Hook, ladder, victory: Foothill tops McLane to cap off nonconference play

Foothill's Ross Griffith wanted to inject fun into the team's match against McLane on Friday, Oct. 2. The coaches and players practiced a hook-and-ladder play for a couple of weeks. Quarterback Johnny Morales executed the play on the first scrimmage, leading to a 67-yard touchdown by senior Turner Knowles. "We’ve been practicing it for the last three weeks and never really felt like we had the opportunity for it," Morales said.

The play set the tone for the game, where Foothill won 37-14, ending nonconference play on a high note. "Our schedule isn't forgiving, so we’re trying to bring guys up to speed," Griffith said. "We’re happy to be 3-2 going into the league, but we also know there’s room for growth." Despite some defensive struggles, the Cougars demonstrated complementary football, capable of moving the ball both on the ground and through the air.

The defense limited McLane to two special teams touchdowns. Senior defensive back Mikey Topper and quarterback Johnny Morales highlighted the team's cohesive effort, with Topper making a crucial interception and Morales connecting with receivers on short passes. Looking ahead to Eastern Athletic League play, the Cougars aim to bring their A-game and win the title at Red Bluff.