After having lost a blowout in their previous game against Sonora, Escalon was happy to have turned things around on Friday. They were the clear victor by a 42-17 margin over the Hilmar Yellowjackets. The Cougars' offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.
Escalon's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Donovan Martinez led the charge by throwing for 192 yards and four touchdowns on only 17 passes. Dominic Arauza also helped with two touchdowns in total.
Perhaps unsurprisingly given the score, Escalon was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 250 rushing yards. That's the most rushing yards they've managed all season.
Escalon wouldn't let Hilmar keep a hold of the ball as they managed to force two fumbles. Escalon can thank Preston Berhorst and Dylan Ball for forcing both of them.
Hilmar's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Merek Ellerd, who rushed for 51 yards and a touchdown, and also threw for 136 yards and a touchdown. Another player making a difference was Caden Bailey, who rushed for 101 yards.
Escalon's win bumped their record up to 2-3. As for Hilmar, their loss ended a five-game streak of wins at home dating back to last season and dropped them to 3-2.
Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Escalon will square off against Hughson at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Hughson's defense has only allowed 8.4 points per game this season, so Escalon's offense will have their work cut out for them. As for Hilmar, they will head out on the road to face off against Sonora at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. One thing working in Sonora's favor is that they have posted at least 31 points every time they've taken the field this season.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
