Defense brought the tricks and offense brought the treats in 36-34 victory

SAN MARCOS, CA (10/30/21)- On Saturday, the Palomar Comets took on Cerritos in their eighth game of the season, this time finishing in a narrow 36-34 victory.

Palomar scored two touchdowns in the first quarter, including touchdown passes by Zeke Payne (Rancho Bernardo). Down by one with two minutes to go, Palomar successfully executed the two-minute drill. Tawee Walker (Centennial) carried the ball for 26 yards to Cerritos 46-yard line to start off the drive. On 3rd and 1, he converted the play on a 15-yard gain to Cerritos 22-yard line. The Palomar offense set up a game winning field goal by kicker Landon Ogles (Rancho Bernardo) to seal the victory.

Payne went 21-33 for 257 yards and two touchdowns. Walker led the running backs group with 23 carries for 176 yards, a season-high, and a touchdown. Brandon Johnson (El Camino led the wide receivers' group with five receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown. Linebacker Khalid Walker (Mojave) recorded seven tackles and one sack. Defensive back Rickie Davis Jr. (Arbor View) had nine tackles and one forced fumble. Kicker Landon Ogles (Rancho Bernardo) made all three field goals and made three of four extra point attempts. .

The Comets put up 478 yards of total offense, their most one the season. 257 yards came from the air and 221 yards came from the ground. The defense gave up 399 yards, 235 yards came from the air and 164 came from the ground. The Comets committed a season-low three penalties for 41 yards on the night.

The Comets move to 4-4 on the season and 2-1 in conference play. They will face Mt. San Antonio College at home on November 7th at 6 p.m. 

Story by Mac Pham