In a classic game between the Franklin Cougars and their superior offense against Canutillo and their stingy defense, Franklin prevailed with a solid fourth quarter performance.

The Cougars won the game 24-13 due to clutch performances by Nevada commit quarterback Baylor Romney, running back Nickolas Bingham, and wide receiver Aaron Smith.  The defensive battle lasted for three quarters where Canutillo took a 6-3 lead into the fourth quarter.  After Canutillo QB Javier Gomez scrambled for an 18 yard touchdown at the 7:47 mark of the fourth quarter it looked as though the Eagles were going to hold on to win the game with a 13-10 lead.

The Eagles failed to capitalize on an interception by FS Bo Brooks and missed a crucial field goal with 2:59 left in the contest.  The final 2 minutes and change belonged to the Cougars though as Franklin QB Baylor Romney found Aaron Smith for a 16 touchdown with 1:09 left in the game.  The Cougars sealed the deal when linebacker Michael Faimalo returned a 20 yard fumble recovery for a defensive touchdown.

Canutillo begins the 2014 campaign 0-1 and will pay Eastwood a visit next week, while Franklin (1-0) will host Las Cruces Mayfield in our Apex by Sunglass Hut game of the week at Quarles Thunderbird Stadium.  Las Cruces Mayfield lost to Las Cruces High for the New Mexico state championship last season.

More From 600 ESPN El Paso