Coach Mo Basketball

Defense & running game will carry Phoenix Christian 11/07/2006 08:14 AM How good is Phoenix Christian? So good they managed to come out flat against San Manuel in Friday’s 2A playoff opener and still win 54 to 8. The Cougars turned it on in the second quarter putting up 29 points. Freshman Bobby Calvin had another big night with a 14-yard touchdown run and a 26-yard interception return for six. The youngster comes off the bench, but is the best tailback on campus. When they run the sweep to the left side Calvin chews up about five or more yards every time. Coach Jim Rattay has a nice group of backs with Calvin and starter Jr. Jarret who’s a good player as well. But to win it all, I think Coach has to give Calvin the bulk of the snaps. One of the coaches’ told me Calvin “Will be the surprise of the playoffs.” I won’t be surprised. I think everyone knows how good he is. It’s no secret to beat the Cougars you have to stop the run and go after quarterback Nate Desantiago. The passing game is efficient and is capable of hitting big plays, but can be shut down. The best thing about the Cougars is there defense; through 11 games they’ve given up only 73 points. You don’t have to be Einstein to figure out the numbers. Senior linebacker Rocky Gingg leads the charge. This kid is always around the football and loves contact. Do I think the Cougars were looking ahead to their second round match-up against St. Johns? Definitely. But here on out for the Cougars the playoff competition gets rough. First, they travel on the road against a very talented St Johns team. Then, if they win, they’ll have a possible semifinal showdown at McClintock High School versus number one Valley Christian, a squad that handed the Cougars their only loss. But you know how the saying goes. “To be the best you’ve got to beat the best.” I think The Cougars will win on Friday and get another chance at Valley Christian. They want a rematch so bad and know there close to getting it. Until next week “True Believers,” work the mind as well as the body, support the teams and teammates and give it all you got. Joe Pequeno over and out!