GAME RECAP: Bobcats make Homecoming Memorable with 4th Straight Win

MISSION VIEJO, CA- On a beautiful night in Mission Viejo, California, Junior College Football made its triumphant return to Southern California following a one-week hiatus. The Saddleback Bobcats, eager to celebrate their homecoming, hosted the Palomar Comets in a game that would prove to be memorable.

Right from the kickoff, Saddleback’s defense made a bold statement. As Palomar received the ball first, the Bobcats’ defense wasted no time becoming a nightmare for the Comets. Within the first 15 seconds of the game, Bryce Crider of Saddleback scooped up a Palomar fumble and returned it for a spectacular 22-yard touchdown. The Bobcats took an early 7-0 lead, setting the tone for the evening.

Palomar quickly regained possession, only to hand the ball right back to the Bobcats with a perfectly placed punt that pinned Saddleback on their own 1-yard line. Palomar’s defense managed to secure a safety, putting the Comets on the board with 2 points.

The Saddleback offense found its rhythm towards the end of the first quarter, unveiling a trick play that left the Palomar defense in awe. Jacob Sears connected with Saddleback’s Tight End, Seth Lyon, for an impressive 52-yard touchdown pass, extending the Bobcats’ lead to 14-2 heading into the second quarter.

The Bobcats didn’t slow down in the second quarter. They embarked on an 81-yard, 8-play drive that culminated in a 4-yard touchdown run by Saddleback’s quarterback, Brandon Berwald. At halftime, Saddleback held a commanding 21-2 lead.

In the third quarter, Saddleback continued to build their lead with a pair of field goals from Kian Afrookhteh, making it 27-2 in favor of the Bobcats.

As the game moved into the fourth quarter, Saddleback’s defense and special teams continued to shine, setting up their offense for a remarkable final quarter. The Bobcats added 21 more points to their tally. Palomar managed to add 8 points with a 9-yard pass from Kah Reed to Jake Whitehead, which included a successful 2-point conversion. However, it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback, as the Bobcats would win it 48-10

The Saddleback Bobcats secured their fourth consecutive victory, setting the stage for a two-game road trip beginning in El Cajon against Grossmont College on Saturday, October 21st, at 1 pm.