The Thonon Black Panthers delivered a stunning performance this past weekend in the French D1 Elite league by overwhelming the visiting Villepiinte Diables Rouges pummeling them 56-18.
Early shock from Diables Rouges
The Parisian underdogs stunned the reigning champions in the opening moments, with quarterback Michaud exploiting a defensive lapse to score an unconverted touchdown (0-6). This marked the first time in three weeks that Thonon had trailed at home, briefly silencing their supporters. The Diables Rouges’ aggressive start highlighted their determination to avenge a prior defeat, but it ultimately proved a fleeting challenge.
Black Panthers’ offensive onslaught
Thonon’s response was characteristically ruthless. Running back Adel Bafdile ignited the comeback with a 45-yard rushing touchdown, weaving through the Diables Rouges’ secondary with trademark agility. Dual-threat quarterback José Tabora then took center stage, powering through for a goal-line score before unleashing his aerial arsenal. A 22-yard bullet to Odell Turnbull and a precision 15-yard fade to Benjamin Lolmède stretched the lead to 28-6 by halftime, exposing Villepinte’s struggling secondary.
Defensive stranglehold seals fate
The second half saw Thonon’s defense elevate to championship caliber. Linebackers consistently blew up screen plays, holding the Diables Rouges to -2 yards across their first three third-quarter drives. Meanwhile, Tabora and Turnbull connected twice more – including a 38-yard back-shoulder masterpiece – to extend the lead to 42-6. Though Villepinte’s reserves scored two late touchdowns against Thonon’s second-string defense, Adrian Laporte’s 4-yard plunge had already cemented the final score at 56-18.
Key Takeaways and Championship Implications
Thonon’s Strengths Reinforced:
- Tabora’s evolution as a complete QB (4 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD)
- Turnbull’s red-zone dominance (3 TDs)
- Defensive front seven’s 78% run-stopping efficiency
Diables Rouges’ Reality Check:
- Secondary allowed 9.1 yards per pass attempt
- Run game stifled (2.3 yards per carry)
- Bright spot: Michaud’s 82% first-half completion rate
This 56-18 victory extends Thonon’s D1 supremacy while exposing the gulf between promoted teams and established contenders. For the Diables Rouges, the game serves as both a humbling lesson and a roadmap for tactical adjustments ahead of their relegation battle.
Photos: @blackpanthersthonon