HS FOOTBALL: Desert Christian draws line in sand

Desert Christian never won a playoff game until last season, and this year the small school from Lancaster is performing even better. The Knights (10-2) have made it to the Northeast Division semifinals, facing Salesian (10-2) at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Lancaster High.

Desert Christian qualified in dramatic fashion by defeating top-seeded, defending champion Bishop 14-7.

"This is the best Desert Christian team in history. It's the furthest we've ever gone," Desert Christian coach Israel Ifeanychukwu said. "We're very happy with the direction we're headed."

Desert Christian is the epitome of a High Desert program, relying on smash-football and hard-nosed defense, as the Knights did not attempt a pass in the win over Bishop. Chance Guspeth and Kiel Alcarez have both rushed for more than 1,100 yards this season.
Salesian (10-2) is the total opposite. The Mustangs average 45 points and 448 yards total offense, and Jihad Vercher has passed for nearly 3,000 yards.