DeMatha Defeats Life Christian Academy

After losing to Imhotep Charter School early in the season, DeMatha has gone on to win three straight including their most recent victory over Life Christian Academy. The Stags’ defense has really stepped up in those contests, allowing only 6 total points in three games, and their Freshman quarterback Denzel Gardner has improved steadily every game. Gardner’s protection from his offensive line has also been stellar, and this protection must continue if DeMatha wants to beat Gonzaga in their rivalry showdown this Friday night. In preparation, let’s take a look at which DeMatha players stood out against Life Christian Academy. &nbsp; <strong><u>DEMATHA </u></strong> &nbsp; Offense: <strong>2025 6’0 175 QB – Denzel Gardner </strong> Denzel Gardner finished out non-league play with a solid performance where he took care of the football. He did not take any unnecessary risks that put the team in bad positions, and he was always conscious of the pressure he was under so that he could avoid it. He added a few touchdowns to the mix as well, and he also showcased his efficient running ability. These are all very good signs that you want to see in a Freshman quarterback heading into league pay in one of the most difficult conferences in all of high school football. Gardner and the Stags face Gonzaga this Friday night. <strong> </strong> <strong>2023 6’5 200 WR – [player_tooltip player_id="146618" first="Kalen" last="Cobb"] </strong> [player_tooltip player_id="146618" first="Kalen" last="Cobb"] hauled in a twenty yard touchdown reception against LCA that gave DeMatha the lead. His size and speed make him extremely difficult to cover, especially in the red zone, and if it’s man coverage then you might as well just let him run by you. Cobb clearly has incredible chemistry with his Freshman quarterback, Denzel Gardner, which will only help the Stags’ efficiency as the season moves forward. Cobb is set to have a big game against Gonzaga, however, he will have to best lockdown Purple Eagle defenders like Gavin Bryson to do so. Cobb is absolutely a D1 level talent. <strong> </strong> Defense: <strong>2022 6’3 210 DB – Kevin Winston </strong> The MVP of this game for the Stags was most definitely Kevin Winston. Winston was sensational in every regard on the defensive end, consistently making tackles in both the open and backfields. There’s no substitute for a high energy player who pursues the ball resiliently at will, and that’s exactly the type of player that Kevin Winston is today. Gonzaga quarterback [player_tooltip player_id="90654" first="Carson" last="Petitbon"] must be on high alert for Winston this Friday, because if he is not then it could be a long night for the Purple Eagles’ offense. <strong>2023 6’0 180 DB – Robert Stevens </strong> Robert Stevens is the most consistent defensive back on this DeMatha squad and he’s only a Junior. When pass catchers line up across from Stevens they simply do not catch the ball. His speed and quickness are extremely elite for the high school game, and when those attributes are combined with his impressive football IQ  then it becomes obvious that he’s on another level entirely. Robert Stevens will be a game changer for the Stags this week against Gonzaga under the Friday night lights. <strong> </strong> <strong> </strong>