In a highly anticipated rivalry game, Acalanes squared off against their archrival, Campo, in a thrilling contest Friday night that ended in a 20-17 victory for the Dons. While quarterbacks and skill players often dominate the headlines, it was the relentless efforts of the offensive and defensive lines that truly carried the Dons to victory.
Offensive Line: The Backbone of the Offense
Acalanes’ offensive line, composed of Luca Premo (#52), Jack Manful (#55), Drew McKenzie (#62), Andrew Tresser (#71), and Santiago Chanelo (#79), played a pivotal role in the rivalry win. Their performance allowed running back Josh Elerts (#89) to rush for 138 yards, keeping Campo’s defense honest and enabling the Dons to maintain a balanced attack.
Additionally, their stellar pass protection gave quarterback Tyler Winkles (#6) the time he needed to complete 10 of 15 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns. The O lines’ ability to execute in crucial moments, such as the opening 30-yard touchdown pass to sophomore Finley Rivera (#13), set the tone early.
Defensive Line: A Stone Wall Against Campo
The defensive line, featuring Andrew Caicedo (#50), Jack Cooney (#58), Drew McKenzie (#62) and Bethel Imasuen (#65), was equally dominant. Facing a strong Campo offense that had rushed for 203 yards in their previous matchup, the D-line stepped up to limit their rival to just 108 rushing yards.
Their efforts, highlighted by 15 combined tackles and a fumble recovery, disrupted Campo’s offensive rhythm and allowed Acalanes’ linebackers to shine. David Roux (#23) led the defensive charge with 16 tackles, while Brady Wall (#41) contributed nine tackles, three tackles for loss, and a forced fumble that shifted the game’s momentum
Stepping Up in Key Roles
With offensive standout Niko White (#18) unavailable due to injury, Rivera rose to the occasion, making five receptions for 114 yards—all resulting in first downs—and scoring two touchdowns. His ability to fill the void was instrumental in Acalanes’ success. On defense, Wall was an omnipresent force, seemingly involved in every play and energizing the unit.
Penalty Discipline and Game-Changing Plays
Discipline proved critical in the rivalry matchup. Acalanes committed just five penalties for 30 yards, compared to Campo’s nine penalties for 65 yards. Campo’s infractions disrupted their drives and nullified key gains. Key moments included a bold 4th-and-5 conversion in the first quarter culminating in a touchdown pass to Grant Ricker (#19), a crucial defensive stop in the fourth quarter when Wall forced a fumble recovered by Adam Caicedo, and Campo’s dramatic last-second 41-yard field goal attempt that fell just short, securing the Dons’ victory.
Statistics Tell the Tale
This tightly contested game reflected the fierce nature of the Acalanes-Campo rivalry:
- Total Yards: Acalanes 304, Campo 340
- 1st Downs: Acalanes 15, Campo 16
- Turnovers: 1 each
- Time of Possession: Acalanes 24:21, Campo 23:39
Players of the Game
- Overall: Finley Rivera (#13)
- Offense: Tyler Winkles (#6)
- Defense: Brady Wall (#41)
- Special Teams: David Roux (#23)
Looking Ahead: Regional Finals vs. Carmel High
Fresh off their twice-in-a-season victory over Campo, the Dons now set their sights on the CIF Regional Finals. Acalanes will face Carmel High on Friday, December 6, at 7:30 PM at Monterey Peninsula College. This matchup offers a chance for the Dons to continue their postseason run and take another step toward a state championship.
