BAKERSFIELD, CA - The Bakersfield Renegade football team traveled to Long Beach City College and secured a decisive 28-10 victory on September 14, 2024, improving their record to 1-1 on the season. The Renegades used a dominant second-half performance to overpower the Vikings.

Long Beach started strong, scoring a 24-yard field goal and a 29-yard touchdown pass taking a 10-0 lead midway through the first quarter. However, Bakersfield responded with a 13-yard touchdown pass to tight end Cleveland Tolbert from freshman quarterback Malachi Statler, closing the gap to 10-7 by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Bakersfield continued to build momentum, taking a 14-10 lead after sophomore Jalen Hankins punched in a 1-yard touchdown run. The Renegades' defense then took control, holding Long Beach scoreless for the remainder of the game.

The fourth quarter saw BC pull away with a series of key plays. Wide receiver Mekhi Smith scored on a 4-yard run early in the quarter, and although the extra point attempt failed, Bakersfield extended their lead to 20-10. Carlos Villa added two field goals (33 and 22 yards), pushing the score to 26-10.

The defense sealed the victory with a safety, bringing the final score to 28-10. BC's offense put up 389 total yards, with 160 on the ground and 229 through the air. Quarterback Vincent Igoa completed 8 of 16 passes for 153 yards, while Statler went 9 of 12 for 76 yards and a touchdown. The Renegades were led in rushing by Jacoby Pointer, who gained 64 yards on 6 carries.

On defense, the Renegades held Long Beach to just 44 rushing yards and intercepting three passes. Dantonio Hackworth snagged one interception and returned it for 10 yards, while David Stevonson added two more picks.

With solid defense and a balanced offensive attack, BC looks to build on this win as they prepare for their next matchup at San Bernardino City College on Saturday, September 21st.