Prep football recap: No. 2 Liberty takes control of 1st place in league

Prep football recap: No. 2 Liberty takes control of 1st place in league Liberty’s opening play from scrimmage set the tone for a 48‑17 victory over Foothill on Friday night, highlighting how tough the Patriots’ defense will be for any Division I opponent in the CCSD independent ranks. Foothill quarterback Ryder Dobbs lofted a short pass to Owen Preslan‑Aldrigde, but as a swarm of Liberty defenders converged for the tackle, safety Rysen‑James Dacosin‑Arcala stripped the ball, forcing a turnover. On the very next snap, BYU‑committed Ezra Sanelivi punched in a three‑yard touchdown run. Liberty, ranked No. 2 in the Review Journal’s Southern Nevada poll, then rolled to a dominant win over No. 8 Foothill, thanks to a stellar defensive effort. “I knew the starting defense was going to be the identity of this team,” Liberty head coach Rich Muraco said. “We have eight starters, several Division I‑caliber players on the field in a high‑school setting, and we’re going to be strong defensively. I’m pleased with what they’re doing.” Liberty improved to 3‑2 overall and 2‑0 in Division I East, seizing sole possession of first place in the league. The Patriots are now in prime position to be one of the top two teams that will meet in the Division I Superintendents Cup in October, a feat bolstered by a defense that has allowed just 14.4 points per game and recorded two shutouts. “(Defensive coordinator) Coach Kaipo Batoon does an outstanding job, the guys are dialed in with pressures and disguised coverages, and it’s tough to move the ball against them,” Muraco added. “We face them in practice every day, so they’re a legitimate, tough unit.” **Defense playing ‘hungry’** Against Foothill, Liberty recorded five sacks. Maximus Paogofie accounted for two of those sacks and forced a fumble that the Patriots recovered. Carter Christensen contributed a 75‑yard interception return for a touchdown