Santa Monica currently sits tied for second in the Pioneer League with Redondo Union (both 2–1), while Torrance leads the standings at 3–0
After a difficult 47–7 loss to Redondo Union, the Santa Monica High School Vikings will look to regroup as they host the undefeated Torrance Tartars in a key Pioneer League matchup Friday night at Corsair Field.
Santa Monica (5–3 overall, 2–1 league) dropped its first conference game of the season last week, while Torrance (8–0, 3–0) remains unbeaten and atop the standings. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
In last week’s defeat, the Vikings struggled to find rhythm on offense after scoring 42 points in their previous outing. Senior quarterback Eliot Bingener has led the team this season with 12 passing touchdowns and a 61.7% completion rate, while senior wide receiver Payton Seals has been his top target, averaging 77.3 receiving yards per game and totaling six touchdowns, according to MaxPreps.
Sophomore Myles Lee has also been a reliable option through the air, averaging 52 receiving yards per game and scoring three total touchdowns. Junior running back Saul Buendia leads the ground game with 45.2 rushing yards per contest, while senior Jaxon Lee adds 30.8 yards per game and two rushing touchdowns, according to MaxPreps.
Defensively, senior Jackson Nelson has anchored the secondary with 5.6 tackles per game and two interceptions. Linebacker Isaiah Fernandez follows with 4.5 tackles per game, and senior Justin Guzman adds 4.4.
The Vikings’ offense has averaged 23.6 points per game, compared to Torrance’s potent 36.9-point average. The Tartars have outscored opponents 295–125 this season and have yet to lose at home or on the road.
Santa Monica currently sits tied for second in the Pioneer League with Redondo Union (both 2–1), while Torrance leads the standings at 3–0.
Digital tickets for Friday’s game are available through GoFan.
