LAS VEGAS — The Bulls sharpened their dominance in the league, extending their unbeaten streak to a perfect 13-0 regular season with a 23-3 victory over division rival Big Horns at home on Sunday. Head Coach Jason Burton’s squad showcased a balanced offensive attack and a stingy defense, underscoring their position as the top team in the division with a flawless 6-0 division record.
From the opening kickoff, the Bulls controlled the tone of the game. After winning the toss and electing to receive, the offense gradually found its rhythm despite being held to one red zone visit without a touchdown. The breakthrough came late in the first quarter when quarterback Garry Griggs connected with running back James Sotelo on a remarkable goal-line touchdown catch that put the Bulls on the board with a 7-3 lead.
Sotelo was clearly the offensive highlight, rushing for 118 yards and adding 46 receiving yards, including that crucial touchdown reception. Alongside him, Stephen Young contributed a solid 75 rushing yards and chipped in 11 receiving yards, providing the Bulls with a versatile ground game that Big Horns struggled to contain. Larry Johnson also made a notable contribution, scoring the go-ahead rushing touchdown in the third quarter to push the lead to 16-3, followed by a series of three field goals by Michael Thomas, who was perfect on all three attempts including an impressive 54-yarder in the fourth quarter.
The Bulls’ defense was equally impressive, delivering four sacks and consistently disrupting the Big Horns’ offense, which managed only a lone field goal from Daniel Mangino. Glenn Pusey led the defensive front with two sacks, and while the Bulls did not force turnovers, they kept the Big Horns off the scoreboard and limited their Bears’ offensively to just 114 passing yards and 52 rushing yards.
The beginning of the game saw the Big Horns briefly take a 3-0 lead with Mangino's 35-yard field goal, but the Bulls quickly turned momentum. Key moments such as a missed 51-yard field goal by Mangino and several punts forced by the Bulls' pressure helped maintain control. The Bulls' special teams and defensive units cooperated to limit big plays by the Big Horns, including several fair catches that prevented return yards from shifting field position.
While the Bulls did commit a few turnovers, including fumbles by Sotelo and Young during the second and third quarters, none translated into points for the Big Horns. This resilience reflected the team’s experience and composure under pressure, the byproduct of their season-long momentum and tight roster continuity.
With this win, the Bulls have now locked in the division title, boasting a staggering 403 points scored against only 101 allowed, maintaining the league’s best point differential by far. The team’s discipline was evident with just four penalties for 40 yards, matching the Big Horns' penalties but overshadowing them in nearly every phase.
Jason Burton’s coaching staff deserves credit for a patient yet aggressive game plan that balanced running and passing plays effectively, managing the clock, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities primarily through balanced offensive drives capped by field goals and crucial touchdowns.
Looking ahead, the Bulls appear poised to maintain their dominant form heading deeper into the season and playoffs, carrying the confidence built from yet another comprehensive victory. If this team’s resilience, efficiency, and firepower continue on this trajectory, an undefeated run appears more than achievable.
The Bulls showed today that they are not just favorites on paper but a well-rounded, battle-tested squad capable of controlling all facets of the game. Las Vegas can watch with excitement as Jason Burton’s Bulls continue carving their legacy in this remarkable season.
Bulls Extend Unbeaten Streak to 13 with Commanding 23-3 Win Over Big Horns
Jason Burton's Bulls continue their relentless march, securing a perfect regular season with a well-rounded team performance at home against the Big Horns.
Jared Davis
· Red Rock Herald
· 11/28/1999