The562’s coverage of football in 2024-25 is sponsored by The Terry Donahue Memorial California Showcase.
The562’s coverage of Lakewood Athletics is sponsored by J.P. Crawford, Class of 2013.
It’ll be a throwback clash between two former public school powerhouses Friday night as Lakewood hosts Edison at John Ford Stadium.
The teams haven’t played since 2009 when the Chargers defeated the Lancers 37-29 in the PAC-5 semifinals.
A lot has changed in 15 years, but Lakewood coach Justin Utupo was on the field for the Lancers during that game and will look to lead his team to victory against the 0-2 Chargers as Lakewood looks to continue their hot start to the season.
This year’s Lancers are led by quarterback Kade Casillas, star tight end Caleb Tafua and a plethora of weapons on the outside like Tiwan Jones and Cecil Xavier Smith.
If the Chargers hone in to the Lancers passing attack, Lakewood can turn to their beefed up running game that has Jojo Apisala and Nytrell Miller.
Edison has started the season with back-to-back losses, but have lost by a combined two points with a 29-28, 22-21 loss to Clovis West and Yorba Linda respectively.
Senior Savelio Niumata leads the Chargers with 309 passing yards and four touchdowns. Niumata has spread the ball around with nine guys with a reception. Aidan Brown has six receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown, while Jake Minter has five catches for 50 yards and two touchdowns.
Julius Gillick leads the Chargers rushing attack with back-to-back games with over 100 yards and three touchdowns.
