Panthers Battle in Season Opener, Fall 33-20 at Citrus

The Chaffey College Panthers opened their 2025 season on the road at Citrus College on Saturday, showing grit and production on both sides of the ball but falling 33-20 after a late turnover swung momentum. Despite outgaining the Owls 306 to 210 yards and controlling nearly 50 minutes of possession, the Panthers were derailed by three costly turnovers.

Running back Hakim Halliburton powered the offense, finding the end zone three times on the ground. He carried 18 times for 76 yards, scoring twice from two yards out and once from three yards to keep the Panthers within striking distance all night.

Quarterback Francisco Villalbazo threw for 139 yards on 11 completions and Quarterback Evan Powell added 33 yards. Wide receivers Nathan Enriquez (3 receptions, 76 yards) and Nehemiah Harrison (4 receptions, 64 yards) provided explosive plays downfield to boost the passing game.

Chaffey's defense kept the game within reach, holding Citrus to just 18 rushing yards on 24 attempts. Zyhaire Lewis and Trayshawn Walker each totaled six tackles, while Miking Cash added five stops. Donovan Brown contributed a sack as the unit pressured Citrus throughout the contest.

After falling behind 7-0 early, Chaffey responded immediately with Halliburton's first score to cap a 72-yard drive. The Owls used two field goals and a touchdown off an interception to build a 19-6 halftime lead, but the Panthers rallied in the second half. Halliburton's second and third touchdowns cut the margin to 26-20 with just over five minutes left, before a 90-yard interception return sealed the result for the Owls.

Chaffey finished with 23 first downs to Citrus's 14, converted all three red-zone chances, and doubled the Owls in time of possession. The difference came in turnovers, as the Panthers committed three to Citrus's two.

The Panthers return home on Saturday, September 6 for their 2025 home opener against Santa Ana College. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.