Oct. 30: Pusch Ridge Christian 59, Rio Rico 10
At Rio Rico, Pusch Ridge Christian capped off arguably their greatest and most unexpected season in school history with a dominant win over Rio Rico (4-6). Pusch Ridge was efficient on offense, amassing 523 yards, 394 of it rushing. The defense was equally effective, holding Rio Rico to just 208 yards. Pusch Ridge moved to 9-1 on the season with their lone loss in the first week to Benson, currently the top-ranked team in Division V. Pusch Ridge is currently ranked eighth in Division IV and awaits news of their playoff seeding on Saturday morning.
Highlight reel
Despite the loss, Rio Rico executed a nearly perfect halfback pass in the second quarter when running back Chris Lipscomb tossed a nice spiral to receiver Noe Arellano for a 64-yard gain. The play set up a 32-yard field goal.
Players of the game
The Pusch Ridge offensive line helped two Lions running backs, Tamerat McLeod and Dakota Haynes, score three touchdowns each. The unit has been outstanding this season, and Friday night was no exception.
By the numbers
9. Pusch Ridge's average yardage per carry. Nearly a first down a carry.
He said it
"I've told people this is a storybook-type season. I never would have bet 9-1. We're blessed, we're happy about it, we're grateful, and we're ready to go into the playoffs." - Pusch Ridge coach Troy Cropp
W.P. Russell
