Vikings running wild to start 2022 season

The Holtville Vikings have tallied 706 yards rushing in the first two games of the season

HOLTVILLE, Calif. ( KYMA, KECY-TV ) - Before the season began, Holtville Vikings head coach Jason Turner said he was looking forward to seeing his run game put into action.

"We’re real excited about our group of running backs," Turner said. "It's not to be just one person, it’s going to be a team effort and I know coaches say that a lot but this is real, we’re relying on our offensive line and a group of running backs."

Through the first two games of the season the Vikings are proving to be the real deal. In the season and home opener the Vikings steamrolled Southwest in a 53-13 win. Holtville amassed 443 yards on the ground with sophomore Hector Sanchez leading the attack with 157 yards and two touchdowns on only five carries. Junior Griffin Garcia added 123 yards and two scores on 13 carries.

"We have a full stable of runningbacks," Turner said. "This year we plan to be under center more and run the ball more than we did a year ago."

The Vikings also have a new quarterback in junior Bryce Buscaglia.

"Our quarterback is a junior, first year starter but really athletic," Turner said. "He's like another runningback if we need him to run. With the guys coming back we’re real confident we’ll put up a competitive season."

This past Saturday the Vikings played the first of three straight home games against teams from Mexico hosting the Zorros of CETYS Tijuana.

"The mexican teams are equivalent to CIF Division 2 schools," Turner said. "We will play the mexico schools for the next two years."

CETYS Tijuana, Ensenada and Mexicali will all make the trip to Birger Field this year.

On Saturday against Tijuana, Holtville again ran wild, this time for 236 yards on the ground in a 41-30 win. Senior Zephan Duarte led the ground attack with 12 carries for 97 yards and a touchdown. Griffin Garcia added 10 carries for 86 yards and a score.

Junior quarterback Bryce Buscaglia was also efficient through the air, completing 5 of 7 passes for for 179 yards and three touchdowns. The first passing touchdowns of Buscaglia's varsity career. All three to different receivers.

The Vikings are now 2-0 on the season and will host CETYS Ensenada this Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at Birger Field in Holtville.