Carmel football

 Even on a night when Carmel essentially gave away six possessions with mistakes, couldn't convert on fourth down four times, it still produces 35 points in a route.
 Why?
 Because it has a defense that is going to shut down opponents and limit their touches -- and create a few turnovers as well.
 The Padres struggles over the years in the postseason has been their defense. Go back 10 years to the programs first Central Coast Section title run. They gave up 35 points.
 In following year Carmel gave up 39 in the title game -- 28 in the final 15 minutes in a stunning loss. In seven postseason losses, the defense has allowed 47 points a game.
 The Padres defense has allowed 63 points all season. That's somewhat misleading, in the fact that the first unit has given up just 43 points -- with 23 of those coming in the season opener.
 While the offense is among the best in the state, averaging 43.8 points, Carmel now has a defense capable of taking the program back to the section finals.
 Anchored by lineman Robert Brown and three-year starting safety Zach DeZee, Carmel has shutout three teams while holding Salinas scoreless in the second half.
 It's a cast of players that relish their roles, excel in moments and don't crave the spotlight. The Padres created four turnovers in Friday's win over North Salinas.
 Brown has been a disruptive beast in the trenches along with Yungjae Chee while Connor Houlihan has quietly recorded five sacks and Lavar Edwards has four interceptions.
 When opponents attempt to shed time off the clock by slowing the pace, it only gives this unit more rest to get after the ball.
 Big first half leads haven't been a reason for complacency, as event by the Padres defense having not allowed a point in the third quarter all year.