California High School Football Games of the Week: Aug. 21-23

The California high school football season is upon us, promising another year of thrilling contests and unforgettable moments under the Friday night lights. From Southern California powerhouses to Northern California contenders, teams across the state have spent months preparing for this moment. Week 1 offers a compelling lineup of games, showcasing top-10 showdowns and exciting interstate matchups. Here’s a look at five of the most highly-anticipated games as the road to the championship begins.

No. 3 Centennial vs. No. 11 Servite

When: Friday, August 22, 10 p.m. ET
Where: Husky Stadium, Corona, Calif.

Servite’s 2024 California high school football season had two faces. After winning their first six games, they lost the last five against the state’s elite teams. The Friars could start their upcoming campaign on a high note by defeating Centennial. That’s easier said than done, though, because California’s third-best team has a formidable roster. Enjoying home-field advantage, the Huskies should pull off an easy victory.

Massey Prediction: Centennial 40, Servite 14

No. 7 JSerra Catholic at No. 8 Sierra Canyon

When: Friday, August 22, 10 p.m. ET
Where: Sierra Canyon Football Stadium, Chatsworth, Calif.

The Trailblazers finished the 2024 California high school football season strong, winning five of their last six games. They start another season by welcoming the Lions, a team with a reverse story after losing five of their last six games. While this showdown is shaping up to be a nailbiter, Sierra Canyon should have the edge over JSerra Catholic.

Massey Prediction: Sierra Canyon 27, JSerra Catholic 25

No. 5 Mission Viejo at No. 6 Santa Margarita Catholic

When: Friday, August 22, 10 p.m. ET
Where: Trabuco Hills High School, Mission Viejo, Calif.

While the Eagles are considered the home team, they will be playing at Mission Viejo, the Diablos’ home city. Mission Viejo finished with a 10-1 record last season, while Santa Margarita Catholic limped to a 5-7 mark. If the Diablos had an easy victory over the Eagles last year, it won’t be the case against the Carson Palmer-coached squad in 2025. However, the visitors should find a way to sneak past the “home” team.

Massey Prediction: Mission Viejo 28, Santa Margarita Catholic 26

No. 1 Mater Dei at St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.)

When: Saturday, Aug. 23 at 3:30 p.m. ET
Where: Brian Piccolo Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

It’s always worth watching the nation’s best high school football team because it’s a preview of the next generation of talent in college and the pros. The Monarchs are poised to defend the CIF Open Division state championship, thanks to their stacked roster on both sides of the ball. However, before they compete against California high school football squads, they will visit Florida’s seventh-best team, St. Thomas Aquinas. Despite going on the road, Mater Dei is projected to dominate its season opener.

Massey Prediction: Mater Dei 42, St. Thomas Aquinas 7

No. 4 Orange Lutheran at Northwestern (Fla.)

When: Saturday, August 23, 7 p.m. ET
Where: Nathaniel Traz Powell Stadium, Miami, Fla.

The Lancers reached last season’s California high school football Division I state semifinals but lost to St. John Bosco. Orange Lutheran opens another campaign on the road, facing the reigning Florida high school football Class 3A state champions. While Teddy Bridgewater isn’t coaching the Bulls anymore, Northwestern remains a top contender.

Massey Prediction: Orange Lutheran 28, Northwestern 22

How to Follow California High School Football

For California high school football fans, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the gridiron excitement in the Golden State.