The game between Taft and Chatsworth on Friday, Oct. 17, will not eliminate either from the West Valley League race. But it can eliminate any lingering doubts of how worthy each team is as a contender in the upcoming City Section Division I and II playoffs.
The Chancellors (5-1) have been impressive early; their latest victory was against previously unbeaten Cleveland, and the only loss was to a strong Golden Valley team out of Santa Clarita. Chatsworth likes the physical game with lots of running behind a strong, veteran line. But there is also a new quarterback, sophomore Tyger Goslin, who figures to expand the Chancellor’s ability to pass.
Taft (3-3) appears to be coming on strong after wins against Fairfax of Los Angeles, and Granada Hills. Quarterback Chris Duncan, a junior, continues to grow in confidence and has a talented group of receivers to throw to, including Jahlil Lipkin, Jerrick Corley and Dalton Oronoz. The Toreadors’ collective speed has to counter the Chancellors’ brawn.
The kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Chatsworth.
Other games this week involving Valley-area teams:
Friday, Oct. 17
East Valley League
Chavez at Monroe
Grant at Verdugo Hills
Poly at Arleta, 2:15 p.m.
Mission League
Crespi at Notre Dame
Chaminade at La Puente Bishop Amat
Los Angeles Loyola at Alemany
Olympic League
Pasadena Maranatha vs. Village Christian, Occidental College
Valley Mission League
Canoga Park at Panorama
Kennedy at Van Nuys
Reseda at San Fernando
West Valley League
Birmingham at Cleveland
El Camino Real at Granada Hills
Nonleague
Sierra Canyon at Bishop
Saturday, Oct. 18
Santa Fe League
San Pedro Mary Star of the Sea at St. Genevieve
All games are at 7 p.m. unless otherwise indicated.