El Camino College’s football team delivered an impressive performance on October 7, 2023, achieving a remarkable victory against Palomar College with a final score of 45-31. The Warriors displayed an explosive offense, accumulating a staggering total of 673 yards, including 469 rushing yards and 204 passing yards. Despite a tense fourth quarter, during which Palomar rallied from a 21-point deficit, El Camino secured the win with a series of crucial plays.
The game started strong for the Warriors, who quickly established a commanding lead. Quarterback Andrew Maushardt connected with Cameron Brewer for an 11-yard touchdown pass just two minutes into the game, followed by a 23-yard field goal from kicker Christian Miranda, putting El Camino ahead 10-0. However, the momentum shifted as Palomar began to fight back, narrowing the score to 17-10 by halftime after a fumble recovery threatened El Camino’s lead.
According to El Camino head coach Gifford Lindheim, the game presented numerous challenges. “We were in a dogfight tonight against Palomar,” he stated. “We had a huge goal-line stand just before halftime, which was crucial in maintaining our lead.”
The Warriors showcased a standout performance from running back Damonte Bias, who rushed for a record-breaking 266 yards on 22 carries. This achievement surpassed the previous single-game rushing record of 263 yards set by Delvon Flowers in 1998. Bias’s most significant play came late in the fourth quarter when he executed a decisive 62-yard run that helped set up a touchdown pass from Nazarus Williams to Jaden Moore, extending the Warriors’ lead to 45-31.
Jaden Moore also made his mark on the game, rushing for 184 yards and scoring two touchdowns. After a strong third-quarter touchdown run by Bias, Palomar responded with a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Bubba Garcia, igniting a comeback effort that brought them within striking distance.
Despite the pressure, El Camino maintained composure. Moore reflected on the team’s resilience, stating, “I had to overcome a little bit of adversity with my fumbles and get my head right. When they got close, we just talked to the team, and our guys were able to finish it out.”
El Camino’s record-setting night included a team record of 469 rushing yards, surpassing the previous high of 343 yards established in 2021. The Warriors improved their season record to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in conference play, while Palomar fell to 1-6 and 0-4.
As the season progresses, the Warriors aim to build on this momentum, treating each game as a new opportunity for success. With a mix of skill, determination, and teamwork, El Camino College football is poised for a promising remainder of the season.
