The Chico Panthers will face off against the Elk Grove Thundering Herd at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.
Elk Grove is facing Chico at the wrong time: Chico suffered their first home loss of the season last Friday and they're likely out for redemption. They took a 28-21 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Wildcats. The Panthers have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Even though the team lost, they still had their share of impressive performances. One of the best came from Zaiveon Patrick, who rushed for 127 yards on only 13 carries. His longest rush was for an impressive 54 yards, which helps to explain his lofty yards per carry total.
Even if they lost, Chico's defense still kept up the pressure with five sacks. In that department, Gabriel Rodriguez was the leader with two. Ryker James was another major factor on D, making 12 total tackles.
Meanwhile, Elk Grove waltzed into their matchup on Friday with two straight wins... but they left with three. They were the clear victor by a 64-38 margin over the Wolfpack. The Thundering Herd might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won three matches by 26 points or more this season.
It was another big night for David Hale, who rushed for 139 yards and three touchdowns on only seven carries, and also threw for 56 yards and two touchdowns on only five passes. He is on a roll when it comes to rushing touchdowns, as he's now punched in two or more in the last four games he's played dating back to last season. Austin Maze was another key player, rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown.
He was just one part of a punishing run game: Elk Grove was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 435 rushing yards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now rushed for at least 262 rushing yards in four consecutive games.
Elk Grove's defense was in the mix too, especially the secondary: they snagged two passes before it was all said and done. Leading the way was Lance Lewis and his an interception.
Chico's loss dropped their record down to 1-3. As for Elk Grove, they now have a winning record of 3-2.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps