Defense shows out on Homecoming

The Saddleback football team defeated Chaffey College, 54-14, on Saturday night inside the Saddleback Stadium.  The Bobcats head into the bye week at 4-1 overall.

Saddleback's defense was the story of the game.  The Bobcats turned back the clock to seasons gone by, forcing five turnovers in what turned out to be a 40-point blowout.

Saddleback's defense wasted no time, scoring on the first play from scrimmage when Noah Luginbill stepped in front of a Francisco Villalbazo pass and returned it 39 yards for a score.  It was one of three interceptions for touchdown on the night as Chaffey quarterbacks threw four interceptions in the game.

Saddleback led 21-7 with time running down in the opening half when the defense struck again.  This time it was Jaden Humphrey (pictured) returning an interception 35 yards for a score. 

The final pick six came late in the game with the Bobcats well in command when Roman Hardin stepped in front of a ball at the Bobcat 20-yard line and raced 80 yards for the final score of the game. 

Saddleback's defense would force five turnovers for the game.  The special teams also joined the party.  Saddleback led 40-7 when Demari Washington charged in untouched off the edge to block a punt deep in Chaffey territory.  The Bobcats would cash in two plays later when Jaylen Beverly-Rushing hit a seam and ran nine yards for a score to give Saddleback a 47-14 advantage. 

Quarterback Tyler Dudden finished 13-for-23 for 113 yards and three touchdown passes on the night.  Kavaughn Clark finished with a team-high 38 yards rushing while Francisco Martinez led the team in receiving with five catches for 47 yards and a score.

Saddleback is now 4-1 overall and 2-0 in National Division Southern League play.  The Bobcats have next week off for a bye before traveling to Mt. San Jacinto College on Thursday, October 9.