The Riverside City College (RCC) Tigers football team is off to an incredible start in the 2024 season, averaging over 600 yards of offense, standing at an impressive 4-1 record. Despite one hard-fought loss against the formidable #8 ranked Golden West College, where they narrowly fell 37-36, this team’s resilience, spirit, and grit are unquestionable. The Tigers are now on a three-game win streak, and their recent performances showcase why they are one of the top teams in California community college football.
At the heart of the Tigers' success is the stellar leadership of their redshirt sophomore quarterback, Brady Jones. His command of the offense has been nothing short of exceptional. In their recent homecoming game on October 5, 2024, against Mt. San Jacinto College, Jones shredded the opposing defense with pinpoint accuracy. His aerial onslaught was key to RCC’s explosive 76-16 victory, a performance that not only demonstrated the depth of the Tigers' talent but also solidified their dominance.
Jones’ ability to connect with his wide receivers and exploit defensive gaps is part of what makes RCC's offense so dynamic. This season, they’ve consistently put up big numbers, scoring 70 points against El Camino College in another recent contest. With such high-octane firepower, the Tigers have outscored opponents by wide margins, proving they can execute against a variety of defenses.
Though the offensive stats are often in the spotlight, RCC’s defense deserves equal praise. They’ve made critical plays when it matters most, forcing turnovers and limiting big plays in key moments. In their lone loss to Golden West, the defense fought valiantly to contain a high-powered offense in what was a back-and-forth battle that came down to the wire. Even in defeat, the defensive unit showed their heart and tenacity, traits that have propelled them forward in their subsequent games.
A perfect example of this was their conference opener against Palomar College, where RCC’s defense stifled the Comets, helping the Tigers to a commanding 45-14 win. Defensive coordination and discipline will continue to be pivotal as they face tougher opponents later in the season.
While the loss to Golden West was heartbreaking, it could end up being a defining moment for the team. No championship run is without adversity, and the Tigers showed immense character in how they’ve responded since that setback. There’s something to be said about a team that doesn’t let one loss derail their momentum, and RCC has done just that by bouncing back with three consecutive wins.
This ability to learn from defeat is crucial as the Tigers push deeper into the season. As the competition stiffens, each game will present new challenges. Their ability to adjust and stay mentally focused, even after tough losses, gives them an edge.
Head Coach Tom Craft has been a masterful leader throughout this campaign, bringing together an exceptionally talented group of players and coaching staff. Craft’s experience has been instrumental in maximizing the potential of the team. His strategic adjustments, particularly in the wake of the Golden West game, demonstrate his leadership in guiding RCC through difficult moments and refocusing them on the ultimate goal—another state championship run.
It’s not just the quarterback or star players that make this team special, but the collective effort of every position group. From the offensive line creating space for the run game to the special teams making crucial plays, every player on the Tigers’ roster has bought into the mission. When teams unite around a common purpose like this, they become difficult to stop.
With a 4-1 record and a three-game win streak, RCC Tigers are primed to continue their march toward another deep playoff run. Their remaining schedule will test them, but the foundation laid through the early part of the season indicates this team has what it takes to overcome any obstacles.
The offense, led by Brady Jones, continues to put up staggering numbers, while the defense rises to the occasion time and again. RCC’s only loss to Golden West, while a tough pill to swallow, serves as motivation to push harder. As they set their sights on the future, one thing is clear: the Tigers are a team to be reckoned with, and their journey is far from over.
To all the fans and supporters of RCC football, now is the time to rally behind this team. The Tigers have shown that they are more than capable of overcoming adversity, and they need the continued support of their community. Whether it's at Wheelock Stadium or on the road, the roar of the Tiger faithful will help carry this team through the toughest of battles. Stay loud, stay proud, and let’s keep pushing this team toward victory!
