YORBA LINDA – Esperanza’s stable of running backs had plenty of lanes to choose from on Thursday night.
With Brett Mullins, Patrick Campos and Connor McKeen sharing the bulk of the carries, each Aztec ball carrier looked fresh when his number was called.
Esperanza’s three-headed attack ultimately shredded the Canyon defense for four touchdowns and 395 yards rushing in a 33-20 nonleague victory at Yorba Linda High.
Mullins led all rushers with 196 yards on 20 carries. Campos added 115 yards on 21 handoffs, and McKeen chipped in with 65 yards on 10 carries.
“We started out a little bit slow, but we kept to our guns and imposed our will on them,” said Aztecs coach Gary Bowers after the game. “Our offensive line opened up some huge holes. They’ve been working their rears off, so I’m glad they got to come out here tonight and reap the benefits.”
Esperanza (1-3) forced five turnovers, four of which came in the second half after the Aztecs took a 17-13 edge into the break.
On Mullins’ third carry of the second half, the senior raced past the Canyon (0-4) defense for an 82-yard score, giving Esperanza a 24-13 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Comanches quarterback Jason Harman threw for a career-high 274 yards and two touchdowns in the losing effort, the second coming with 2:34 left in the game, cutting the Aztecs lead to 27-20.
Campos ended any hope of a comeback on the ensuing drive, breaking several tackles on his way to a 38-yard touchdown run.
Esperanza’s Jameson Medellin made two interceptions.
Contact the writer: kconnolly@ocregister.com
