Crean Lutheran captures third in a row with big home victory over Rancho Christian

Crean Lutheran Coach Rick Curtis has the Saints off to a 3-0 start. (File photo: OC Sports Zone, Fernando M. Donado).

Crean Lutheran High School’s football team is off to a 3-0 start under Coach Rick Curtis.

The Saints defeated Rancho Christian 26-14 Friday night at Orange Coast College in a non-league game.

Rancho Christian (2-1) came into the game averaging 45 1/2 points and allowing just 11.

“Great win over Rancho Christian for the Saints,” Curtis said Saturday.

The Saints were led by quarterback Gavin Rogers, who completed 15 of 19 passes for 183 yards and two touchdown passes.

Eli Bray had 26 carries for 149 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Ben Byszewski had two touchdown catches.

Ty Benefield had a big overall game with seven tackles, four passes broken up, one interception and a 37-yard interception return.

Ben Abate had six tackles and kicker Connor Stephens had five touchbacks on kick-offs. He also had three of four punts inside the 20-yard line and made two of three point afters.

Crean Lutheran has a bye this week before hosting Laguna Beach on Friday, Sept. 16. The location will be announced.