Football Preview: Laurel Spartans vs. California Trojans
After two games on the road, Laurel is heading back home. They and the California Trojans are set to duel on Friday. Given that the two teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this contest.
Laurel is probably headed into the match with a chip on their shoulder considering Neshannock just ended the team's five-game winning streak on Friday. They came up short against the Lancers, falling 27-7. The Spartans have struggled against the Lancers recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost matchup.
Tyler Shearer put forth a good effort for the losing side as he picked up 151 receiving yards. He also deserves a shoutout for his performance on D, picking up a sack and making three total tackles.
Meanwhile, California unfortunately witnessed the end of their six-game winning streak on Friday. They were just a hair shy of victory and fell 28-27 to Jefferson-Morgan.
Despite their defeat, California saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Vincent Manzella, who picked up 105 receiving yards and two touchdowns, was perhaps the best of all. The bulk of those receiving yards came from one huge play: a catch that gained an incredible 80 yards. The team also got some help courtesy of Lee Qualk, who rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown on only 14 carries.
Even if they lost, California's defense still kept up the pressure with five sacks. Leading the way was Niko Georgagis with three. Georgagis is also crushing it when it comes to total tackles: he's made at least six every time he's taken the field this season.
Laurel's loss dropped their record down to 5-5. As for California, their defeat dropped their record down to 7-3.
Laurel strolled past California when the teams last played back in September of 2019 by a score of 15-0. Will Laurel repeat their success, or does California have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
