The Daily News previews the area’s top high school football games Friday, Sept. 19, 2025.
GAME OF THE WEEK
Saugus (4-0) vs. Hart (2-2), at College of the Canyons
Saugus was 2-8 last year, and is now 4-0 heading into this Foothill League opener. Saugus coach Jason Bornn means business with this year’s senior-heavy edition of the Centurions, including QB Jake Nuttall, RB Ty Hall, and LB Kory Bystrom. Junior wideout Landon Lattimore is turning in an All-Area watch performance this season with eight touchdowns in four games.
Hart is led by Mr. Do It All Jacob Paisano, who has thrown for 808 yards and 11 touchdowns this fall, along with three rushing touchdowns. His co-star is athlete Matix Frithsmith, who has tallied 31 receptions for 398 yards and three TDs.
Saugus’ focus and well-rounded game might be too much for Hart and Paisano.
Tarek’s pick: Saugus
Oaks Christian (1-3) at Serra (2-2)
Oaks Christian is staring down the barrel of the worst season in program history if it can’t turn things around. Traveling to Serra, which is on a two-game losing streak, is going to be a tall task. On top of that, the Lions lost their starting QB Trey Towns to transfer. He checked into Rancho Cucamonga last week.
Since 2004, Oaks Christian’s lowest win total for a season is five (twice). Losing is one thing in a tough schedule, having a mediocre season is another. But the way the Lions are losing is unprecedented. 63-0 to Sierra Canyon. 44-14 to Santa Margarita.
Tarek’s pick: Serra
Crespi (4-0) at Oak Park (1-3)
The Celts could start 5-0 for the first time since 2014 with a win Friday. Sophomore QB Chase Curren has 798 yards passing in four games with 13 TDs. Senior lineman James Moffat leads the Celts in tackles (22) and tackles for loss (11.5).
Crespi’s run defense will be challenged. Oak Park is led by a two-running back tandem in Nevada Ford and Grayson Auzat.
Tarek’s pick: Crespi
Palisades (3-0) at El Camino Real (2-2)
A battle of charter schools in the LA City Section. The Dolphins are led by a high-end air attack directed by QB Jack Thomas and Oklahoma commit Demare Dezeurn, who has five TD catches in 18 receptions.
Coach Rick Hayashida is back at the helm at ECR. He has a standout freshman running back in Raul Berdon, who is leading the team in rushing (245 yards, 3 TDs). Sophomore linebacker Luke Ulibarri already has 42 tackles this season.
Despite what is a good, young core for Hayashida. His team hasn’t seen speed like Palisades’ yet. The Dolphins will be an Open Division team.
Tarek’s pick: Palisades