HS FOOTBALL: Westlake clinches Marmonte title with win over St. Bonnie

MOORPARK -- For two months Westlake High had coasted to a series of easy football victories, winning its past eight games by 21 points or more.

On Thursday, the Warriors knew they would be in for a challenge against high-powered St. Bonaventure in the Marmonte League finale, and Westlake rose to the occasion with 35-14 victory before a crowd of about 6,000 at Moorpark College.

Entering No. 1 in the Northern Division, Westlake (10-0) clinched the league title outright and kept its perfect record intact while all but assuring the top seed in the playoffs when pairings are announced Sunday. Also, Westlake kept its chances alive to participate in a CIF State Bowl game if the Warriors can win the section final with four playoff victories.

Westlake's Dashon Hunt rushed for 184 yards on 17 carries, scoring two touchdowns including a 70-yard run, and he also had three catches for 34 yards and several key hits on defense. Fellow junior Justin Moore completed 14 of 19 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, and he rushed for 67 yards and a touchdown.

"Dashon was a beast tonight. The kid is a man-child," Westlake receiver Cody Tuttle said.

Westlake has won 36 of its past 38 games, and the Warriors are shooting for their second Northern championship and third appearance in a final over the past three seasons.

"I think this is a great way to end the season by winning the league title. We all did our part," Westlake kicker Alex Ball said. "It couldn't have gone better. This is a perfect way to get ready for the playoffs."

Westlake leads St. Bonaventure 4-3 in the series, including three wins over the past four.

St. Bonaventure's Zach Green rushed for 137 yards in 20 carries, scoring on runs of 3 and 17 yards. Marc Evans added 177 yards passing, completing 16 of 21, and he also rushed for 36 yards.