Ethan Sam Runs Granger Past Cyprus, Lancers Keep Rolling

This article recaps a segment from The Rush's Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026 episode. Watch the full show.

Granger is playing some of its best football of the season, and running back Ethan Sam is leading the way. The Lancers beat Cyprus 36-17 to move to 3-1 in 5A Region 4 play, and Sam ran for 162 yards and three touchdowns.

His favorite run was an 18-yard touchdown. "I came outside, saw someone over-leveraging me, and I just stiff-armed him off," Sam said. "I think I broke like five or six tackles on that play, but I just ran hard and got in the end zone."

Sam says he takes the most pride in gaining positive yards on every carry and keeping drives alive. Granger is a run-first team, and he credited his offensive line and receivers for their blocking.

The Lancers also got quarterback Ed Amuia back after he missed about five weeks. In his first game back, Amuia finished with nearly 400 yards combined rushing and passing. On defense, Sam praised defensive lineman Lamont Silva, who had a couple of sacks against Cyprus.

Sam also enjoys playing for head coach Alema Te'o. "He has a good program, a lot of good ties to colleges, and a lot of knowledge of this sport," Sam said. "He always says it's the greatest sport in America."

After a tough start, Granger has won three straight. "Our confidence is at an all-time high," Sam said. Next up is a trip to Hunter. Noland Parry's Power Guide calls it nearly a pick'em, with Granger favored by 0.7.