Palomar Stuns No. 10 Saddleback with Complete Team Effort, Wins 20-14

**Palomar Stuns No. 10 Saddleback with Complete Team Effort, Wins 20-14**

SAN MARCOS, CA (10/19/2024) -- Palomar College delivered a major statement on Saturday night, defeating No. 10 Saddleback College 20-14 in a thrilling home victory. The win, which pushed the Comets to 3-3 on the season, was fueled by an all-around performance, with the defense making key stops and the offense stepping up to secure the upset.

Davion Green was a standout on defense, intercepting three passes to stifle Saddleback's offensive momentum. Green's clutch performance helped the Comets' defense limit the Gauchos to just 265 total yards, including only 153 through the air.

The Comet offense started strong, with an 8-play, 78-yard drive capped by a 6-yard rushing touchdown from quarterback Andrew Tapley in the first quarter. Saddleback answered back quickly with a 73-yard touchdown pass from Trey Kukuk to Dane Benedix to tie the game. However, Palomar responded immediately with a 66-yard touchdown run by Jaiden Letua, putting the Comets back on top 14-7 by the end of the first quarter.

After a scoreless second quarter, Saddleback tied the game again in the third quarter with a 12-yard touchdown pass from Kukuk to Andrez Lewis. But Palomar answered once more with a 5-yard rushing touchdown by Christian Hall, giving them a 20-14 lead. Despite missing the extra point, the Comets' defense held firm the rest of the way.

Green's third interception came late in the fourth quarter, shutting down Saddleback's final drive. Palomar's defense dominated in key moments, with sacks from Letua and Kavyion Hicks keeping the pressure on Saddleback's quarterbacks. The Comets' offense also controlled the pace with 208 rushing yards, led by Chris Bausch's 93 yards on 20 carries.

Tapley was efficient under center, completing 13 of 24 passes for 111 yards, while Letua's breakout 66-yard run gave the offense the spark it needed to keep Saddleback on the ropes. In a game where every yard and turnover mattered, Palomar's ability to play a complete game on both sides of the ball was the difference.

The victory marked Palomar's biggest win of the season and a turning point as they aim to finish strong. The Comets will ride this momentum into next week's matchup, looking to build on their success.