Colton, CA—Colton earned a home game for round one of the CIF-Southern Section Division 12 playoffs, and they definitely whipped up some home cooking for the Yellowjacket faithful, defeating the Ganesha Giants in a high scoring barn-burner, 73-53.
Koa Regalado shined all night, setting a county record for most touchdowns in a game with nine throwing touchdowns. And as if that wasn’t already enough, the junior phenom also ran for a tenth.
The victory marks Colton’s first playoff win at home in 15 years, since taking the CIF title in 2010. With the win, Colton moves to the division quarterfinals against Bellflower High on Nov. 14.
The offenses of both team marked this game, however Colton’s defense did make some timely plays, forcing a game changing fumble in the first quarter on a kickoff return, and getting several stops in the second half.
“My lineman played great all four quarters,” said head coach Ray Rodriguez. “They did a great job. I know they’re pretty banged up and it’s been a rough few weeks for them and they’re having to move around. So they did a great job. All 6 of them.”
Regalado finished the game with nine touchdown passes. He threw 393 yards on 21-for-28. He also led the team in rushing with 69 total yards and a rushing touchdown.
With all those touchdowns, the team’s receiving core all got in on the love. Jonathan Quiroz led the team with 168 yards and five touchdowns, including a 64 yard bomb in the first quarter. Kalvin Leon also caught three touchdowns and received 134 yards on just four catches. Julian Gonzales had the most receptions of the game, with six, and caught an 18 yard touchdown pass in the fourth to put the game out of reach for the Yellowjackets.
With this win, the Yellowjackets are now on to the second round of the CIF playoffs. They will face Bellflower on Friday night on the road. The forecast calls for rainy weather, so expect a slippery, physical game.
