The PCM Mustangs concluded their season with a heart-wrenching 21-17 loss to the Wilton Beavers in the Class 2A quarterfinals on October 27, 2023. After a strong start, where the Mustangs held a 17-0 lead at halftime, the Beavers mounted a significant comeback, scoring three touchdowns in the second half to secure their place in the semifinals.
The Mustangs, ranked No. 2, struck first with a touchdown run from Lewis Daye Jr. in the opening quarter, followed by a career-best 41-yard field goal from Dominic Witt, establishing a 10-0 lead. A short touchdown run by Chase Wagaman in the second quarter extended the advantage to 17-0, leaving the Beavers facing a daunting challenge.
Wilton, however, responded after halftime. The Beavers scored quickly, narrowing the gap to 17-8 by the end of the third quarter. With just under eight minutes left in the game, they pulled within three points with another touchdown, followed by the decisive score with only 1 minute and 36 seconds remaining on the clock.
Wagaman had a solid performance, completing 15 of 22 passes for 160 yards, alongside rushing for 51 yards and a touchdown. Daye Jr. led the Mustangs in rushing with 92 yards on 25 carries. The team collectively ran for 181 yards, averaging 3.7 yards per carry. In the receiving department, Gavin Steenhoek topped the charts with 85 yards from five receptions, while Jaden Houser made a career-high six catches for 38 yards.
Defensively, the Mustangs were led by Jax Strait, who recorded 10 tackles. Trent Nickelson contributed a personal best of 9.5 tackles, including two for loss. Other key defensive players included Mason Hjortshoj and Harrison Brinegar, each contributing significantly to the effort. Notably, Wagaman also had two interceptions, leading the 2A class with eight picks this season.
The Beavers’ offense was spearheaded by Gunner Edwards, who passed for 192 yards and two touchdowns, despite throwing three interceptions. Running back Noah Gray added 80 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Hayden Hill contributed 68 yards on the ground. Bryer Putman was a standout receiver with five catches for 121 yards and two touchdowns.
With their victory, Wilton extended their winning streak to seven games and secured a place in the semifinals for the second consecutive year. The Beavers previously reached the 1A semifinals last season, showcasing their continued growth and competitiveness within Iowa high school football.
This quarterfinal matchup highlighted the resilience of both teams, with PCM’s impressive first-half performance ultimately overshadowed by Wilton’s determined second-half comeback. As the Mustangs close the chapter on their season with a record of 9-2, they can take pride in their achievements and look forward to future seasons.
