SAN DIEGO – San Diego showcased its depth at running back and a strong defensive unit during Saturday's fall scrimmage at Torero Stadium.
 
Torero fans got their first look at a talented group of running backs this season as the group compiled 228 yards on 37 carries throughout the scrimmage.
 
While the running back group thrived, it was the final rushing touchdown of the day that was the most impactful. David Vellon, a nine-year-old from Poway, California, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy scored the final touchdown of the day.
 
Through TeamIMPACT – a national nonprofit that matches children facing life-threatening and chronic illnesses with college sports teams to foster confidence, optimism and a sense of belonging – Vellon was paired with the Toreros for the 2018 season.
 
On the final play of the scrimmage, Vellon rushed for a 50-yard touchdown with his Toreros teammates surrounding him and celebrating in the end zone. He signed a letter of intent to join the Toreros during a post-practice press conference.
 
Emilio Martinez burst onto the scene last year as a freshman and played well with the first offensive unit, carrying the ball nine times for 37 yards.
 
Terrance Smith, a transfer from Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz, California, made his presence immediately known, rushing for 68 yards on four carries. He provided the highlight of the afternoon with an electric 54-yard touchdown run early in the scrimmage.
 
 While the running backs showcased their ability to pick up yards, the Toreros defense played well overall and prevented the offense from finding its rhythm early.
 
Isaac Haney led the Toreros with five tackles, while Mato Pacheco contributed four tackles and two pass break-ups. Joshua Hong chipped in four tackles and a pass break-up.
 
David Tolbert and Victor Lopez each registered an interception in the red zone. Tolbert returned his pick for 15 yards, while Victor ran his back for 24 yards.
 
Jacob Bergstrom and Jake Wittwer provided pressure in the backfield, picking up a sack apiece. Zeke Downs also found himself in the backfield late in the scrimmage and set the offense back four yards with a tackle for loss.
 
STATS FCS Walter Payton Watch List member, Anthony Lawrence, led the passing attack for the Toreros. He was 8-of-12 for 60 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
 
Overall, five Toreros quarterbacks took snaps and the group finished 21-of-31 for 154 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions.
 
The Toreros open the season Sept. 1 at 2 p.m. PT when they play host to Western New Mexico.