SAN CLEMENTE – While most were anticipating the return of quarterback Sam Darnold, the San Clemente defense shined with six turnovers in a 38-22 nonleague win over Los Angeles Garfield, Friday night at San Clemente High.
The Tritons front seven wreaked havoc on Garfield’s backfield, recording five sacks and limiting the Bulldogs to 23 rushing yards.
“Getting pressure on the quarterback with the front seven, they all had their moments,” said Jaime Ortiz, San Clemente coach. “They came up with big plays.”
San Clemente’s defense intercepted Garfield quarterback Ausencio Navarro III three times, including on the Bulldogs’ final two drives. Led by middle linebacker Riley Whimpey, the unit added five sacks, a fumble recovery and two turnover-on-downs.
The offense ran out the final 2:58 to snap an eight-game losing streak dating back to last season.
Offensively, Darnold led the Tritons with four total touchdowns.
The USC-commit put San Clemente ahead on the game’s opening possession with a 24-yard touchdown run and added a second touchdown run in the second quarter to make it 14-0.
But Garfield’s big-play ability brought the Bulldogs back. Navarro hit Stevie Williams for a 32-yard score with 5 seconds remaining in the first half.
Navarro exposed the Tritons secondary with 290 yards passing and three touchdowns. His second pass tied the game at 14-14 midway through the third quarter.
However, San Clemente (1-0) responded with three consecutive scoring drives in the second half.
After a fumble by Garfield (0-1), Darnold hit running back Brandon Reaves for an 11-yard score. The two hooked up again for a 13-yard touchdown with 7:38 remaining.
Running back Vlad Dzhabiyev added a 36-yard touchdown to lead to the final score.
Dzhabiyev rushed 17 times for 134 yards, while Darnold added 80 rushing and 139 yards passing.
Contact the writer: npercy@ocregister.com
