SCVAL-El Camino action gets underway this week, and it will have an extra special feel for Santa Clara and Saratoga, who will start their league slates under the bright lights at Levi's Stadium, as the first game of the Levi's Stadium High School Football Series double-header this Friday evening.
Both teams enter the game with identical 1-3 records from non-league play, though Santa Clara had chances to even its record a couple weeks ago. The Bruins opened the season with a 47-0 rout over Prospect, and two weeks later miscues prevented them from earning victory number two, in a hard-fought 35-26 loss against Menlo. Sandwiched around that close loss have been one-sided defeats to Overfelt and Wilcox.
Likewise, Saratoga opened its season with a 27-20 win over Santa Teresa, but has dropped three straight since the opener, falling to Silver Creek, Sacred Heart Prep, and Los Gatos. Despite the record, the Falcons have shown an ability to move the ball offensively. Junior quarterback Payton Stokes has completed 59 percent of his passes, for 779 yards and three touchdowns, though his five interceptions have been an issue. Junior George Bian leads the receiving corps with 17 catches for 270 yards, while senior JJ Wang has provided a presence on the ground, running for 352 yards and four scores. Stokes can also use his legs when needed.
Santa Clara features the pass-and-catch combination of senior dual-threat quarterback Nick Garcia to go with senior receiver Richard Corona. Corona is also dangerous in the return game, and in the secondary, while Garcia wields an extra weapon with his leg. The Bruins also have young talent at running back, with sophomore Bryan Escorza and Isiah Ketton. As a team, Santa Clara looks to get a lift from the change in venue and the importance of playing in its league opener.
"Our energy levels are through the roof this week. The kids and coaches are excited to play in a pro stadium," said Santa Clara coach Burt Codera. "The players have imagined this from the time they were little kids playing in the backyard."
Kickoff for the El Camino opener will be 5 pm at Levi's Stadium, and the game will be followed by the Los Gatos versus Homestead nightcap, which is one of this week's De Anza Division openers.
