In a roller-coaster season, the Jesuit High School Marauders will have to stay resilient as they battle the Elk Grove High School Thundering Herd this Saturday, Oct. 12. 

Last week, Jesuit suffered a close defeat to Cosumnes Oaks High School. Despite the loss, Jesuit has still won two of its last three games. When the teams clash in Jesuit’s Allworth Financial Stadium, the Marauders will look to give the Thundering Herd their first Delta League loss of the season.

While the matchup doesn’t favor the home team, Jesuit is ready to produce a winning result. Offensive lineman Aidan Goveas ’20 believes the team’s key to success will be their level of play and teamwork. 

“Elk Grove is a good team, but we believe we can and will beat them,” Aidan said. “They’re a very physical team, and they play fast, [but] effort will win us this game.” 

Jesuit is looking to sharpen their skills and add more intensity to their level of play. Scout and Film Coordinator Jonathan Isaac revealed that he has been dedicated to working together ahead of the game.

“Our team has challenged themselves to be more focused in their preparation both before and during the game,” said Coach Isaac. “[T]hey have improved at being good teammates to each other and displayed respect for the game of football through sportsmanship.” 

Wide receiver Jagger Saca ’20 knows that the game will present challenges and push the Marauders but is driven by the team’s previous loss. 

“This game will challenge us mentally,” Jagger said. “We will get to see how we respond to adversity. We lost our last game, so now it’s time to bounce back.” 

The teams will test each other as Jesuit’s strong-armed quarterback Daniel Susac ’20 will look to lead his team against the Thundering Herd’s vigorous defense. 

On the other side of the field, the Thundering Herd will be led by senior quarterback Carter Harris whose strong run game got him more than 1,200 rushing yards last season.

The game will be played at Jesuit on Saturday, Oct. 12, at 1 p.m. 

Article originally published in "The Plank" October 10, 2019