Inside the Win: Coachella Valley’s defense shines in bell game win

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – Week 6 of high school football has come to a close. The week led by two bell games, with one in the High Desert and the other in the East Valley.

Indio at Coachella Valley headlined these two rivalry matchups, in a game filled with history and high tensions. This is the longest standing rivalry in the desert, and Coachella Valley has been on a win streak in the bell game since 2011.

Indio looked to break that streak Friday night, but Coachella Valley did not let that happen. The Mighty Arabs defense especially, ensured the bell stayed in Thermal.

From sacks, to big tackles and a fumble recovery, the Arabs defense was on point. They held the Rajahs to just one touchdown in the 28-7 win. It was a performance Coachella Valley needed, after coming into this game winless at 0-4.

"I'm hella proud of the defense," head coach Bill Johnson said. "Doing a great job stopping the run but also being there to work the path."

On top of the defense, the Arabs players stepped up when needed. Coachella Valley has had a difficult season so far, especially with injuries. Starting quarterback Ivan Garza was not suited up going into the bell game, but Xzavier Hernandez stepped into his place and took care of business. Hernandez just of the players filling positions the Arabs needed filled.

Among other players making plays when needed were Ryan Rumsey and Angel Diaz. Both working to ensure the bell game streak was not lost.

"I've been in this program since 2012, and seeing a lot of belt game wins," Johnson said. "This one's pretty sweet. This one's pretty sweet."

Inside the Win with Kendall Flynn airs every Saturday on News Channel 3.