Broncbusters Overcome Turnovers, Grind Out Win at Highland

Photo by: Adam Shrimplin/Garden City Athletics

Highland, KS — It wasn't pretty, but the Garden City Broncbusters found a way. Despite a season-high nine fumbles, Garden City escaped Highland with a hard-fought 20–13 victory on Saturday afternoon, improving to 6–3 overall and 3–2 in KJCCC play.

Early Chaos, Defensive Spark

The opening quarter featured a flurry of miscues before Garden City finally broke through. Quarterback DaeOnte' Mitchell fumbled at the goal line, but offensive lineman Enese Tonga alertly recovered the ball in the end zone for the game's first score. The extra point missed, leaving GCCC ahead 6–0.

On the ensuing kickoff, the Broncbusters recovered a Highland muff inside the 10-yard line—only to fumble it right back on the next play, setting the tone for a rollercoaster afternoon of lost possessions and missed chances.

Big Plays Lead the Offense

After a string of stalled drives, Tanner Helton found rhythm in the second quarter, capping a balanced drive with a 35-yard touchdown pass to Ahmir Smith to stretch the lead to 13–0. The Broncbuster defense continued to hold firm, highlighted by a 39-yard interception return by Asher Horn and strong front-line play from Karson Butts and Marvin Hall.

The offense found its biggest spark early in the third when Smith broke free for a 46-yard touchdown run, giving Garden City a 20–7 cushion.

Holding Off the Rally

Highland clawed back behind running back TJ Porter, who powered in two touchdowns to close the gap to 20–13. But when it mattered most, the Garden City defense slammed the door. Greg Johnson led the charge with multiple key tackles, and Karson Butts helped stuff Highland's late red-zone push.

Despite the turnover troubles, Garden City's defense forced multiple fourth-down stops and held the Scotties scoreless in the final quarter to seal the win.

Next Up

The Broncbusters return home to Garden City for their regular-season finale on Saturday, Nov. 15, hosting Iowa Central Community College at 11:00 a.m. on the newly named Bob Larson Field.