Football wins its 3rd straight game

The No. 1 ranked Pierce College football team of the Southern California American Division won its third straight game Saturday, Nov. 2, keeping the team atop its conference.

The Brahmas defeated Antelope Valley College in Lancaster by a 22-13 score, giving Pierce a 7-1 overall record and 5-0 in conference play to stay ahead of Santa Monica College, who is right on Pierce’s heels with a 6-2 record and is also 5-0 in conference after beating Santa Barbara College on Saturday.

Again, it was Pierce’s defense that carved the way for the Brahmas to continue its winning ways as the team totaled five sacks, two forced fumbles — which were also recovered by the defense — and one interception that was returned for 41 yards. The defense also blocked an extra point try, which was returned 98 yards for a safety.

Despite losing, Antelope Valley gave Pierce a tough fight leading through the first half and retook the lead for a short period in the third quarter before Pierce took over for good.

The Marauders’ defense was able to neutralize Pierce’s run game, holding the team to 14 net rushing yards. Antelope Valley was also able to get two interceptions, recovered one fumble and sacked the quarter back three times, but had no answer to the aerial attack.

Quarterback Nick Arbuckle threw for 358 yards and two touchdowns but threw two picks as well. His longest pass was to running back Calvin Howard who took it for 77 yards.

Sophomore receiver Shaquan Hall put on an outstanding offensive performance leading the team with 81 reception yards on seven catches. Hall was also a red zone target for Arbuckle scoring the Brahmas only two touchdowns for the game.

Pierce will be riding the momentum of its current winning streak back home to Shepard Stadium where they will face off against a tough Santa Monica team on Saturday, Nov. 8. Santa Monica has won its last five games and will be looking to overtake Pierce in the conference standings.