In Santa Ana, excitement fills the air as the highly anticipated matchup between No. 1 Mater Dei and No. 2 Bishop Gorman is set to kick off this Friday night. The game is not just another high school football game; it will be broadcast nationally on Bally Sports, with fans eagerly tuning in to watch some of the best talent in the country.
Bishop Gorman, coming from Las Vegas, enters the game with a strong reputation, having earned their place at the top of the SBLive/Sports Illustrated Power 25 national rankings. This showdown could significantly impact the race for the 2024 mythical national championship.
As we head into Week 2 of the season, questions arise following last week’s performances. The previous matchup between these two teams occurred during the shortened spring season of 2021, after the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruption in 2020. Back then, Mater Dei showcased their dominance, and many are curious if they can repeat that success.
St. John Bosco also earned attention after defeating Sierra Canyon 42-21 in a game that showcased their potential. This year’s St. John Bosco team is young but filled with promise. They have some returning talent, but many new faces that fans are still getting to know.
Also noteworthy this week is the impressive play from high school quarterbacks. Newbury Park’s Brady Smigiel has thrown six touchdowns and racked up 482 yards in just two games. Meanwhile, Pacifica’s Dominic Duran has posted ten touchdowns and 730 yards. Both quarterbacks are performing exceptionally and remain interception-free.
A curious situation has emerged regarding quarterback Madden Iamaleava. The UCLA commit is no longer on Warren High’s roster, and speculation swirls that he, along with wide receiver Jace Brown, could be transferring to Long Beach Poly. This situation adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding season.
With the weekend approaching, fans can mark their calendars for an electrifying night of high school football action.
