Football: Crenshaw's defense is the real deal

In its last eight games, Crenshaw High's defense hasn't allowed any team to score more than 14 points. That's the challenge unbeaten Narbonne will face on Saturday in the City Section Division I championship game at 7 p.m. at East Los Angeles College.

"They're fun to watch," Narbonne offensive coordinator Tim Kaub said. "They're a great City team."

Linebacker Corey Walker, a junior, and lineman Brian Irving, a senior, have been standouts during the playoffs. Also performing well has been defensive back Max Lyons. Crenshaw held Western League champion Venice to 10 points in the semifinals.

"They're very fast," Kaub said. "They fly to the ball. They will hit you. They do a great job disrupting offenses."

Turnovers have been key to helping Crenshaw's rout playoff opponents. Narbonne will need to avoid interceptions and fumbles to prevail.

-- Eric Sondheimer