Garfield Triumphs Over Roosevelt in Thrilling 90th East L.A. Classic

UPDATE: In a stunning showdown, Garfield High School defeated Roosevelt High School 37-30 in front of a record-breaking crowd of 14,000 fans at East Los Angeles College during the 90th East L.A. Classic on October 27, 2023. This marks the largest regular season attendance for a high school football game in California this season, showcasing the deep-rooted community spirit and loyalty towards these rival schools.

The intense atmosphere electrified the stadium as Garfield’s head coach Patrick Vargas, a former Bulldogs quarterback, celebrated his first major victory in the position. Vargas, who has spent years under the guidance of former coach Lorenzo Hernandez, expressed the thrill of the moment, stating, “When you step on the field, you hear that roaring crowd. You hear that booing crowd. That’s the time of your life. You’re going to enjoy that moment and soak everything in.”

Garfield (7-2, 6-0) showcased resilience, particularly after losing their star All-City running back Ceasar Reyes to injury in the first quarter. Backup running back Zastice Jauregui stepped up significantly, scoring two touchdowns, including a pivotal 15-yard run during the third quarter that widened Garfield’s lead to 34-8. Jauregui’s performance was a testament to the team’s depth and determination.

Defensive lineman Chuck Perez also made his mark, contributing with a three-yard touchdown run and recovering a critical fumble, strengthening Garfield’s position in the game. Despite a strong push from Roosevelt (4-5, 3-2), who briefly led 8-6 in the first quarter after a touchdown by Jordan Nunez, the Bulldogs maintained control until the final seconds of the match. Roosevelt managed to score another touchdown and two-point conversion in a frantic fourth quarter, closing the gap to 37-30.

Looking ahead, Garfield has little time to celebrate this monumental win. They face a crucial matchup against Northern League champion Eagle Rock on Thursday night, a game that could determine their playoff chances in the City Section Open Division. With emotions running high and stakes even higher, the Bulldogs are poised for another thrilling encounter.

As excitement builds, this victory not only highlights the competitive spirit of high school football but also reflects the passionate community involvement that makes events like the East L.A. Classic unforgettable. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this season unfolds, making each game a must-watch.