Varsity football starts off season with a bang

By Ryan Thompson

The sea of red shirts in the packed stands and the section of white shirts standing up ready to cheer is a sight to behold, especially if you are sitting on the opposite side. Then, as if that was not enough, the band begins to play, and, as the drum beat grows louder and faster, the fans got even more excited and stand up as the 1998-99 Jesuit Marauder Varsity Football team charges onto the field. Running with their hands pumping toward the sky, butting helmets and sharing a general sense of high morale, this confident team is breathtaking. The Rio fans were flabbergasted and one man muttered, "Its going to be a long night." They were taken aback by the shear size, confidence, and color of the team. The red helmets, football jerseys, and crowd hats and shirts were intimidating, and it seemed the opposing crowd knew it was over.

This is a deep and talented football team with seniors and juniors who want to win. They are currently ranked third behind Elk Grove and Grant, two teams they will not play in the regular season.

Behind the ball on the offensive side is one of the most potent running games in the city. The combination of Kenneth Maxwell and Charles Bell is quite possible the best one-two punch the Jesuit running game has seen. Over two games, Charles Bell has scored four touchdowns and run for over 300 yards on 18 carries. Maxwell has carried the ball for 278 yards and four touchdowns, averaging an impressive 8.3 yards per carry. Both Bell and Maxwell compliment their offensive line. "Without a great offensive line, their is no such thing as a good running back," states K.C. Maxwell.

Although the running game is a potent part of the Marauder's offense, they also have a talented passing game. Led by second year starting quarterback Brian Karns, the Marauders have been affective in the air as well. Brian has thrown for 252 yards and three touchdowns in the two games, and has proved to be a great leader. With Tim Olson, their projected number one receiver out with a bad back, junior Ryan Parilo has stepped up, receiving four passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns. Tight End Kelly Micco, also a junior, has helped by catching three balls for over fifty yards. Casey Young, Andrew Jenks, Justin Thomas and Michael Kupper have also helped to fill in the hole at the wide receiver spot.

Perhaps even more important than having a good arm is having a quarterback who is a team leader and good in the huddle. Bell commented on Karns attitude and composure during intense moments on the field.

James Jimenez quickness is an important part of special teams. His speed and experience also help to build a strong secondary team. Justin Thomas told the Plank, "We are one of the best defenses in the city-we are big and better than last year. We stepped up and stopped El Camino's Wing-T offense, and we can only get better."

The defensive pass rush has put intense pressure on the opponent's tailbacks, and is constantly in the face of the opponent's quarterback. Brandt Mori, Josh Day, Michael Catapano and junior Michael Luca make up the starters and bring a new meaning to the saying "Red Brick Wall." With their sheer size, and also with their quick moves and reflexes, they have served as an integral part of this explosive defense.

The defensive pass rush has also put intense pressure on the opponent's linebackers who are the final part of this impeccable defense. Consisting of Ben Sharpe, Keith Barnett, and Jeff Reiman, these three starting linebackers add extra pressure and intensity. Jeff Reiman spoke of the defense with praise, "The combo of the D-line and out linebacker trio is a big part of our relentless defense.

"Kicker Jared Siegal should also be commended for his outstanding kicks in the two games. El Camino had two very talented kick returners, but Jared was able to keep the ball out of their hands much as possible, while keeping the ball in-bounds. This is a position that often goes unnoticed but should definitely be recognized.

The Marauder defense has held its competitors to 20 points while the offense has pitched in with 79 points. Both sides of the ball have complemented each other very well and have already proven to be a winning formula.

Go out and support the team on their quest for the Metro League Title. Cheer with Randy Brockman's new and improved Sixth Man and scream, "Go Big Red!"

Despite what the Sacramento Bee may report on Jesuit football, fans and players are determined to make this a great season