Maxwell football getting back in the groove

After a bumpy start to the 2012 season, Maxwell High's football team has quickly turned things around.

On Sept. 22, the Panthers topped Fall River 37-12 on the road. On Friday, the Panthers rolled Sierra Ridge/Rite of Passage of San Andreas 45-12 at home.

George Barajas was a dual threat passing and rushing, combining for more than 200 total yards and two touchdowns, while Eddie Rangel rushed 11 times for 111 yards and a score and caught Barajas' touchdown pass. He finished with 62 yards receiving.

Maxwell rushed out to a 25-0 halftime lead and the game never seemed to be in doubt as Sierra Ridge's ground game was continually stuffed at the line. The Rams scored their two touchdowns on a kickoff return and a late rushing touchdown.

Blake Vierra scored two touchdowns on the ground and Luis Rolon added another. The two backs combined for nearly 100 yards on the ground. All together the Panthers put up 347 yards rushing.

Santiago Gonzalez added another score for Maxwell, which improved to 3-2 overall.