The White Cloud Indians started CSAA Silver play against the Hesperia Panthers on Friday night. It was a thrilling battle between two schools that came in with polar opposite records. In the end, regulation would not be enough. White Cloud would escape with a victory, remaining unbeaten after a 30-27 win.
In the extra frame, White Cloud scored on their possession. Hesperia was unable to match the Indians, as the White Cloud defense held serve on a fourth-and-goal play.
Carl Brown led the White Cloud defense with 8 tackles. Wes Penland added 7 tackles, while Jace Silverthorn and Mason Ruether chipped in 5. Jace Silverthorn led the White Cloud rushing attack with 115 yards and a touchdown. Landyn McGowen added 75 rushing yards. Mason Ruether passed for 197 yards and three touchdowns. Taylor Bode (83 yards), Tray Brunson (66 yards) and Alex Cruzan (30 yards) all caught a touchdown from Ruether.
Hesperia was led by Armando Escobejo and his three touchdowns. Escobejo tossed for two touchdowns and rushed for the third. Travis Kurtz caught both of Escobejo’s touchdown passes, tallying 111 yards on three catches. Brandon Quin led the Panthers’ rushing attack with 125 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries.
White Cloud is now 3-0 and 1-0 in CSAA Silver play. This is the first time that the Indians have won three games in a season since 2016, and their first 3-0 start since 1988. The Indians are hoping to fare better than their 1988 counterparts who lost their final six games. A single win the rest of the way would accomplish that, and give the program their winningest season since 2003. Next week, CSAA Silver play continues. White Cloud will take on Holton, who is currently 1-2 on the year.
Hesperia is now 0-3 under first-year head coach David Smith. They will look for their first win against Lakeview next Friday. The Wildcats are also 0-3, and they have been outscored 139-13.
