Football Recap: Dynamic Duo of Michael Plasencio and James Billingsley Lead Mitchell to Victory

Mitchell won the last time they faced Amherst and things went their way on Friday too. The Tigers narrowly escaped with a victory as the team sidled past the Broncos 20-17. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Tigers have posted since October 11, 2024.

James Billingsley

Rushing Yards

10/17/25 @ Amherst	81
10/10/25 vs Kearney Catholic	68
10/03/25 vs Valentine	50
09/26/25 @ Gordon-Rushville	37
09/12/25 vs Chadron	49
+ 4 more games

Leading Mitchell to victory were James Billingsley and Michael Plasencio. Billingsley rushed for 81 yards and one touchdown, while Plasencio rushed for 118 yards and one TD. That's the most rushing yards Billingsley has posted since back in October of 2024.

Wins are hard to come by when you can't run the rock, something Mitchell proved: they limited Amherst to a paltry 2.4 yards per carry. While four picked up at least five total tackles, Billingsley stood above the rest. He rushed for 81 yards and one score, and also threw for 64 yards and one TD while completing 75% of his passes. Mitchell's ground attack was stronger, having averaged 5.2.

Mitchell's defense also made the game a nightmare for Easton Mallack, racking up seven sacks. Waymond Banks was particularly dangerous to the passing game, picking up 2.5 himself.

Mitchell's record is now 3-5. As for Amherst, they have been struggling recently as they've lost five of their last six games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 2-6 record this season.

Mitchell will welcome Hershey at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers' defense has only allowed 14 points per game this season, so the Tigers' offense will have their work cut out for them. As for Amherst, they will head out to challenge Gordon-Rushville at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The Broncos will be up against the Mustangs' rather soft defense (which has allowed 53.86 points per contest), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance.