UPDATE: The highly anticipated 2025 Southland high school football season begins this weekend with Week 0 games, promising thrilling matchups and storylines that fans can’t afford to miss. As teams gear up, the spotlight is on whether any squad can break the powerful hold of Mater Dei and St. John Bosco, who have dominated the Southern Section Division 1 finals since 2016.
Every season, the Monarchs and Braves have clashed for the title, except for 2021, when Servite stunned the Braves in the semifinals. With matchups set for October 31, when these titans face off again, the question remains: can anyone dethrone them? Experts agree that it will take more than just skill; luck will play a pivotal role.
Meanwhile, the City Section faces upheaval following the collapse of Narbonne due to rules violations. With the Patriots’ 48-game winning streak now at 49 after a forfeit victory, the race for the City Section Open Division title is wide open. Look for Carson, San Pedro, and Palisades to emerge as formidable contenders this season.
Defensive lines are shaping up to be the strongest position group, with elite talents like Tomuhini Topui from Mater Dei and Khary Wilder from Gardena Serra ready to wreak havoc. Quarterbacks should brace for impact, as this season promises an onslaught of sacks and forced fumbles.
Surprise success stories are already bubbling up. Compton is revamping after a disappointing 3-7 season, while Fremont, under new leadership from former L.A. Jordan coach Derek Benton, aims for an upswing. Sherman Oaks Notre Dame is also in the spotlight, welcoming impactful transfers to compete fiercely in the Mission League.
As teams scramble to replace key players, several challenges loom large. Newbury Park needs a new No. 1 receiver for quarterback Brady Smigiel, while Mater Dei searches for running backs to fill the void left by Jordon Davison, now at Oregon. Other teams like Sierra Canyon and Mission Viejo are also under pressure to find replacements for their star players.
Coaching changes are making headlines, too. Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer takes the helm at Santa Margarita, while Narbonne‘s first-year coach Doug Bledsoe faces a daunting task without a postseason. Former NFL star Troy Hill is stepping into his first coaching role at St. Bonaventure, while Rick Clausen tries to turn around Westlake after an 0-10 season.
Freshman impact players are set to shake things up, with quarterbacks like Thaddeus Breaux from Hamilton and Ezrah Brown from Orange Lutheran ready to prove their mettle. Teams are gearing up for exciting games, including Mission Viejo vs. Santa Margarita this Friday and a highly anticipated clash between Mater Dei and St. John Bosco on Halloween.
New stadiums this season add to the excitement. Garfield, Roosevelt, and Hamilton showcase new facilities in the City Section, while schools like Long Beach Jordan and El Rancho are also unveiling their upgraded venues.
As kickoff approaches, fans are urged to tune in and support their teams. With so much on the line, the 2025 Southland high school football season promises to captivate audiences and deliver unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for updates, scores, and highlights as the action unfolds!
