Football: Notre Dame tries to end losing streak against Chaminade

The last time Sherman Oaks Notre Dame defeated Chaminade in a football game was the 2009 season. Now that the Knights are in the same league with Chaminade, Friday’s Mission League game becomes even more important.

Notre Dame is 0-1 in league. Chaminade is 1-1. Notre Dame gave up 31 points last week in a 37-31 nonleague victory over Oaks Christian and will be facing a tough Eagles rushing attack, led by freshman TJ Pledger.

The coaches in the Mission League don’t agree about much, but most think Pledger is the best freshman they’ve seen in a long time.

Notre Dame needs another strong effort from junior running back Leo Lambert III. He was sick and didn’t practice much during the Knights’ league loss to Gardena Serra but had 163 yards rushing against Oaks Christian. He’s up to 904 yards on the season.

“He ran a little harder with more authority, and he needs to continue to get better and we need to block better,” Notre Dame Coach Kevin Rooney said.

The game will be played on Chaminade’s blue field. Asked if any special preparation is needed, Rooney said, “I haven’t even thought about it. I wish you hadn’t reminded me. I think it’s the same as green.”

Twitter:@LATSondheimer