Matt Martz
Special to the Sun

Kern Valley’s defense stepped it up, recovering two fumbles and recording two quarterback sacks on their way to shutting out the Broncos 37-0 on Oct. 30.

“Our team continues to improve,” said Head Coach Jimmy Thompson, “Winning our game against Bishop is always big, but to shut them out was unexpected. We put a lot of time into defensive preparations this week, and it really paid off.”

Kern Valley’s Corey Mixon takes the hand off and makes his way up field behind the blocking of Robert Ochoa.

Kern Valley’s defense, led by Dylen Atkinson with 11 tackles, held their opponents to just 226 yards of offense, while a big push from the Broncs O-line allowed Kern Valley to gain 357 yards rushing in the Oct. 30 contest.

“Our offensive line, in particular our guards, have gotten better each week,” said Thompson,“ Logan (Kraus-Smith) and Robert (Ochoa) both played well, and made some outstanding blocks downfield.”

The Broncs defense recovered a Bishop fumble allowing Kern Valley to strike first midway through the first quarter, when Dylen Atkinson sliced his way into the end zone from the 1-yard out, giving Kern Valley a 7-0 lead.

Atkinson found the end zone two more times, increasing the Broncs lead, 20-0 at halftime.

Kern Valley received the kick off to start the second half, and after marching 53 yards down field, running back Matt Reilly smashed his way in from two-yards out for the score.

Bishop’s offense stalled during their next possession on a seven-play drive forcing them to punt. The Broncs took over at their own 20-yard line and capped off a seven-play drive of their own with a 15-yard touchdown toss from quarterback Kevin Little to Stephen Corcoran, giving Kern Valley a commanding 34-0 heading into the final quarter of play.

The Broncs capped the scoring late in fourth quarter on a 27-yard field goal by Corey Mixon.

Friday’s win ties the Broncs (7-1, 3-0 HDL) with Frazier Mountain for first place in the High Desert League.

Frazier Mountain will play Bishop this Friday. If Frazier Mountain wins, the Broncs will play for the league championship against Frazier Mountain on Nov. 12.

If Frazier Mountain loses, the teams will play for a share of the title.

Kern Valley quarterback Kevin Little completed 2-for-43 for 46 yards passing, while running back Dylen Atkinson racked up 166 yards rushing on 20 carries. Matt Reilly also contributed to the Broncs ground assault with 98 yards on 10 carries.

The Broncs will host Rosamond on Friday.