In a Friday night showdown to claim possession of the Elkhorn Cup, the Rio Linda Knights delivered a thunderous 63-14 victory over the Foothill Mustangs. Continuing a trend of dominance in this rivalry, the Knights left no doubt, effectively putting the game on ice by halftime with a commanding 42-6 lead.
The Knights’ offense was an absolute juggernaut, a punishing ground game that churned out an eye-popping 475 rushing yards. The dynamic duo of QB Louis Means and RB Joseph Corey were the engines of this unstoppable machine. Means, with just eight carries, galloped for 125 yards and a hat trick of three touchdowns. Not to be outdone, Corey matched the three-touchdown performance with 106 yards on only seven carries.
Joseph Corey came out of the gate on fire, setting the tone for the entire game. He wasted no time, scoring two of his three touchdowns on the Knights’ first two plays from scrimmage. His first touchdown was a breakaway run from about the 50-yard line on the very first play from scrimmage for Rio Linda. But he was just getting started. On Foothill’s next possession, Corey showed his two-way talent, causing and recovering a fumble. He then capitalized immediately, rumbling 30 yards on the very next play for his second touchdown. This explosive start put the Knights up 14-0 with plenty of time left in the first quarter, proving that this senior campaign for Corey could be a truly special one.
The rushing attack was a true team effort, with Joseph Kalanui also getting in on the action, rumbling for 58 yards and a touchdown of his own. This ground-and-pound display is becoming a staple for the Knights, who have now rushed for at least 155 yards in six consecutive games, a streak stretching back to last season.
Senior RB Zyon Turner got in on the action in the 2nd half, in relief of Joe Corey, picking up 89 yards. Junior Caden Brown picked up his first TD of the season, a 55 yard sprint in the 4th quarter.
But the Knights weren’t just a one-trick pony. The aerial attack was efficient, with Louis Means completing two of his three passes for 74 yards and a touchdown, earning a stellar QB rating of 149.3. Imara Bell and Messiah Mahomes were the beneficiaries, each hauling in a reception for 40 and 34 yards, respectively, with Bell scoring a touchdown. The team’s total yardage for the game was a whopping 549.
On the other side of the ball, the Rio Linda defense was an impenetrable wall, wreaking havoc in the Foothill backfield with three sacks. Joseph Kalanui was a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball, not only scoring on offense but also registering a sack on his own. The defense also snagged a key interception, with Jessie Miralrio returning it for a critical 34-yard gain.
For Rio Linda, this decisive win not only puts an end to a four-game road losing streak but also boosts their record to 2-2. Meanwhile, Foothill is now mired in a three-game skid, falling to 1-3.
Both teams will have to pack their bags again for their next matchups. The Knights will embark on their first conference test, traveling to face Natomas at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. As for the Mustangs, they will look to turn their fortunes around on the road against Lincoln at 7:15 p.m. on Friday.
(photos are being processed- they will come later today)
