Excitement builds in the San Gabriel Valley as high school football teams gear up for crucial matchups on Thursday, October 26, 2023. Among the most anticipated games are Charter Oak visiting Bonita and Northview facing off against West Covina, both contests carrying significant implications for league standings.
Charter Oak vs. Bonita: A Clash for the Sierra League Title
At 19:00 local time, Charter Oak (8-1, 4-0) will take on Bonita (6-3, 4-0) in a decisive battle for the Sierra League title. Last season, Bonita triumphed over Charter Oak with a commanding 49-21 victory, but this year’s contest promises to be different. Charter Oak enters the game with momentum, having won five consecutive matches, largely due to the impressive performance of quarterback Corin Berry, a Purdue University commit. Berry has amassed 1,794 yards and 21 touchdowns this season, supported by a strong receiving corps including Antonio Reasby, Christian Alarcon, and Jerry Rojo.
In contrast, Bonita’s season has been marred by injuries, particularly the loss of star running back Joseph Lara due to a torn ACL. Despite this setback, the Bearcats have shown resilience, with quarterback Travis Lippert finding his rhythm after recovering from an ankle injury. The Bearcats’ defense has been formidable, allowing only 14 points or fewer in their last seven games. The question remains: Can Bonita assert physical dominance once again, or will Charter Oak’s improved lineup secure a different outcome?
Northview Aims for League Title Against West Covina
Northview (7-3, 3-1) faces West Covina (7-3, 4-0) at 19:00, where the stakes are equally high. Northview’s hopes of sharing the Valle Vista League title hinge on a victory after a surprising loss to Alta Loma last week. The Vikings had previously enjoyed a strong season, highlighted by a notable win over La Serna. Northview will rely on quarterback Robert Lucero and receiver Jaishon Bledshoe, especially with star receiver Isaiah Lucero’s status uncertain due to an injury.
West Covina has emerged as a surprise contender, winning close games against tough opponents, including a narrow victory over Diamond Ranch last week, which helped them clinch at least a share of the league title. Junior quarterback Elvis Irvin has been a standout performer, surpassing 1,000 yards passing with 12 touchdowns. The Bulldogs also excel in their ground game, averaging 227 yards per game, led by top rusher Moses Gogue.
El Monte Looks to Secure Mission Valley League Title
In another key matchup, El Monte (7-2, 5-0) hosts Gabrielino (7-2, 4-1) at 19:00. El Monte aims to claim the Mission Valley League title outright after a series of impressive performances, including a 41-7 victory against Arroyo earlier this season. Quarterback Alex Aleman stands out with 2,198 yards and 20 touchdowns, while running back Aaron Rivera has added 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns to the Lions’ offensive arsenal.
Gabrielino, despite facing challenges, has the potential to share the league title with a win. However, their recent performance, including a surprising 35-10 loss to Arroyo, raises questions about their consistency. The Eagles will look to quarterback Ely Loban and running back Alijah Shepard to lead their offensive efforts.
As the teams prepare for these pivotal matchups, fans across the San Gabriel Valley can expect an evening filled with intense competition and high stakes.