It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but the Escalon Cougars had no problem doing just that on Friday. They won a contest that couldn't have been any closer, slipping by the Tigers 36-35. Escalon's victory was all the more impressive since Patterson was averaging only 16.92 points allowed on the season.
Leading Escalon to victory were Donovan Rozevink and Sam Jimenez. Rozevink threw for 239 yards and four touchdowns, while Jimenez picked up 128 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Rozevink has been hot recently, having posted three or more passing touchdowns the last four times he's played.
Escalon's defensive line stepped up as well, laying out the QB three times. Leading the way was Nico Franzia and his two sacks.
When it comes to explaining why Patterson lost, one person who can't be blamed is Jeremiah Lugo. Despite the final result, he rushed for 163 yards and four touchdowns, and also caught a touchdown.
The win was the ninth in a row for Escalon, bringing their record for this year to 12-1. They've been dominating during the games in that stretch too, as they've won by an average of 22.56 points. As for Patterson, their defeat dropped their record down to 11-2.
Escalon will head out on the road to face off against Acalanes at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Acalanes' defense has only allowed 14.2 points per game this season, so Escalon's offense will have their work cut out for Escalon. Patterson does not have any more games scheduled as of now.
