UPDATE: In a stunning display of power, the De La Salle Spartans overwhelmed San Ramon Valley with a decisive 42-0 victory in the North Coast Section (NCS) Open/Division I playoff game held on November 10, 2023. Just three weeks after a crushing seven-touchdown win against the same team, this rematch showcased the Spartans’ dominance and left no doubt about their championship aspirations.
The game kicked off with immediate excitement as Jaden Jefferson electrified the crowd by returning the opening kickoff 53 yards. After a brief setback with a false start, Duece Jones-Drew, returning from injury, sprinted for a 30-yard touchdown, putting De La Salle ahead just moments into the match.
By halftime, the Spartans had extended their lead to four touchdowns, firmly establishing their control over the game. With a flawless execution, they scored touchdowns on four of their first five possessions. The standout moment came when Emery Speight caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from Brayden Knight, followed quickly by Jefferson, who dashed 53 yards for another touchdown, showcasing his status as the state’s 100-meter champion.
The scoring continued in the second half with Jefferson adding a 35-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 35-0 with 8:14 left in the third quarter. Jack Dimalanta capped off the scoring with a 7-yard run later in the game, leaving San Ramon Valley reeling.
Despite De La Salle’s offensive fireworks, the defense also shone brightly. Cameron Shepherd intercepted a San Ramon Valley pass in the end zone, quelling their best scoring opportunity late in the fourth quarter.
This victory not only improved De La Salle’s record against San Ramon Valley to 27-0-1 but also maintained their impeccable streak of 282-0-1 against NCS opponents since a loss to Pittsburg in 1991. The Spartans, now 11-0 for the season, are on track to pursue their 33rd consecutive section title.
Looking ahead, De La Salle will face off against either second-seeded Pittsburg or seventh-seeded Liberty in the upcoming championship game, with the loser of that match dropping to the section’s Division I final the following weekend. As the Spartans prepare for this next challenge, their focus remains unwavering: they are determined to continue their legacy of excellence in Northern California high school football.
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage as De La Salle aims for another title, showcasing the resilience and talent that have defined their storied program.