What started as a defensive struggle turned into a 26-6 Rockridge win over Newman in a state-ranked battle in the Three Rivers Rock.

Cullen Schwigen threw for two touchdowns and ran for another as the Class 2A Associated Press second-ranked Rockets (5-0, 3-0) took control of the division and handed the Comets (4-1, 2-1) their first loss.

Rockridge coach Sam Graves also tied Rick Amy’s school record of 80 career wins with the victory.

Newman, ranked third in 1A, was shut out after taking a 6-0 lead on a 58-yard run by Matthew Blackert midway through the second quarter.

The Rockets took advantage of one last possession before halftime as Schwigen hit Owen Steele for a 46-yard reception. Schwigen’s four-yard plunge helped give Rockridge a 7-6 lead with just 17 seconds before halftime.

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