An unblemished season

After becoming the first team in Westlake history to go undefeated at 14-0, the Westlake players and coaches were asked where they believed the Warriors would be remembered historically.

"Coach Benkert says it’s the best team ever to come through Westlake," said wide receiver/defensive end and USC-bound Michael Stuart. "We’re leaving a big legacy. We’re very proud."

Running back Tahj Mowry said, "To the day I die, I’ll remember the 2003 Warriors, because I’m going to have a big, fat ring on my finger. Everybody will remember this team."

Defensive coordinator Mike Leibin played at Westlake before becoming a coach there. "I think based on record alone, it’s the best team in Westlake history," he said. "There’s not a blemish. And it’s not like we softened our preseason schedule. We played tough teams."

Westlake beat Hart, the eventual Division II champion and Notre Dame, the eventual Division III champion, in non-league games. The Warriors then beat solid Agoura and Moorpark teams before taking down St. Bonaventure, which had won four straight CIF championships.

At the Westlake football banquet on Sunday at the Hyatt Regency in Westlake Village, Benkert said a case could be made—based on power-ratings—for Westlake being the No. 1 ranked team in the nation.

"This is the only 14-0 team in Westlake history," said senior quarterback Rudy Carpenter. "The greatest Westlake team ever."

Also bound for USC, Jimmy Miller, the tight end/defensive end, agreed. "This cements our place in history as one of the best teams in the area," said Miller.

—Wayne Harrison