UPDATE: The Golden Valley Grizzlies football team has kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 43-28 victory against the West Ranch Wildcats on Friday night at College of the Canyons. Junior Aaron McCormick dominated the field, rushing for 235 yards and scoring four touchdowns.
This victory propels the Grizzlies closer to a coveted playoff berth, marking their chance for the second consecutive season and fourth time in five years. “It was really big,” said McCormick. “We had the mentality of, ‘It’s win or go home,’ which pushed us to give our all.”
With a record of 4-5 overall and 3-2 in league play, Golden Valley now faces a critical showdown against the Saugus Centurions next week. The winner will secure the final automatic playoff spot in the Foothill League, while a loss could eliminate Golden Valley from playoff contention due to their under-.500 record.
Head Coach Dan Kelley emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “Treat next week as a playoff game. If you don’t win, you don’t deserve to be in the playoffs.”
Senior quarterback Jayce Johnson contributed significantly with 116 passing yards and a passing touchdown, alongside another touchdown run. Kelley praised Johnson’s decision-making skills, saying, “He managed the game well and made impressive decisions on run-pass options.”
The Grizzlies took a commanding 22-7 lead at halftime after overcoming an early score from West Ranch. McCormick responded to the Wildcats’ initial touchdown with an 8-yard run, followed by a 9-yard run and a 12-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to senior Anthony Baldoze.
“We’re trying to build momentum with these young guys,” said West Ranch head coach TJ Yonkers. “It’s not always going to go our way, but we focus on the process.”
Despite the loss, West Ranch showed promise with junior Mesziah Ramos scoring a 41-yard touchdown and accumulating 90 rushing yards. The Wildcats end their regular season next week against Canyon, aiming to finish strong.
As the Grizzlies prepare for their decisive clash against Saugus, McCormick’s determination shines through: “Win, win, win,” he declared. The stakes have never been higher for Golden Valley, and the football community is eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their playoff quest.
