Varsity football defeated Aragon High School 47-8 to clinch a spot in the Central Coast Section (CCS) playoffs and improve to 6-2 on the year and 3-1 in Peninsula Athletic League De Anza division play on Friday, Oct. 25.
After a loss to King’s Academy on Oct. 17, the Panthers responded with a statement win against the Dons. It was the squad’s relentless defense that translated into strong offensive numbers. Burlingame scored three touchdowns in the first quarter and didn’t take their foot off the gas, scoring another 20 points in the second quarter to take a 40-0 lead at halftime.
The Panthers tacked on another score in the third quarter and controlled the remainder of the game, only allowing one touchdown in the fourth quarter.
The Panthers’ defense forced multiple Aragon turnovers, including a fumble recovery for a touchdown scored by senior Jadyn Vea. The offense converted these turnovers into six other touchdowns throughout the game, scored by five other Panthers including senior running back Cole Hardtke, receiver Jake Flood, running back Lucas Kirk, junior quarterback Nick Armstrong, and running back Ciaran Baker. The game also featured a balanced offensive attack, scoring three passing and three rushing touchdowns each.
“This team is one of the closest teams I’ve ever been on, which is just great. We knew that if we just took care of ourselves and didn’t worry about who was on the other side of the line, everything would work out,” senior quarterback Luke Levitt said.
The victory was a complete team effort but spearheaded by Levitt and Hardtke.
“Every single guy got in, that’s kind of what it’s about,” Levitt said.
While excited about the blowout win, Hardtke is focused on preparing for a stretch run before the playoffs begin.
“I want this season going as long as possible. And we got bigger plans,” Hardtke said.
This win was especially meaningful on senior night and brought out emotion.
“It was very emotional. I had tears walking out, but this is the best possible scene I can imagine,” Hardtke said.
Reflecting on his time with the team, senior Luke Levitt is focused on savoring every moment of the last few games.
“I’ve been walking down with my parents just like, I’ve been thinking about that since I was younger. And it’s like the fact that it’s finally here, it’s hard to process,” Levitt said.
Hardtke expressed gratitude and appreciation for what playing on the team meant to him.
“I can’t even describe it with words. Four years playing football, most memorable four years of my life, my relationships I formed with my teammates. It’s like a brotherhood, the coaches I’ve all had. It’s mentors to me, friends, like more than coaches off the field, on the field, and it’s one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Hardtke said.
But the Panthers aren’t done yet. The team now looks ahead to their next matchup on the road against Capuchino High School on Saturday, Nov. 2, in the final league game as the Little Big Game and CCS playoffs await.
“We control our own density in this league…we’re going to be ready,” Hardtke said.
