Cougars continue return to form

By Ramon Scott
Updated: September 6, 2024

Steele Canyon junior Nico Jara / SCHS Football IG

2024 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL

STEELE CANYON 49, MORSE 13

EastCountySports.com

SPRING VALLEY — Steele Canyon junior Nico Jara is the top big-play man in the section, bar none.

Even when he’s not in position for one of his patented long-scoring kick returns, the superstar return man can race his way into the end zone, ball in hand.

Already with an 89-yard kickoff return in Friday’s non-league contest against visiting Morse, Jara was in his regular defensive position when the Tigers attempted a quick kick out of shotgun formation, probably figuring it was better than another punt to the county’s most dangerous returner.

However, the punt was shanked, and it floated right to Jara, who caught the kick just like usual, and raced 39 yards for another Cougar score, as Steele Canyon was just too much for the Morse.

Jara also had an interception on defense.

Senior John Weaver IV scored four touchdowns, including three rushing, as the Cougars routed the Tigers, 49-13.

Weaver had 139 yards of total offense, including three receptions for 44 yards and a receiving touchdown.

Steele Canyon scored on a quarterback sneak to take a 21-7 lead.

Weaver had a 15-yard touchdown run for a 28-7 advantage.

Tyler Zakaryan had a forced fumble for the Cougars.

Steele Canyon’s Noah Ramirez had seven total tackles, including one for loss.