Derek Rivera is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Deer Valley High School for AZPreps365.com

PHOENIX– Deer Valley surpassed the 40-point mark for the third time this season in a well-balanced 42-8 victory Friday night over Alhambra.

The Skyhawks' sixth win matched its win total from last year and put them off to its best start since the 2011 season.   

The Skyhawks scored three rushing touchdowns and three passing, continuing an offensive attack that has been consistent all season. The Skyhawks came into the game with 10 rushing touchdowns and 10 receiving TDs.

The Skyhawks’ defense had a stellar night as they forced three turnovers, giving them 14 takeaways on the season. Their first forced fumble came with 20 seconds remaining in the first half which set up the offense for a three-play touchdown drive to make it 28-0 at the intermission.     

“I really think we're a physical football team. We really enjoy hitting,” Deer Valley coach Dan Friedman said.   

Senior quarterback Tyler Lebaron completed 15 of 22 passes for a season high 187 yards and three touchdown passes, bringing his season total to 12. 

Deer Valley's offense came to life in the second quarter, scoring on all three of its possessions including a 14-play, 91-yard drive that ended with a 3-yard Lebaron TD pass to junior receiver Brody Keith to make the score 21-0 with 21 seconds remaining. 

Senior running back Marcus Johnson had two TDs and was one of five players to score for Deer Valley. 

“I’ll take what they give me every time,” Friedman said. “If we have playmakers all over the field, that's better for us in the future.” 

Friday's game was the Skyhawks’ first of five region games.

“I like these wins. We act like we’re 0-0 in every game,” Johnson said.      

The Skyhawks’ defense made it difficult on the Lions’ (0-5) freshman quarterback, Messan Alokpovi, holding him to 7-of-18 passing for 61 yards and an interception. 

“I think Messan has shown that each week he’s getting game experience and it’s really priceless,” Alhambra coach Charles Rivera Jr. said. “Messan’s a special kid. He's strong, tough, and a true leader.”

Alokpovi plays alongside his two older brothers, junior receiver Julien and senior Jah.

“It helps out a lot,” Messan Alokpovi said. “I feel more supported and it makes it easier to play the game.”   

The Lions’ lone touchdown was a 9-yard rush by junior running back Damien Terrell-Nicks with 4:16 remaining in the game. 

Deer Valley's defense has produced all season, only giving up an average of 10 points a game including a 21-0 victory over Sahuarita. 

“I wish we would have got a shutout again tonight, but it is what it is,” Friedman said. 

The Skyhawks (6-0, 1-0) are looking to avoid missing the playoffs for a third straight year. 

They will host Washington (2-2) next Friday at 7 p.m. 

Alhambra (0-5,0-1) will travel to Estrella Foothills (4-2,1-0) next Friday at 7 p.m.