To Me, “Ugly” Is a Loss!

When I see and hear the word “ugly” tossed around loosely after an Aztec victory, it stops me cold. To me “ugly,” if ever used about football, means a LOSS!

Granted, our 27-20 win at Air Force last night was not a Rembrandt in some respects. But it had several very impressive results — especially the W that makes us start 2-0 in the MWC, and now 3-3 overall, after an 0-3 start. Consider just a few of the many bright spots…
 
A 21-0 outburst in the 4th quarter, capped by Donnel “DJ” Pumphrey’s brilliant 10-yard TD run, and a vital 2-point conversion pass from Quinn Kaehler to Tim Vizzi. And remember, Pumphrey is a true freshman.

This 3-TD production wiped out an Air Force 14-point lead.

Eric Judge, another freshman (and fellow San Diego High alum), made a classic catch-and-run for a 44-yard TD.

Pumphrey’ s whole game was impressive. A total of 117 net yards — his third straight 100-yard game. A 6.9-yard average per carry. Another long run added to his list — this one going for 47 yards.

Ezell Ruffin had another big night with 6 catches for 108 yards, the longest going 62 yards.

Ezell Ruffin on his 62-yard TD reception (Photo by Ernie Anderson)

On the defensive side of the ball, the Aztecs virtually shut down the Falcons’ storied running game. One of the top rushing teams in the country, averaging nearly 300 yards a game going into this game, they totaled only 169 yards, while the Aztecs ran for 214.

Another hallmark of the Falcons’ game always has been dominating time of possession. Again, the Aztecs turned the tables. We had the ball for 33:18 minutes; AFA, only 26.42.

Also remember that visiting teams seldom come back late in the game when playing there at almost 7,000 feet. Their longtime coach Fisher deBerry always claimed “never,” even though the Aztecs have done it before.

So… A perfect game? No. But definitely NOT “ugly”?

A nice added touch to the evening was Ronnie Hillman coming to add his support. He had been the key factor in the Aztecs’ big win there two years ago. It was fun to watch him being warmly greeted by old friends and teammates. I have to believe his appearance at halftime gave a productive lift to the team.

I'm fortunate to stand between two Aztec legends: RB Ronnie Hillman (2010-11) and QB Don Horn (1965-66) at the Air Force game (Photo by Ernie Anderson)

Go Aztecs!