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Foothillers corral Otay for third win
- Updated: September 23, 2025
2025 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL
GROSSMONT 28, OTAY RANCH 20
EastCountySports.com
CHULA VISTA – Grossmont head coach Anthony Lawrence admitted the offense wasn’t at its sharpest Friday night. But with a ferocious defensive front and a trio of playmakers leading the way, the Foothillers still found a way to grind out a 28-20 victory over Otay Ranch.
Quarterback Tyler Holmes once again showed why he’s become the centerpiece of the Grossmont attack. The junior amassed more than 200 yards combined rushing and passing, tossing a pair of touchdowns while keeping the Mustangs’ defense off balance with his legs.
Holmes’ favorite target was AJ Hooker, who delivered a performance that tilted the game. Hooker scored three times—two rushing touchdowns and a scoring catch—while also piling up yardage after contact to extend drives. Randy Ballard provided the other touchdown grab to round out the Foothillers’ scoring.
Grossmont jumped ahead 14-6 in the second quarter on Holmes’ connection to Hooker, but Otay Ranch answered to cut the margin to 14-12. That’s when the Foothillers’ defense began to assert itself.
The defensive line controlled the trenches throughout the second half, generating constant pressure that led to turnovers. Kai Jones recovered two fumbles while also racking up nine tackles.
Drew Sasena was equally disruptive, finishing with eight tackles, including 3½ for a loss. In the secondary, Gage Weichelt came up with a key interception to stop a Mustang rally.
“We played poorly on offense but defense were able to contain them and keep us in the game,” Lawrence said after his team improved to 3-1.
The win helped Grossmont bounce back after last week’s loss at La Jolla, and it sets up a pivotal matchup at home next Friday against Mira Mesa.
The Hillers and Marauders saw plenty of each other last season—Grossmont edged Mira Mesa 32-28 in the regular season before rolling to a 49-24 victory in the opening round of the Division I playoffs.
With Holmes’ continued growth, Hooker’s versatility, and a defensive front that looks more dangerous by the week, the Foothillers will enter the rematch with momentum as the favorite between a pair of 3-1 teams.
