Dodge City dominates Wichita West in rain-shortened opener

DODGE CITY–Dodge City used a strong rushing attack balanced with stout run defense at Memorial Stadium Friday en route to a 34-6 win over Wichita West in a game ended in the third quarter because of lightning.

The Red Demons utilized three different quarterbacks, but Kaden Garvalena was given the bulk of the snaps under center. He led Dodge City, completing 5-of-8 passes for 48 yards and two scores. Garvalena added two more scores on the ground, also leading the Demons in rushing yards with 67.

Vincent Ortiz and Isaiah Taylor both hauled in touchdown passes for Dodge City. Five different receivers combined to make seven completions in the contest.

Dodge’s run defense was lockdown as well, limiting Wichita West for a game-total -28 rushing yards. The Pioneers didn’t run a play longer than seven yards on the ground all night.

Zahmere Jackson completed 10-of-24 passes for 167 yards and the lone touchdown for Wichita West, which came on a 70-yard connection to Brandon Busher in the second quarter.

With approaching thunderstorms, the game was terminated halfway through the third quarter.

Dodge City improves to 1-0 with the win and notched their second-consecutive season-opening victory.

The Red Demons return to action next Friday when they travel to Junction City. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.