. He brought in five receptions for 85 yards. Both players are Doyle’s favorite targets with senior wide receiver James Baek still unable to contribute on offense due to a broken thumb.

The Falcons now sit at 5-0 on the season. They have a schedule over the next few weeks that is very winnable starting with Pasadena on Friday. They then take on Burroughs and Burbank, which are both experiencing down years. However, both teams are extremely well coached and always bring a tough game for the Falcons.

While it is early to be thinking about CIF playoffs, this Falcons team looks like a true contender. It is currently ranked second in its playoff division, sitting behind Bishop Diego High School in the Southern Section Division 6 rankings.

In terms of a league championship, it looks more likely each week that Crescenta Valley will meet Arcadia High School for the Pacific League title in the final week of the season. Arcadia is currently 3-3 on the season, but 2-0 in Pacific League play. It has quickly proven itself as the best team in the Pasadena area.

This week, the Falcons take on the Pasadena High School Bulldogs on Friday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. at Pasadena.

  Vincent PAGE