Felix Figueroa, Gustine

FELIX FIGUEROA

Gustine running back

Felix Figueroa didn't play for the Redskins last fall, when they went 0-10 and scored just 56 points. The senior was in uniform Friday night, however, and what a difference -- both on the field and the scoreboard.

He carried 20 times for 180 yards, scoring all three of his TDs in the first half, to lead the Redskins to a 38-12 win over Riverbank. If Gustine scores 19 points this week against Denair, it will surpass last year's output.

Coach Manuel Bettencourt already senses the change. "This was a big step in bringing the pride back to the players, school, and the community. We have to keep working hard on and off the field to have success."

Figueroa's 13-yard late in the first half gave Gustine an 18-12 lead, then the Redskins reeled off 19 unanswered points in the second half before the celebration began.

"The plays that led to (Felix's) big night were off-tackle plays and sweeps," Bettencourt pointed out. "He was able to get to the second-level and break tackles."

-- RICHARD T. ESTRADA