Athlete of week: Drake Vatuvei, Patterson

DRAKE VATUVEIPatterson tackle/running back

• What he did: The 5-foot-11, 200-pound senior is easy to spot in the field, with his long hair flowing out the back of his helmet. He was there again Saturday, running for 54 yards and a key touchdown, and playing a physical game on the defensive line as the Tigers topped Central Valley 21-20 by blocking a field goal on the last play of the game. Vatuvei was one of the three Tigers who crashed through the line on the kick.

• What it means: The Tigers are still in running for the WAC title, but will await word on injured QB Joey Lopes. If he's not at full strength, the Tigers are going to focus on running the ball.

• What's next: The No. 7 large-school Tigers (4-1) host Livingston (3-3), with WAC favorites Los Banos and Central Catholic still to come.