HS FOOTBALL: For Desert Christian, defense could be key in Northest final

Northest hopeful Desert Christian proved it can defend a high-powered passing attack in a 33-22 quarterfinal win over Salesian - an opponent that came in with an average of more than 450 yards per game.

"I think we did really good job covering their receivers," Desert Christian defensive back Kiel Alcarez said.

On Saturday, Desert Christian plays at Rio Hondo Prep, and the key for the visiting Knights again could be defense.

Rio Hondo Prep's Jake Holguin, a 6-foot-3 receiver, has 31 catches for 526 yards and 11 touchdowns - more than three times the production of any other receiver on the team. It's obvious Desert Christian has to give Holguin special attention, but Desert Christian coach Israel Ifeanyichukwu would not say much more.

"How are we going to defend (Holguin)? That's for us to know," Ifeanyichukwu said.