COD Football uses two Pick-6’s to grab 1st win over Dons, 34-7

COD (2-8; 2-3) had a "Pick-6" to open the game and another in the 2nd quarter, as the Roadrunners knocked off Santa Ana for the 1st time in program history, defeating the Dons (7-3; 3-2), 34-7.

The Roadrunners played against Santa Ana for the first time in program history in 2010 and hold a 1-6 overall record against them. Desert has a 1-2 record against the Dons in Palm Desert.

Freshman quarterback Thomas Ansley (La Quinta H.S.) led all rushers with 60 yards on 20 carries, giving him a 3rd straight game of 20 or more carries and 4th on the season. Sophomore defensive back Jaylen Carter (Dearborn Heights (MI) Robichaud) had a kickoff return and 2 punt returns, in addition to 11 total tackles, 4 solo, and a broken-up pass. Sophomore defensive back Jacob Castaneda (Palm Desert H.S.) led all tacklers with 12 total tackles, 2 solo and freshman quarterback Jared Degraffenreid (New Madison (OH) Tri-Village) led all passers with his most yards of the season, 120 yards on 9 of 14 passing and a score. Sophomore wide receiver Dejon Packard (Phoenix (AZ) Camelback) led all receivers with a career high 96 yards on 4 catches. Sophomore kicker Dylan Armendariz (Palm Springs H.S.) tied a career high and set a season high in points scored with 10, which included 4 extra points and 2 field goals. Armendariz hit a 46-yard field goal that hit the base of the uprights and went over for his longest of the season and second longest of his career. Freshman defensive back De'Angelo Thomas (West Bloomfield Township (MI) H.S.) grabbed his 5th interception of the season, this time it was a "Pick-6" with 9:42 left in the 2nd quarter, giving the Roadrunners a 21-0 lead. Sophomore defensive back Jaden McCray (Palm Desert H.S.) grabbed his 4th pick of the season, this time on the opening drive of the game. He turned a 3rd and 9 into six points for Desert, scampering 48 yards to pay dirt.

The next match-up for the Roadrunners will be September 6, 2025.

Follow COD Athletics on Twitter @COD_Athletics Instagram @COD_Athletics or Facebook @College of the Desert Athletics

For additional information, please contact the COD Sports Information Office at 760.423.6641.

Information & Story provided by COD Sports Information. Photo by Dale Beck Photography.