San Diego Mesa College improves to 2-0 after defeating Cerritos College 14-10.  Leading up to the game, head coach Gary Watkins knew the team had to be prepared to battle for a full sixty-minutes. He was right, the game was determined with four seconds left in regulation.

Sophomore Jordan Dwyer was named defensive player of the game with two incredible plays to secure the victory for the Olympians. During the Falcons last possession, on second down at the 19-yard line, Cerritos wide receiver Dillon Laurer was able to create space, appearing to be open, until Dwyer was able to get his hands inside and knock the ball away. On the next play, with four seconds remaining, Cerritos quarterback Dylan Eldredge had what appeared to be Gavin Porch open in the corner end zone, but once again, Dwyer closed quickly and once again knocked the ball away, securing the win for the Olympians. 

The defense once again shined, shutting out the Falcons for three quarters. In the season opener, the Olympian defense kept San Bernardino Valley College under 100 yards total offense. "The defense has played outstanding," states Watkins. "Our defense forced a couple of timely turnovers and they got after the quarterback all night. It's great to see them playing so well this early in the year."

On the offensive side of the ball, despite being down 10-7,  with 10:00 minutes left in the third quarter, the team did not panic. Richie Colmenero III took the Olympians on a 9 play, 48 yard drive, resulting in a six yard touchdown reception by Kadep Dior, giving the Olympians a 14-10 lead. "Our team didn't flinch when things were not going our way," adds Watkins. "I told our team at halftime to stay together and let our culture shine. They most definitely did."

Richie Colmenero III was named offensive player of the game, going 7 of 12 for 76 yards with 1 passing touchdown and 1 rushing. Matan Morris led the defense with 8 total tackles (2 solo, 6 assists) and 1 quarterback hit. 

Next up:
The Olympians will host Golden West College on Saturday, September 16. Kickoff is scheduled for a 6:00 p.m. start.