Camarillo High School’s football team secured a significant victory against Rio Mesa, winning 22-14 in the 51st edition of the Black and Blue rivalry on August 29, 2023. Senior running back Shane Feller played a pivotal role, rushing for 210 yards on 32 carries, along with two touchdowns and a two-point conversion. This victory marked Feller’s first win over the Spartans after a stretch of four consecutive losses.
Feller emphasized his aggressive playing style, stating, “I have just got to run aggressive. I always have, always will.” His ability to navigate through defenders was enhanced by the strong performance of the offensive line, which included starters Brayden Chiapuzio, Jerome Esguerra, David Brandlen, Benjamin Sullivan, and Peyton Bennett. Their efforts allowed Feller to effectively exploit gaps in the defense, making it increasingly difficult for Rio Mesa to contain him.
Camarillo (1-1) bounced back from an early mishap in the game. The Scorpions fumbled the ball on their first possession, allowing Rio Mesa’s Juan Munoz to score shortly after, giving the Spartans a 6-0 lead. Camarillo responded with a 16-play drive that culminated in a touchdown from sophomore quarterback Dylan Nicholson, leveling the score at 6-6 after a blocked extra point attempt.
The second quarter saw both teams struggle to maintain possession. A blocked punt from Rio Mesa and an interception thrown by Nicholson further stalled momentum. However, Camarillo managed to find its rhythm again with a 79-yard drive, culminating in a touchdown and a two-point conversion by Feller, bringing the score to 14-6.
Rio Mesa’s quarterback, Alec Fontyn, equalized before halftime with a touchdown run and a successful two-point conversion pass to Nate Warren-Lewis. Fontyn completed 14 of 25 passes for 159 yards, alongside 10 carries for 19 yards and a touchdown.
Despite the momentum shift, Rio Mesa (0-2) could not capitalize on their end-of-half score. Their opening drive of the second half stalled at the Camarillo 25-yard line due to a penalty that negated a potential touchdown pass. Head coach Jim Bittner expressed frustration over missed scoring opportunities, noting, “To come away with no points, that hurt.”
Camarillo seized control in the second half, scoring on their next possession to extend their lead to 20-14. A safety, resulting from a bad snap during a Rio Mesa punt, further solidified Camarillo’s advantage. Senior Adriano Elizarraraz recorded the safety, showcasing the Scorpions’ defensive strength.
The game concluded with a spectacular interception by defensive back Carson Machado, who anticipated the long pass intended for Warren-Lewis. Machado noted, “I saw the quarterback — right when he looked, I knew that was where he was going to throw.”
Camarillo’s defense has proven formidable this season, as they have not allowed an opponent to score in the second half of their first two games. Coach Nate Anderson praised his team’s resilience, stating, “They battled, they competed.”
Looking ahead, Camarillo will face Saugus on the road, while Rio Mesa will host Ventura. The excitement of high school football continues as these teams strive to improve their standings in the league.
