Football: Scott Altenberg did not call for Adoree’ Jackson’s fake punt
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Gardena Serra Coach Scott Altenberg received several nasty emails because of Adoree’ Jackson’s 78-yard fake punt for a touchdown early in the third quarter on Saturday during the Cavaliers’ 42-15 CIF state championship Division II bowl victory over Oakdale.
The Cavaliers were leading, 35-0, and faced a fourth-and-long situation when Jackson took off and never got touched. Some people considered it unsportsmanlike.
‘You think I called it on fourth-and-31 from my own 22?’ Altenberg said.
Altenberg kindly reminded Jackson that it wasn’t really the best decision.
‘You can’t give the riot act when he goes 78 yards,’ he said.
The problem is Altenberg needs to define to Jackson his limitations.
‘Fourth-and-99, he probaby thinks he can get it,’ Altenberg said of his junior star.
College coaches have been calling en masse to speak to Altenberg about his players. Junior quarterback Jalen Greene is starting to generate lots of interest after his performance during the playoffs.
And there’s Jackson, who figures to be one of the nation’s top recruits next season.
Meanwhile, Altenberg will be coaching the running backs in San Antonio next month for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
As for Serra’s 2013 schedule, the Cavaliers are expected to play in a showcase event during zero week against a national opponent. They also have games scheduled against Sherman Oaks Notre Dame, Dorsey and Narbonne.
-- Eric Sondheimer