Lions Outlast FRC In Thriller, Improve to 3–0

De Anza College remained unbeaten with a hard-fought 35–29 victory over Feather River on Saturday afternoon in a battle of 2-0 teams.

The Mountain Lions showcased offensive firepower, timely defense, and resilience down the stretch to improve their season record to 3–0.

"I was really proud of this team effort," said De Anza head coach Joe D'Agostino.

"That was a tough battle and our guys stepped-up and fought through some adversity. We made some mistakes and probably left some points in the board, but give credit to Feather River - that's one of the best opponents we've faced in the last few years. In the end, our sophomore leaders came through and our freshmen really rose to another level. This is a great program win we need to build on."

First-Half Fireworks

Feather River struck first with a 58-yard touchdown pass just minutes into the game, but the Mountain Lions quickly answered. Freshman RB Ke'Yon Torain powered in from two yards out to tie the score, followed by a 20-yard touchdown strike from freshman QB Ian Kirby to sophomore WR Te'Ron Nix that gave De Anza its first lead at 14–7.

Kirby kept the momentum rolling in the second quarter, finding sophomore WR Jadhari Young for a 26-yard score to extend the lead to 21–7. Feather River battled back with two quick touchdowns, trimming the deficit to 21–20 at halftime.

Back-and-Forth Battle

In the third quarter, freshman RB Isaiah Addison delivered a spark for De Anza with a 3-yard rushing touchdown to make it 28–20. A late safety by Feather River cut the lead to six points entering the final quarter.

The visitors briefly regained the lead in the fourth quarter with a short touchdown run, going ahead 29–28. But Kirby and the Lions responded with their most important drive of the day. He connected with sophomore WR Akeem Wright on an 11-yard touchdown with just over seven minutes remaining, sealing the 35–29 victory.

Offensive Leaders

Kirby had a standout afternoon, completing 22 of 33 passes for 318 yards and three touchdowns. Wright led all receivers with 8 catches for 137 yards and the game-winning touchdown, while Young added 5 receptions for 91 yards and a score. Nix also contributed 50 yards and a touchdown through the air.

On the ground, Addison carried the load with 15 rushes for 135 yards and a touchdown, while Torain added 34 yards and a score. Sophomore tailback Lamy Constant, playing his first game of the season, sparked the backfield with 22 tough yards on his six carries. 

Defensive Highlights

The De Anza defense limited Feather River to just 13 first downs and came up with key plays in crucial moments. Freshman DB My'Zel Brunson grabbed an interception to seal the game, while sophomore LB Hosea Addison recorded a sack. Freshman LB Hosie Hopkins finished with six total tackles.

What's Next

The Lions will look to carry their momentum into next week at College of the Siskiyous (3-0) and continue building one of the strongest starts in program history.