The Montezuma-Cortez Panthers got a tally in the win column on Friday with a 26-14 win over Ignacio.
Senior quarterback Cordell Ridings led the way with three touchdowns. Ridings rushed for 60 yards and two scores, and was efficient throwing the ball, completing 12-of-16 passes for 140 yards and one passing touchdown.
Junior running back Colby Baer got the Panthers’ offense started with a 72-yard touchdown run on their second play, and junior receiver Josh Ramos led the team with three catches and a receiving touchdown.
The Panthers defense was led by Baer and junior Tanner Desrosiers, who each had 10 total tackles, and senior Victor Perez and junior Elisha Vaquera pressured the Bobcats’ quarterback, with Perez recording one sack and Vaquera two.
By forcing turnovers and punts, the Panthers were able to control the ball for most of the evening.
Freshman Tyler Wilson and senior Austin Bayles each pulled down interceptions, Bayles also forced a fumble and Desrosiers recovered two Bobcats’ fumbles.
After recording their first win of the season, the Panthers will begin conference play on Friday against Gunnison.
