CHEZ NIETO (33) romps for a long gain against Mt. San Jacinto College on Oct. 31. GWC won, 49-21.
Photos and story By Mark Samala
Western Sun staff writer
“Put everything in the mix and this is the outcome,” said Quarterback Mike VanDeripe of the Rustlers’ 66-0 win against Compton College and 49-21 win over Mount San Jacinto College.
Now with four straight wins, the Green and Gold travel up the Mountain Conference ranks with a 4-1 record and a 4-4 overall.
“We’ve overcome a lot of obstacles,” says Head Coach Nick Mitchell “the defense has given the offense more opportunities on the field.”
During the homecoming matchup on Oct. 24, GWC poured it in the victory against Compton College. With kicker Eric Torres posting the first points on the scoreboard, defensive back Bernard Williams then followed with the Rustlers first touchdown with a 25-yard return interception during the first period.
“The defense drew in a better game, “ said offensive coach Charlie Stansbury, “giving the offense plenty of game time on the field.”
Mixing up plays with both rushing and passing, the offensive line paved the way for a smoother game. With a total of 430 yards on offense, GWC gained the upper hand on the field due to the contribution of a better defensive line.
With Compton College already struggling on their game, the Rustler’s defense was able to hold them back with only 149 yards on offense.
“We knew that Compton was at a struggling point,” said Mitchell, “so we took that opportunity to dish out different plays.”
On Saturday, against MSJC, the Rustlers posted another victory with a mix up in their offensive strategy.
“Now the communication is better,” says wide receiver Blake Bryce.
Bryce became a go-to man during the first period of the game, with 54 yards and 5 catches, capped by a 13-yard touchdown pass. He then added another widened the lead 14-0 with a 17-yard touchdown pass from VanDeripe.
“The offense did an excellent job taking control of the field,” said Mitchell.
However, during the second quarter with a misread assignment, MSJC intercepted the ball for a 90-yard touchdown return.
“It was a misread,” said Aldodius Colquit. “It happens.”
Running Back Harold Williams later during the second half took advantage of a better playing offensive team and rushed in a 33-yard touchdown, capping a four-play drive.
Keeping up with a stonewall defense, GWC held back MSJC with only 260 yards to their offense; while the Rustlers offense piled u[ 499 yards in the win.
“Linebacker Preston Margain and defensive lineman Nate Langi have been two big contributors to the defense line,” said defensive coordinator David Robinson.
The next two games for the Rustlers will be home games at LeBard Stadium. This Saturday, GWC will face off against San Bernardino Valley College and on Nov. 14 against San Diego Southwestern.
CHRIS SPENCER shakes off a tackler against Mt. San Jacinto College
WIDE RECEIVER Blake Bryce (8) makes a catch and Matt James (84) levels a would-be tackler in action against Mt. San Jacinto College.
