The Elk Grove Thundering Herd will face off against the Chico Panthers at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. One thing working in Elk Grove's favor is that they have posted at least 31 points in their last four games.
Last Friday, Elk Grove got the win against Cosumnes Oaks by a conclusive 64-38. The Thundering Herd might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won three contests by 26 points or more this season.
David Hale was his usual excellent self, rushing for 139 yards and three touchdowns on only seven carries, while also throwing 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 matchups.
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.
Meanwhile, Chico entered their match against Ukiah last Friday without any home losses, but there's a first time for everything. Chico fell 28-21 to Ukiah. The Panthers have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Despite their loss, Chico saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Zaiveon Patrick, who rushed for 127 yards on only 13 carries, was perhaps the best of all. Patrick's 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. Ukiah's QB won't forget Gabriel Rodriguez anytime soon given he sacked him twice. Ryker James was another major factor on D, making 12 total tackles.
Elk Grove now has a winning record of 3-2. As for Chico, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-3.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
