Sierra Canyon (D-III) and Crespi (D-IV) are in different Southern Section divisions. But their programs are comparable in historical talent, both have the weight of history and expectations, and each team can believe this nonleague game can be a valuable measuring stick entering the second half of their 2018 seasons.
After a stumbling start, the Trailblazers (4-2) have won four straight games and looked in sync and impressive in their 31-7 thumping of Bakersfield last week. Sophomore Chayden Peery, who has thrown for 1,503 yards and six touchdowns (against three interceptions) appears to be settling in at quarterback and has a wealth of receivers to pass to.
The Celts (3-2) have built their winning record from beating City Section teams — including El Camino Real, 26-23, last week. But more importantly, they get another fresh start by moving out of the power-laden Mission League and into the Angelus League, which could propel them to their first overall winning season since 2014.
The kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., at Pierce College.
Other games involving Valley area teams:
Friday, Sept. 28
East Valley League
Arleta at North Hollywood
Poly at Chavez
Verdugo Hills at Monroe
Mission League
Bishop Amat at Chaminade
Loyola at Alemany
Serra at Notre Dame
Olympic League
Heritage Christian at Valley Christian
Village Christian vs. Whittier Christian, Whittier College
Valley Mission League
Kennedy at Reseda
San Fernando at Canoga Park
Sylmar at Panorama
West Valley League
Birmingham at Granada Hills
Chatsworth at El Camino Real
Cleveland at Taft
Nonleague
Campbell Hall at Vazquez
St. Genevieve at Agoura
Saturday, Sept. 29
Del Rey League
St. Anthony at Harvard-Westlake, 7:30 p.m.
All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise indicated.