Charter Oak (3-0) is hosting Rancho Cucamonga (3-0) on Friday live on Fox Sports at 7:30 p.m. Both teams are 16-0-1 since last season and defending divisional champs. Their only blemish, a 14-14 tie against each other. We caught up with Rancho coach Nick Baiz to get his thoughts on the game.
Impression of Charter Oak
“They’re obviously a really good team, they have a ton of great athletes a good coaching staff, it’s a big concern.”
On what to focus on
“You have to start with their running back (Adam Muema), he’s a special player. We have to try and contain him before anything else.”
On this game having state playoff implications
“I don’t know about that, we have no say in those things. We’re treating it as a big game, if feels like a CIF championship type of game. We’re going to feed off the energy, but by no means is our season dependent on this game.”
Who does it mean more to?
“I can’t speak to that, that’s something you have to ask Lou. For us, we know it’s a big game. I wouldn’t say it’s a rivalry or anything. We know they’re a good team and defending CIF champions. The fact that it’s on TV probably adds a little more to it.”
On how his team is playing
“I thought our first two games were a little flat. I don’t know if our kids have played to their potential yet. They should get our best game on Friday.”
On his quarterback Greg Watson, who was offered by Oregon in the spring, but has since had that offer pulled off the table.
“He’s a phenomenal athlete and just a winner. He’s a great student, a great leader and a competitor. He’s one of those guys who hates to lose and plays that way.”
On how live television changes things.
“This is our first time being on television with our coaching staff and kids. I’m not sure if (the hype) is about the rematch of two 13-0-1 teams or the television, but I think the team that blocks out the television (aspect) the best may win the game. The team in awe of it may not be as focused.”
Last year’s game ended in a 14-14 tie, will there be a tiebreaker this time in case of another tie?
“I don’t think either one of us will agree to a tie. It will be settled one way or another.”
Below: Rancho Cucamonga QB Greg Watson
