Kadena's Austin Lutz returns an interception for a touchdown against Kubasaki. (Heather Mendoza/Special to Stripes)

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa – Jeremiah Drummer ensured Kadena wouldn’t suffer the same fate the Panthers did in their season opener against Kubasaki.

The senior running back rushed for four touchdowns and Austin Lutz returned an interception for a score as the Panthers seized the lead in the race for DODEA-Pacific Far East Division I title space, routing the Dragons 32-7, a month after losing their home opener to Kubasaki 34-20.

“The offensive line played well, they fired off the ball and played aggressively,” Panthers coach Sergio Mendoza said.

Kadena also took better care of the football, Mendoza said. In the opener, the Panthers gave up two fumbles and two interceptions; three of those miscues led to Dragons scores.

“The boys are becoming a brotherhood, holding each other accountable,” Mendoza said. “The boys kept their word about what they’ve committed to, and it showed tonight.”

Drummer rushed 20 times for 150 yards, including TD runs of 15, 10, 12 and 20 yards. Lutz’s interception touchdown return was from 40 yards.

Kubasaki got its lone touchdown on a 7-yard run by A.J. Sablan early in the second quarter.

“Kadena came out really strong and executed well, especially the run game,” Dragons coach Tony Alvarado said. “Their coaches had them well prepared. They did their homework. They stayed true to their game plan and did a great job. Hats off to them.”

The Panthers are the only team left in D-I with one loss and control their own destiny.

Kadena can clinch host rights to the D-I title game scheduled for Oct. 28 if the Panthers win out, or if it beats Nile C. Kinnick at home next Friday and Kubasaki loses next Friday at Humphreys. Both those kickoffs are at 6 p.m.

Kadena's Jeremiah Drummer rushed for 150 yards and four touchdowns against Kubasaki. (Heather Mendoza/Special to Stripes)