Canyon's J.J. DiLuigi vs. Hart's Delano Howell

What a terrific showcase tonight should be for Canyon’s J.J. DiLuigi and Hart’s Delano Howell, two of California’s top running backs who go head to head in the Foothill League opener at 7:30 tonight at College of the Canyons.

Howell already has scored 20 touchdowns in six games, chasing DiLuigi’s 2005 league record of 43. DiLuigi, who rushed for nearly 1,900 yards last season, is again solid this year with 658 yards, 17 receptions and eight touchdowns; Howell has 716 yards and 22 receptions, and he’s also averaging 50 yards per kick return, including a 95-yard touchdown.

Both figure to be on the run in a big way tonight, and there’s a good chance the top performer can lead his team to victory, as Hart (3-3) looks to end a three-game series losing streak to Canyon (3-2), which defeated the Indians 21-13 in December in the Southern Section Div. II championship in Carson.

Howell and DiLuigi are very fast breakaway types who combine open-field speed with impressive strength and power.

There are a lot more similarities than differences.

“They have different styles but they’re similar, too. They both good players,� Hart quarterback Alex Pettee said. “There’s going to be big attention on both running backs during the game.�

Who’s better? Perhaps tonight will be the test.

“I’m not comparing myself to anybody,� Howell said. “I just run hard and try to keep my legs moving and just use the ability that God gave me.�

Canyon linebacker Blake McMartin admitted that stopping Howell is part of the game plan.

“Oh, it’s a big part,� McMartin said. “He’s a key player and a real good athlete.�

Naturally, their teammates favored their own.

“Watching films, Howell looks like a real good runner, but honestly I think J.J. is a lot tougher,� Canyon offensive lineman Marc Valdez said. “J.J. runs over people, and I haven’t seen Delano do that.�

Hart receiver/defensive back Brandon Arndt likes Howell.

“He’s amazing. He can do anything, play any position,� Arndt said. “J.J. was good last year, and he looks just as good this year, but I wouldn’t want any other running back on my team. I’d want Delano.�

Top running backs J.J. DiLuigi of Canyon and Delano Howell of Hart go head to head tonight at College of the Canyons. Here’s how they compare:

Delano Howell, Hart

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