When Brentwood’s football team defeated Calvary Chapel Friday, October 12, 21-0 it was the Eagles’ fifth game out of six when the opponent failed to score a touchdown.
Four opponents have been shut out. Salesian scored two points – being awarded a safety when the Eagles snapped the ball out of the end zone on a punt attempt – and Paraclete, the only team to defeat Brentwood, scored two touchdowns and its defense accounted for another on an interception return.
How good is Brentwood’s defense?
“Among the best we’ve ever had,” said Coach Patrick Brown, who’s in his 29th year.
“It ranks with the outstanding defenses we had from 1997 through 1999, when Steve Young, Robert Paik, and Kelechi Wami were sophomores, then juniors and seniors.”
Brown also mentioned the Brentwood defense in 1989 when the school played 8-man football.
Brentwood won the coin toss against Calvary Chapel, marched downfield to a touchdown, and then didn’t let the visitors get back into the game in the Alpha League opener.
Josh Amster scored first on a nine-yard run around end, then Mason Moss threw touchdown passes to Ben Oliva for 35 and 36 yards.
Defensive end Charlie James and linebackers Ian Shaw and Justin Ostroff led the defense.
James, who played tight end last year, has quickly become a defensive force.
“He’s big, agile, and has good speed,” said Brown.
The game was only the second at home for Brentwood this season, and the Eagles will be back on the road against Marshall Friday night.