McCoy Helps Lead El Camino Past Grossmont

COSTA MESA — Cory McCoy caught four touchdown passes and rushed for another as El Camino upset Grossmont, 35-34, in the Simple Green Orange County Bowl Saturday at Orange Coast College.

McCoy, a sophomore running back, was selected the game’s most valuable player after catching 11 passes for 170 yards and rushing 11 times for 89 yards. He also completed a 36-yard pass on third down with 1 minute 15 seconds left, which enabled El Camino (8-3) to run out the clock.

McCoy had touchdown receptions of 30, 20, 12 and seven yards. His rushing touchdown came from a yard out. “This was the best game I’ve ever played in by far,” McCoy said.

The winning touchdown was scored when McCoy, who was open along the left side line, caught a 30-yard pass with about four minutes left.

Grossmont (9-2) tried to rally, but El Camino defensive back Juan Jimenez intercepted a pass at his 39 with 2:56 seconds left.

“That was one of the best wins we’ve ever had at this place,” El Camino Coach John Featherstone said.

Grossmont quarterback Akili Smith, a J.C. Grid-Wire first-team All-American this season, completed 16 of 30 passes for 316 yards, two interceptions and one touchdown. He also rushed for two touchdowns.

Grossmont wide receiver Darran Hall caught five passes for 114 yards and teammate Donald Haynes had four catches for 112 yards, including a 73-yarder for a touchdown that put Grossmont ahead, 20-7, with 13:59 left in the third quarter.

El Camino quarterback Damion Ward completed 23 of 41 passes for 323 yards with one interception and four touchdowns.