Despite falling behind in the first quarter, the Carlmont Scots defeated the Mills Vikings 44-42, winning their second game in two weeks.
Throughout the game, the offense was a key factor in the Carlmont win.
“Our offense really came through for us against Mills because our defense was having a lot of trouble stopping three running backs in the second half. Our offense knew that we had to put up a lot of points in the second half to win the game because our defense was struggling,” said senior Charlie Haake.
To start the game, junior Demarri Blanks received the kickoff and ran it to the 35-yard line, giving the Scots strong field position.
“It was a great way to start out the game because it really gave our guys a spark,” said Haake.
The Vikings scored the first touchdown of the night, bringing the score to 7-0 Mills by senior David Tongilava.
The Scots returned with a touchdown by Blanks, 7-7.
Throughout the whole game, the score was very close as both offenses had strong showings.
Carlmont used the speed of their running game and outside routes to move down the field quickly.
Mills Coach Michael Dozier said, “I think our corners did not support us on the outside. We let them get outside too many times. You can’t survive like that.”
Carlmont scored a total of seven touchdowns, four of which were made by Blanks. The remaining three was scored by juniors Henry Reich, Jason Lloyd, and Devon Sagon.
For Mills, Tongilava scored three touchdowns, Junior Sione Langi scored two, and senior Saumane Stanley scored one.
Carlmont defeated Mills last year in the homecoming game on Oct. 23, 2015.
Haake said, “This time [Mills] had more size, talent, and they were well coached. They got a new coaching staff this year like our team.”
Carlmont looks forward to the homecoming game on Oct. 14 against San Mateo High School.
“For us to win next week we need to stay disciplined and staying focused,” said Blanks.
The Scots will have the chance to stretch their winning streak to three games with a win against San Mateo.
“We are treating it like a must-win playoff game. We have to go in knowing that if we lose, our chances of winning the division are much lower, ” said junior Timmy Palthe.