Vista 35, Del Norte 0

Week 7 of the Prep Pigskin Report brought you a match up between the Vista Panthers (2-3) and the Del Norte Nighthawks (3-2). The Panthers traveled to Del Norte to take on the Nighthawks for their Homecoming game and while a Homecoming King and Queen were crowned, Del Norte was not crowned the winner of this game. The Panthers would go on to beat the Nighthawks 35-0.

Overall it was a tough night offensively for Del Norte. Every time a play was completed that had potential to lead to a touchdown, such as the 16 yard pass to Quenton Meeks to the 44 yard line, the Vista defense was right there to stop the Nighthawks and force a turnover on downs. Not only did the Panther’s defense stop the running game, but they also eliminated most of the passing game as well. They had four interceptions against Del Norte Quarterback Parker Lappin, and two of these turnovers set up touchdowns for Vista’s offense.

Quarterback Nate Johnson had success against the Del Norte defense when it came to running the ball himself on the quarterback keeper. However, Johnson did not do it alone. Wide receiver Ryan Lasua had two touchdowns on the night, including a 26-yard run to put the Panthers on the scoreboard 7-0 in the first quarter. Then it was running back Anthony Kuchinsky, making his presence known as he also had two touchdowns on the night, with a 30-yard touchdown run and a 2-yard touchdown run. With both teams coming off of a bye week, it appeared the Panthers were better rested than the Nighthawks.

With the Del Norte Nighthawks now 3-3 on the season they will travel next week to San Marcos to face the undefeated Knights at San Marcos High School. As for the Panthers, who are now 3-3, they will travel to El Camino High school to face the 5-1 Wildcats. Be sure to tune in next week to the KUSI Prep Pigskin Report, San Diego County’s home for prep football highlights and features!