Football: Jordan Payton kicks it into high gear

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Having watched receiver Jordan Payton of Westlake Village Oaks Christian since he was a freshman, I felt last season as a junior he took it a little easy after he committed to USC and thought that scholarship offer alone made him an elite player.

This summer, I’ve seen a return to focus and a renewed dedication and determination to earn his status as one of the best, and that kind of effort was on display Friday in a game against Westlake Village Westlake in the Conejo Valley tournament.

He caught a couple of touchdown passes early and showed leadership in trying to inspire his teammates. It’s that firey demeanor that was sometimes missing last season. When Payton is being aggressive and using his strength and agility, he ranks with the best.

Oaks Christian defeated the Warriors, getting solid play from junior quarterback Luke Falk, a transfer from Utah.

Action continues Saturday in the tournament.

-- Eric Sondheimer