Turley’s passing lifts Centennial past Longhorns

Through the first eight games, Centennial quarterback Austin Turley had thrown just 10 touchdown passes.

Thursday night in a key Southwest League contest at Legacy, Turley turned in arguably his best passing performance of the season.

Turley threw three TD passes — all to Brandt Honda — including the game-winner with 6:26 remaining, as the No. 5 Bulldogs escaped with a 21-14 victory.

With the game tied at 14-14, Centennial took advantage of a wind-blown 14-yard punt from Legacy’s Kashawn Richardson, setting them up in prime field position.

Six plays later, Turley hit Honda, who made a beautiful catch between two Legacy defenders for the 7-yard score. The TD pass gave Centennial (7-2, 4-1 Southwest League) the lead for good.

“They (Legacy) forced our hand, meaning we had to throw the ball to make big plays,” Centennial coach Leon Evans said. “I really don’t think the better team won tonight, because Legacy played very well against us. We made the plays when needed, and this is a huge win.”

Legacy, which turned in shutouts in its last two outings, scored first on Charles Julian’s 1-yard run at the 5:34 mark of the second quarter.

However, Turley connected with Honda on TDs of 24 and 35 yards in a 72-second span late in the half to give Centennial a seven-point advantage.

“The touchdown right before halftime was a big swing,” Evans said. “We got the ball back so quick after the first touchdown, so we decided to go with the same play. Again, Legacy played us tough. Hats off to them.”

The Longhorns (5-4, 3-2) tied the game late in the third quarter by marching 76 yards in 12 plays.

Devin Williams sneaked into the end zone from 1-yard out, tying the game at 14.

Julian led Legacy with 167 yards on 31 carries. Joe Murray caught all three of the Longhorn passes for 54 yards.

Coby Newton had 85 yards on 23 carries for Centennial, and Turley completed 9 of 17 passes for 101 yards.