TEMECULA — Chaparral High School’s football team showcased its ability to rebound from past setbacks as they secured a 48-37 victory over Norco in a Big West Conference-North Division game last Friday night. In a match that began with an exchange of turnovers, both teams eventually found their rhythm, producing an electrifying second half.
The Pumas, stung by recent defeats to Mission Viejo and Murrieta Valley, came out strong on their home turf. Dane Weber led the charge with six touchdown passes, contributing significantly to the offense with 385 total yards. Completing 22 of 29 passes for 265 yards, Weber also gained 120 rushing yards on 17 carries. His performance was instrumental in uplifting Chaparral’s spirits following their loss to Murrieta Valley the previous week.
“Trust and belief were key for us,” Weber told the media. “We put our past games behind us and focused on executing plays.” His precision was evident as he connected with Tycen Johnson for three touchdown passes, helping Johnson rack up 90 yards on five catches. Chase Bonta, Kiko Farinas, and Princeton Anderson also made significant contributions to the scoreboard with their receptions.
Despite Chaparral’s early lead, Norco proved their determination. The Cougars erased a deficit to tie the game at 28-28 by halftime, thanks to efforts from quarterback Joseph Stoffel and playmaker Trevor Schneider. Stoffel completed 20 of 27 passes for 219 yards and rushed for 94 yards, making critical plays when it mattered most. Schneider added 75 rushing yards, including a remarkable 57-yard touchdown run.
The second half saw Chaparral capitalize on Norco’s mistakes. On the third play after the break, Chaparral’s Shane Klingelberg forced a fumble from Stoffel, recovered by Justin Selway. Two plays later, Weber and Johnson connected for their third touchdown, reigniting Chaparral’s lead at 35-28. Though Norco responded with a field goal, other penalties hindered their momentum.
Chaparral’s defense, backed by standout performances, kept Norco at bay. One such performance came from Liam Porter, whose efforts against nationally ranked Kameron Brown were pivotal in protecting Weber. Brown has offers from SDSU, WSU, Idaho State, Boston College. Late in the game, as Norco attempted another push, Selway forced another fumble recovered by Kameron Payne. Shortly after, Weber found Bonta along the left sideline for a 37-yard touchdown, sealing the victory.
Chaparral, now 6-2 in the league, will prepare for their upcoming match against Roosevelt on October 24. Meanwhile, Norco, standing at 3-5, will face Centennial on October 25. The Pumas’ ability to leverage turnovers and make strategic halftime adjustments demonstrated their potential to climb higher in the standings as the season progresses.
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