Pioneers overwhelm Renegades 79-6 in opener

Ronald Zollicoffer on the run.

Ronald Zollicoffer scored three touchdowns, the Pioneers defense returned two interceptions for touchdowns and St. Paul scored 72 unanswered points to defeat the Granite City Renegades 79-6.

It didn't take long for the Pioneers to repeat their most lethal connection through the air, as quarterback Cleve McCoy hit Delane Woods with a TD pass on the Pioneers' first drive after the Pioneers defense forced a three and out.

As the scoring orgy continued, McCoy hit Justin Miles with a 50-yard TD strike, Lamarre and linebacker Corey Lane Brenner had pick sixes, Riza Mahmoud and Vernon Johnson notched rushing touchdowns and backup QB Bryen Trulen hit Mike Dozier with a late td pass.

The Pioneers finished the game with no punts and no turnovers.

A great way to kick off the season. But the task gets much tougher this week, as the Pioneers will host the Des Moines Blaze at SeaFoam Stadium. The Blaze have beaten the Pioneers two straight seasons and have won 48 straight games.

Please join us at 7 p.m. for what is sure to be an epic contest.


Players of the game:

Offense - Ronald Zollicoffer.

Defense - Lionel Lamarre (2 ints).


Special Teams - Bobby Wright and Eric Ellestad (field goal and 10 extra points).

Bobby Wright with award.

Lionel Lamarre after a pick six.