Waltrip survives comeback, defeats Pasadena

In gridiron action that almost saw an amazing comeback, Waltrip came into Pasadena and left with a win, defeating the Eagles 41-34 at Pasadena Veterans Stadium Sept. 8.

Waltrip had a 34-14 lead in the fourth quarter, but the Eagles scored three touchdowns to make it close. Then, the Rams scored once more to put the game on ice.

The Rams are now 1-0 on the season, making a winner out of coach Anthony Zuccarini in their opening game of the season.

Quarterback Christian Rodriguez connected on 13 of 26 passes for 285 yards and four touchdowns. He was picked off once. Jimmy Mouton controlled the ground game, rushing for 149 yards on just nine carries. He scored on an incredible 88-yard run in the second quarter. Nathan Washington had a big game catching four receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown. Chris Maloney had two touchdown grabs on his only two receptions of the game.

Spartans quarterback Brandon Wyatt was 26 of 53 for 325 yards, throwing three touchdowns and two interceptions in the contest. Running back Eddie Espitia led the team with 10 yards on the ground. Receivers Metrelle Taylor and Uriel Hill both totaled 87 yards and a touchdown.

Overall, Waltrip totaled 403 yards, while Pasadena came away with 344. Waltrip was penalized nine times for 80 yards, while Pasadena was flagged seven times for 53 yards. Waltrip fumbled four times and lost possession three times. Pasadena lost one of its three fumbles.

Waltrip will look to keep the winning going when it visits Sharpstown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13.

Pasadena is now 0-2 and will look to turn things around for coach Jeff Ganske when it hosts Texas City at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14.