Claudia CollinsThe Mesa Jackrabbits pulled off the upset after defeating Corona del Sol, 24-21. Mesa head coach Chad DeGrenier and quarterback Manny Pino talked to Sports360AZ about the upset and how all the necessary pieces came together.
The Jackrabbits were the first to score in the first quarter but the Aztecs quickly answered back. Mesa came through with a field goal in the final seconds of the first half to take a 10-7 lead at halftime.
A last second field goal for the Jackrabbits gives them a 1️⃣0️⃣-7️⃣ lead at halftime🐰
#14 taking the lead over the #3 seed as it stands.
Lots of turnovers on downs in the first half. We’ll see what the second half brings. @Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/zZqJiA5G58
— Claudia Collins (@ClaudiafCollins) November 19, 2022
The second half of the game showcased the defense. Griffen Yamamoto came through for the Jackrabbits with a huge interception and special teams later recovered an onside kick to soon extend their lead, 17-7.
🚨TOUCHDOWN MESA🚨
🐇Jackrabbits now lead 1️⃣7️⃣-7️⃣ with 1:30 left in Q3‼️@Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/v4w4TrZjeL— Claudia Collins (@ClaudiafCollins) November 19, 2022
🚨Anotha’ One🚨
🔑looks like Mesa has found the key to the TDs tonight.
2️⃣4️⃣-7️⃣ with 11:03 left to play👇🏽 @Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/EFoenICuDx— Claudia Collins (@ClaudiafCollins) November 19, 2022
Corona del Sol made big plays in the final critical minutes of the first-round playoff game. However, the Aztecs missed a 50-yard field goal on fourth down that would have tied the game with three minutes left on the clock.
🚨TOUCHDOWN AZTECS🚨
Mesa leads 24-21 with 2:16 left to play‼️ @Sports360AZ pic.twitter.com/LmhjoVULSl— Claudia Collins (@ClaudiafCollins) November 19, 2022
The Mesa Jackrabbits will face Red Mountain in the 6A quarterfinals on Nov. 25.
