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PCC quarterback Eldrin Jones and cornerback Derek Mack have been selected Players of the Week in the National Northern Conference by the Southern California Football Association, after the Lancers’ 31-28 victory over Bakersfield on Saturday.Jones threw for 199 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions, on 18-of-24 passing, in being selected Offensive Player of the Week.

Jones also had a rushing touchdown, along with 80 yards rushing on 14 carries.

Jones also leads the Conference in kick return yards and average, along with his quarterbacking responsibilities.

“[Jones], a lot of the time, makes the plays by himself,” said Acting Head Coach James Kuk, who has improved to 3-0 after taking over the team on Sept. 19. “He has natural talent and ability.”

Mack had a field goal and a blocked extra point, four tackles and two pass breakups in being named Special Teams Player of the Week.

Mack also leads the Northern Conference with three interceptions.

“The game is important to [Mack] and he shows that on the field,” Kuk said.

In what ended up being a three-point game, Mack’s special teams presence may have made the difference between a win and a loss.

“A big part of [the win] was special teams,” Kuk said. “We had blocked kicks, made field goals and PATs.”

Both Jones and Mack hail from Miami Northwestern Senior High School.

On the defensive side, Kuk highlighted linebackers Roman Pula and Jeremy Aguilar as being the anchors of the defense.

Against Bakersfield, Pula had nine tackles and an interception and began the game with a huge hit on a Bakersfield kick returner.

“Pula sent a message on the opening kickoff,” Kuk said.

Aguilar had 12 tackles and a sack against Bakersfield and leads the conference in tackles with 41, Pula is second with 38.

Even with the solid linebacking presence, PCC ranks last in the conference in scoring defense allowing over 28 points per game.

PCC (3-2) travels to Ventura College on Saturday, for their second conference game and first extended road trip.

Although Kuk acknowledges that the travel will be a factor, he says his team is focused on the game.

Ventura has dropped to 3-2 after two close losses to Cerritos College and Glendale College, but started 3-0 with three blowout wins over L.A. Valley College, Antelope Valley College and Santa Barbara College.

“They are a well coached, sound team,” Kuk said. “They have a nice offensive scheme, with an athletic quarterback.”

Ventura’s quarterback, Lee Mondol, leads the conference in nearly every passing category most notably passing yards and touchdowns.

Kuk said that Ventura will be a test, but stressed that his team will be ready.

“We need to bring it every single week and continue to improve,” Kuk said.

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