By Vincent PAGE

The Crescenta Valley High School varsity football team was out to make a statement on Friday night. After a disappointing defeat at the hands of the Burbank Bulldogs, 37-20 on Oct. 20, the Falcons wanted to prove they’re still a threat when it comes to CIF playoffs, along with being contenders for the Pacific League championship.

And prove it they did when they neatly beat the Glendale Nitros 50-7.

Now if the Falcons can pull out a win tonight, Thursday, against Arcadia High School, they still have a chance for that title. And if Burbank loses to Burroughs on Friday in their rivalry game, they would share the Pacific League crown with CVHS.

The Falcons may have a tough time with their part, as Arcadia sits at 6-3 on the year, including losses to three elite teams in Cathedral, Hart and Burbank. They have become more competitive each year, and are hoping 2017 is the year they can end their current five-year losing streak against the Falcons.

The game will feature two different types of quarterbacks. Arcadia brings out 6’2” senior lefty Max Davila, who has thrown for 17 touchdowns and nearly 1,400 yards while only being picked off three times. He’s not the biggest threat on the ground, but his arm is impressive.

The Falcons will have Cole Doyle running the offense. Nearly six inches shorter than Davila, Doyle is the definition of a dual threat quarterback. He has thrown for 1,329 yards and 19 touchdowns with five passes intercepted. The ground is where he really dominates however, as he has gained 675 yards while also leading the team in touchdown runs with nine.

The Falcons and Apaches face off with major implications for both teams (Arcadia is still in the playoff hunt as well) at 7 p.m. at Moyse Field. It will also be the Falcons’ Senior Recognition Night for the players, pep squad and band members.

  Vincent PAGE