By Alfonso Rivera Jr.
The Garfield Bulldogs dismantled the Roosevelt Roughriders 49-16 in the 88th version of the East L.A. Classic in front of over 18,000 fans at East Los Angeles’ College Weingart Stadium on Friday the 27th of October.
After suffering a defeat in the opening game of the season 43-40 at the hands of the perennial CIF powerhouse Cathedral Phantoms, the Dogs have been on a roar. They have accumulated 9 consecutive victories and are the #3 ranked team in the LA City Section. Their impressive record now stands at 9-1 (6-0) in League.
Last year’s Open Division Runner Up Garfield appears to have a chip on their shoulder and is seeking redemption after getting beaten convincingly last year by the 3 Time Defending City Open Division Champion, Birmingham Patriots 49-13.
The East Los Angeles based school returned the vast majority of last years stellar cast. They were all on display on Friday night versus their arch rival from Boyle Heights. Fullback/LB Robert Sanchez rushed for 112 yards and 3 TD’s on 10 carries. Jayden Barnes caught 2 TD’s, Damian Cabrera threw 3TD’s, Isaak Naranjo had a 10yd TD reception and Paul Ramos had a 70 yd punt return for the potent Garfield offense.
The Bulldogs received the #2 seed in the City Open Division Playoffs and will host the San Pedro Pirates in the opening round on Thursday 11/9 @ Garfield High School at 7pm.
Defensive Coordinator James Wicks stated, “ This team has been together for 3 years now, they have put in the work….the discipline, they can execute and hopefully this leads to some special things come playoff time!”
Naranjo said it in simple terms, “We are ready for the Birminghams’, the Carsons’….looking forward to the Open Division playoffs, we are prepared.”
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