Canyon Springs Dominates Southwest EC 49–0 in Season Opener

The Canyon Springs Cougars opened their 2025 season with a statement, steamrolling the Southwest EC Eagles in a 49–0 shutout that left little doubt about their talent, preparation, and dominance. The night started with fireworks when Jordan Murray broke loose for a 40-yard punt return touchdown, sparking the Cougars’ sideline and sending a clear message that Canyon Springs came ready. From there, the Cougars unleashed a relentless attack. Running backs carved through the Eagles’ defense, highlighted by a pair of powerful rushing scores that widened the margin in the second quarter. Quarterback play was equally sharp, with timely completions that kept drives alive and showcased the balance of an offense capable of beating teams on the ground and through the air. The Cougars’ offensive line controlled the trenches, creating running lanes and giving their backfield time to execute. By halftime, Canyon Springs had built an insurmountable lead, finishing drives with efficiency and refusing to let up. The second half became a clinic in execution, with big plays in both phases. The passing attack delivered touchdowns through the air, while the defense turned turnovers into points, including a highlight pick-six from David Garza that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Every possession, every snap, and every player contributed to a lopsided performance that reflected preparation and hunger.

What separated Canyon Springs was not just talent, but the ability to dominate in all three phases of the game. Offensively, the Cougars scored in nearly every way possible: punt return, rushing, passing, and defense. Adrian Hernandez added a bruising rushing touchdown, while the aerial attack shined with Eyan Quinones and Andre Larry both hauling in long scoring passes, including Larry’s spectacular 60-yard reception that sealed the game’s highlight reel. On defense, the Cougars suffocated Southwest EC, limiting them to minimal yards and forcing mistake after mistake. The defensive front consistently won at the line of scrimmage, collapsing the pocket and shutting down running lanes. The secondary proved opportunistic, with Garza’s interception return for a touchdown being the exclamation point of the night. Special teams, often overlooked, set the tone with Murray’s early punt return score and clean execution on all extra-point attempts by Edwin Miranda, who went perfect on the night. This balance across offense, defense, and special teams showed Canyon Springs is more than talented — they’re complete.

After the game, the Cougars’ players and coaches celebrated not just the win but the statement it made. Head Coach emphasized the importance of preparation, discipline, and teamwork, praising how each unit played its part. “This is what happens when everyone trusts the game plan,” he said. Murray credited his blockers for springing him loose on the punt return, while Larry described his touchdown as “all about execution and trust.” Garza, who delivered the pick-six, downplayed his role and pointed to the defensive effort as the true key to the shutout.

Looking ahead, Canyon Springs carries momentum and confidence into Week 2. This 49–0 performance wasn’t just a win; it was a warning to opponents across the region. The Cougars have playmakers at every position, a defense capable of shutting down any attack, and a special teams unit that can flip a game instantly. More importantly, they have belief — in their preparation, their coaches, and each other. If opening night was any indication, the Cougars aren’t just chasing wins this year. They’re chasing championships.