Prep football: Senior Jake Hall powers Oak Ridge past Cosumnes Oaks

Last season’s subpar 3-7 record for the Oak Ridge Trojans was precisely that: subpar. But Friday night’s season-opening effort was a whole different story.

Led by dual-threat senior leader Jake Hall and a strong defense that included Dwight Martin’s two interceptions, No. 17 Oak Ridge demolished host Cosumnes Oaks 56-0 in Elk Grove.

It was impossible to miss Hall. His number 28 was always there as he starred on offense, defense and special teams. He played running back on offense, middle linebacker on defense and was all over the place on returns. He’s the captain of the defense and the stalwart of the offense, including rushing for two touchdowns. Martin also ran for two scores and Maddox Varella tossed two touchdowns as Oak Ridge stormed to a 21-0 first-quarter lead and coasted to the win.

It all started with Hall. Football is in his DNA. His father Keith Hall was a linebacker at Sacramento State. Hall said he has been destined for success starting in the sport as a fifth-grader. He is known as a big personality and had plenty to say afterward, and the topic wasn’t just football. He plans a career as a firefighter. The reason: “I think it’s a job that will keep me fit. I want to stay active.”

Second-year Oak Ridge coach Casey Taylor said Hall’s mindset of constantly staying fit has furthered his game.

“He’s always in the weight room,” Taylor said. “It comes from wrestling. That’s why he can play both sides of the ball. I don’t have to pick one position for him. He’s been a great addition to the backfield.”

Hall started his prep career at nearby Ponderosa and has flourished the last two seasons on the El Dorado Hills campus. Asked asked which position he prefers, runner or linebacker, he quickly responded: “I like them both.”

After a disappointing first year in 2021 at his alma mater, Taylor said he anticipated his team’s big turnaround. The commitment started in the weight room after last season ended.

“These kids play hard,” he said. “They’re a strong group of guys and they are willing to be physical.”

Still, this was not an expected blowout.

“We had a long, hot drive in the bus over here,” Taylor said. “I expected a win out of my guys but this beat my expectations. I have great respect for Cosumnes so this was definitely a big result. It’s great to start off with a win.”

Cosumnes Oaks coach Martin Billings said the outcome is the beginning of a growing process. He said only nine players on the Wolfpack roster have played in a varsity game. Star player Jared Quenga missed the game after sustaining an injury in an offseason rugby match.

Oak Ridge hosts Vacaville on Friday and Cosumnes Oaks travels to Turlock to play Pitman.