COD Football Closes 2025 Season with Thrilling 47–45 Win Over Monarchs

The College of the Desert Football team (4–6; 3–2) wrapped up the 2025 season on a high note, edging out the Los Angeles Valley Monarchs (3–7; 2–3) in a 47–45 shootout in Valley Glen. The victory marked COD's third consecutive win over the Monarchs and capped the season with several standout individual performances.

The Roadrunners came out strong, jumping to an early first-quarter lead before heading into halftime trailing by just two points, 33–31. A dominant third quarter shifted the momentum back in COD's favor — and the Roadrunners held on down the stretch to secure their first win against the Monarchs in three seasons.

Freshman quarterback Noah Vaughn-Israel (Palos Heights [IL] Alan B. Shepard) had a career day, throwing for 317 yards and three touchdowns on 22-of-36 passing while adding 160 rushing yards and a score on 19 carries.

Anchoring the offensive front, freshman lineman Jayden Cottonwood (Murray [UT] H.S.) and the entire Roadrunner offensive line kept the Monarchs' defense in check, paving the way for a balanced and explosive offensive effort.

Sophomore running back Mike Hoechsmann (Ulm [GER] Robert-Bosch) contributed 88 yards on 19 carries, powering through tackles and helping COD control the tempo on the ground.

Defensively, the Roadrunners made key stops when it mattered most. Freshman defensive end Tyrese McKneely (Palm Desert H.S.) recorded three total tackles and a sack for a 12-yard loss. Freshman inside linebacker Donte Winfrey (Rancho Mirage H.S.) led the team with seven total tackles (six solo) and a half-sack, while freshman outside linebacker Ayden Ogilvie (Twentynine Palms H.S.) added a solo tackle in the win.

The victory capped a season of growth and resilience for the Roadrunners, who finished with three conference wins and plenty of momentum heading into the offseason.

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For additional information, please contact the COD Sports Information Office at 760.423.6641.

Information & Story provided by COD Sports Information. Photo by Dale Beck Photography.