Tulare Union remains unbeaten, routs Porterville

The Panthers learned first hand why Tulare Union is undefeated this season after the Redskins scored off passes, runs, interception returns and even a punt return to overwhelm Porterville, 64-0 Friday night.

It was just three minutes into the game when the Redskins scored their first touchdown with quarterback James Guerrero and Freddie Vernon connecting on a fade route, scoring from nine yards out.

Union scored every time it touched the ball including a 78-yard touchdown pass by Guerrero near the end of the first half.

Despite what might have been an expected loss to the Redskins, Panther coach Rick Stewart is confident going into the final three games against Cesar Chavez, Granite Hills and Monache.

“We are going to win the last three games,” he said.

Assistant coach Carl Scudder shared Stewart’s optimism about the final stretch of the season. 

“We have three games left that we can win and the wins will put us into good standing heading into the playoffs,” Scudder said.

Despite this loss to Union, the Panthers are 2-1 in the EYL and second place in the league is still within reach.

The Panthers attempted an onside kick on the opening kickoff in an attempt to keep the Redskins’ explosive offense off the field. The Redskins were not fooled and were successful in fielding the short kick.

Union had the ball again after holding the Panther offense to minus three yards on their opening possession. Running back Jontell Reedom scampered into the end zone from 32 yards out for the Redskins’ second touchdown of the evening.

The Panthers were forced to punt on their second possession and the snap sailed over the punter’s head. 

The miscue turned into a safety for the Redskins.

After the safety, Guerrero connected with tight end Jeremiah Green for that 78-yard touchdown pass.

The Panthers’ third possession was looking like it could be three-and-out until quarterback Richie Coppenbarger connected with tight end Tre Davis for a 29-yard pickup and a new set of downs. 

Shortly after, however, Coppenbarger’s pass was intercepted by Redskins defender Dereck Harris who broke free and returned the interception 70 yards for another Union score.

The Redskins had racked up 44 points in the first half and led the Panthers 44-0.

Union’s defense continued to smother the Panthers and they were unable to get anything going offensively.

Reedom scored his second rushing touchdown in the contest with 8:45 left in the third bringing the score to 51-0.

For the remainder of the game, Redskins running back Calvin Haynes was continuously handed the ball as the Redskins chewed up the remaining minutes of the clock.