Bulldogs Edge Pasadena in Overtime Thriller

A touchdown by freshman running back Jayden Vargas in overtime gave the Hancock Bulldogs a stunning victory over Pasadena College Saturday, Oct. 13.

The Bulldogs never led during the match-up against the Lancers until Vargas' touchdown and it appeared that the Bulldogs' 3-game winning streak would come to an end.

Pasadena controlled the game from kick-off, dominating the ball for most of the first half and scoring on their first two offensive possessions.  

On the other side of the field, the Bulldog's offense struggled mightily, unable to put any points on the board during the first half.

In the 3^rd quarter, the Bulldog's defense stepped-up to avoid the shut-out when freshman DB Seth Matthysse blocked the Lancers punt that was recovered and returned for a touchdown by freshman Jaquez McWilliams. Matthysse would have 2 blocked punts during the game.

On the Lancers next possession, the Bulldogs defense forced another punt that was yet again blocked by Matthysse.

At 2^nd down and goal, Vargas rushed for 5-yards into the end zone, tying the game 14-14.

A drive and score by Pasadena at the beginning of the 4^th quarter would have the Bulldogs once again playing catch-up.

The resilient Bulldogs answered back when freshman quarterback Thomas Carr connected with sophomore running back Isaac Bausley for a 9-yard touchdown with just under 3-minutes remaining in the game.

Tied 21-21, the Bulldogs defense stood its' ground, forcing a turnover on downs with just 27-seconds left on the clock.

The Bulldogs would move the ball 33-yards to get within field goal distance, but Hancock kicker Hector Gil-Garcia was unable to convert, missing the 42-yard attempt wide left.

In overtime, Pasadena would have the first opportunity to score and walk away with the victory. But the stingy Bulldogs defense forced a turnover on downs in just 4 plays.

At 3^rd and 8 at the Pasadena 23-yard line, Vargas would get loose, darting into the end zone for the touchdown and the Bulldogs win. Vargas finished with two rushing touchdowns during the game.

Hancock increases their winning streak to 4 games and is now 5-1. The Bulldogs will face-off against Santa Monica College next Saturday Oct. 20 in Santa Monica, CA.