COD Football Battles in 41–29 Loss to West LA

Despite big plays on both sides of the ball, College of the Desert football (1–2) came up short at home, falling to the West Los Angeles Wildcats (2–1) by a score of 41–29 on Saturday night. Costly penalties and turnovers proved too much to overcome as the Roadrunners dropped their second straight at home.

The matchup marked the seventh all-time meeting between COD and West LA, a series that dates back to 1979 when the Wildcats were known as the Oilers. Desert still holds a 4–3 advantage in the series, including a 3–2 mark in the Coachella Valley.

On offense, sophomore quarterback Oshea Wallace (Cathedral City H.S.) threw for 100 yards and one touchdown on 11-of-26 passing. Sophomore running back Mike Hoechsmann (Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany / Robert-Bosch) provided a spark on the ground with 52 yards on just six carries, highlighted by a 45-yard touchdown run in the first quarter.

Freshman wide receiver Kelby Real Bird (Basha H.S., Chandler, Ariz.) paced the receiving corps with four catches for 56 yards and two touchdowns, scoring in both the second and third quarters. On defense, freshman defensive back Seandamon Moore (Moreno Valley H.S.) made one of the night's biggest plays with a 65-yard interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter. He also recorded seven total tackles, including two solo stops.

The Roadrunners now hit the road for a September 20 matchup against the Santa Monica Corsairs at 6 p.m., where Desert holds a 3–1 all-time series edge. COD will return home on Saturday, September 27 at 7 p.m. for the 38th annual COD–SBVC Challenge Trophy Game, taking on longtime rival San Bernardino Valley at Cathedral City High School.

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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.