UPDATE: The Golden Valley Grizzlies football team kept their playoff dreams alive with a crucial 43-28 victory over West Ranch on Friday night at College of the Canyons. Junior Aaron McCormick dominated the field, racking up 235 rushing yards and scoring four touchdowns, propelling his team closer to a playoff berth for the second consecutive season.
With this win, the Grizzlies (4-5, 3-2) are now set for a dramatic showdown against the Saugus Centurions next week, where victory will secure their place in the playoffs. “It’s win or go home,” McCormick stated, emphasizing the high stakes as his team prepares for the decisive match.
The urgency of next week’s game cannot be overstated. Should Golden Valley lose, they will miss the playoffs due to their under-.500 record, while Saugus, already over .500, would advance as an at-large team. Head coach Dan Kelley warned his players that they must treat the upcoming game as a playoff clash. “If you don’t win, you don’t deserve to be in the playoffs,” Kelley declared.
In Friday’s match, the Grizzlies took control early, leading 22-7 at halftime after initially falling behind. McCormick scored his first touchdown with an 8-yard run, followed by a 9-yard touchdown and a 12-yard pass from quarterback Jayce Johnson to senior Anthony Baldoze. Johnson contributed significantly with 116 passing yards, completing 10 of 14 attempts, and adding a rushing touchdown of his own.
Kelley praised Johnson’s performance, highlighting his decision-making and ability to manage the game effectively. “He gets better every week,” Kelley noted, reflecting on Johnson’s growth as a quarterback.
West Ranch struggled despite their efforts, with junior quarterback Blake Johnson connecting with junior Charlie Samuelson for a 42-yard touchdown early in the game. The Wildcats (2-7, 1-4) faced setbacks, including a critical turnover on downs late in the first half. Coach TJ Yonkers acknowledged that while the game didn’t go as planned, his team is focused on building momentum for the future.
Emerging stars for West Ranch included junior Mesziah Ramos, who rushed for a 41-yard touchdown and totaled 90 yards on 13 carries. Blake Johnson also shined with a 44-yard completion to senior Aidan Lynch and a 5-yard touchdown pass to sophomore Dylan Williams.
Looking ahead, Golden Valley aims to solidify their playoff position against Saugus, while West Ranch will conclude their regular season against Canyon. With both teams eager for victory, the stage is set for a thrilling finale.
As McCormick put it, “Win, win, win.” The urgency to secure a playoff spot drives the Grizzlies forward, and fans can expect an electrifying showdown next week.
Stay tuned for updates as the playoff picture continues to evolve!
