Toreros Seek Third Football Win Tonight

SAN DIEGO — The University of San Diego football team (2-3) will try to return to the .500 mark when it plays host to the University of La Verne (2-2) at 7:30 tonight.

The USD-La Verne series is tied at six wins apiece. Last year, La Verne beat the Toreros, 31-13.

Both teams’ wins this season have come against the same opponents--Claremont-Mudd and Pomona-Pitzer. La Verne defeated Pomona-Pitzer last week, 35-14. Leopard quarterback Mark Van Allen passed for 257 yards and three touchdowns. Thomas Brown is La Verne’s top receiver, with 14 catches for 154 yards.

USD is coming off a 27-14 loss to Occidental last week, and the Toreros have been having trouble scoring points.

“It’s up to our offense to control the football and put points on the board,” USD Coach Brian Fogarty said. “We’re moving the ball, but we’re not putting it in the end zone. Our stats look good on paper, but the points aren’t there.”

Injuries continue to be a problem for the Toreros. Strong safety Tim White and defensive tackle Brian Laliberte both have bad knees and won’t play tonight. Tailback Mark Covarrubias, who is still hindered by a sprained big toe, will be in the starting lineup.