SALEM, Ore. 1 The University of La Verne Leopards men’s football team secured a dominant 45-16 victory over the Willamette Bearcats on September 19, 2026, in Salem, Oregon. Senior running back Tyler McCown led the effort by rushing 31 times for a career-high 230 yards and two touchdowns.
McCown averaged 7.4 yards per carry, surpassing his previous best rushing total of 108 yards. The Leopards offense amassed a total of 519 yards, including 312 rushing yards and 207 passing yards. Quarterback Jordan Hernandez threw for 175 yards and three touchdowns, while Brian Rudden contributed a 32-yard touchdown pass.
Wide receivers Jimmy Rumsey, Kasey Gillis, and Jaden Beals each caught multiple touchdown passes for La Verne. The Leopards established control early, scoring 28 points in the first half and outgaining the Bearcats by a wide margin.
The defense was anchored by Brooklyn Pasten, who led the team with nine tackles. Kicker Jacob Cuevas converted all six extra-point attempts and a 23-yard field goal, completing a perfect day on special teams.
La Verne’s balanced attack and stout defense limited Willamette to just 272 total yards, including only 51 rushing yards. The Leopards improved their record to 2-0 and will face Chapman University on the road next Saturday, September 26, at 7 p.m.
CSB Take
The University of La Verne Leopards showcased a powerful ground game led by Tyler McCown’s career-best rushing performance complemented by an efficient passing attack. Their defense complemented the offense by containing Willamette’s rushing game effectively. Maintaining this balance will be essential as La Verne advances in its SCIAC schedule, starting with next week’s road contest against Chapman University.
Source: Original report
