Another Year, Same Turkey Tussle Story: Muir Throttles Pasadena, 49-13

John Muir High School players clamber atop the Victory Bell following their 49-13 victory over Pasadena in Friday’s “Turkey Tussle” homecoming game. [Eddie Rivera / Pasadena Now]

Following last year’s 45-0 stomping of their Pacific League rivals, league champs John Muir High School once again ran roughshod over the Pasadena Bulldogs in the 77th annual “Turkey Tussle” homecoming game Friday night at the Rose Bowl—seemingly scoring at will in the second half, and eventually winning, 49-13.

Muir scored twice in the first half, on a 5-yard run by Alijah Parker, and a one-yard run by Zion McDonald. A PAT failed, but wasn’t a factor in the outcome.

Pasadena then scored on a 25-yard pass and run from sophomore QB Dutch Burbidge to receiver Christopher Solis. But Muir scored again to lead 25-7, as the first half ended. A two-point attempt with just seconds left in the half failed.

The second half was all Muir as the Mustangs scored with the run and the pass and the miscue, including an interception return for a score, all but obliterating Pasadena’s chances.

Pasadena dealt itself its own fate with numerous penalties and missteps in the third and fourth quarters, including a safety when a punter stepped on the end line.

Muir exploded for three more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, putting the game far out of reach.

“This is just a blessing,” Muir Coach Lance Mitchell said of the victory.

“To be a part of the development of these young men, and being able to represent the community and represent the school, in front of our families,” he said, “is special. For me, being able to be a part of this on both sides, is a highlight for me.”

Pasadena Coach Ron Jones said, “I thought early on we had a chance, I knew it was going to be a battle, with the kind of team that they have, and our guys being young. It’s no excuse. I thought we fought hard early, and then the air went out of us.”

A former Muir player, Jones was on the opposite side from his alma mater and said, “I’m a competitor, so I just want to compete. The rivalry is good for the kids, but for me, I just want to win.”

Following the game, the Rose Bowl Institute awarded its Certificate of Merit in Sportsmanship award to Pasadena’s Christopher Solis and Muir’s Keyon Mills.