Panthers Battle in Close 31-27 Loss to Palomar

At the last home game of the season, Chaffey Football team delivered one of its most well-rounded offensive efforts of the season but came up just short in a 31–27 loss to Palomar College on Saturday afternoon at Grigsby Field. The Panthers outgained the Comets 591–370 in total offense and produced several explosive plays but were unable to overcome key turnovers and a pair of Palomar touchdown passes.

Chaffey answered Palomar's early score with an impressive 96-yard drive, capped by a 10-yard touchdown pass from Francisco Villalbazo to Justin Benson late in the first quarter to tie the game at 7-7. After a Palomar field goal made it 10-7, the Panthers marched downfield again midway through the second quarter as Evan Powell connected with Benson for a 34-yard strike, giving Chaffey a 14-10 lead. The Comets responded with a late scoring drive to take a 17-14 advantage into halftime.

Palomar extended its lead in the third quarter on a 48-yard touchdown pass before adding another long connection early in the fourth to go ahead 31-14. Chaffey rallied behind big plays from its veteran playmakers, beginning with a 52-yard rushing touchdown by Powell to trim the deficit to 31-21. On the next possession, Villalbazo found Theodore Edquilang for a 9-yard touchdown to make it 31-27 with just over five minutes remaining. Despite the late push, the Panthers' final drive stalled in Palomar territory.

Powell finished with 326 total yards, including 240 rushing yards on 39 attempts and 86 through the air, while Villalbazo threw for 265 yards and two touchdowns. Benson led all receivers with 68 yards and two scores, while Nathan Enriquez, Brennan White, and Jordan Woods each contributed multiple receptions. Hakim Halliburton added 31 rushing yards, and kicker Mustafa Hnyin converted three extra points.

Defensively, Jason Roberts registered a sack and fumble recovery, while Taylor Chapple-Love, Miking Cash, and Sivaj Dejurnett-Simmons each added quarterback pressures. Donovan Brown and Collin Henry paced the defense with five total tackles apiece.

The Panthers will close the 2025 season on the road next Saturday, Nov. 8, when they travel to face Southwestern College. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.