High school football fans in California are looking forward to the non-conference matchup as the Santa Margarita Eagles from Rancho Santa Margarita visit the Highland Bulldogs of Palmdale on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
Game Preview: Southland Contenders Meet
Santa Margarita comes into this game with a 1-1 record, showcasing a balanced offense and tenacious defense. They have had strong performances against top teams like Mission Viejo and Centennial, leveraging playmakers such as Jaion Smith in the rushing game and Trace Johnson at quarterback.
Highland enters at 0-2, striving to find their footing after tough early losses. The Bulldogs are known for a strong passing game and have been working on tightening their defense. The game will be crucial for Highland to gain confidence and build momentum.
Where to Watch: Live Coverage
Fans can catch the game live on the NFHS Network or attend Highland High School in Palmdale for an exciting night of high school football.
Team Rankings & Records
| Team | Overall | Home | Away | Win % | PF | PA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Margarita | 1-1 | 1-1 | 0-0 | .500 | 36 | 34 |
| Highland | 0-2 | 0-1 | 0-1 | .000 | 12 | 51 |
Scoring Averages Per Quarter
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Margarita | 6.5 | 5.0 | 3.5 | 0 | 15 |
| Highland | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6.0 | 6 |
Key Players to Watch
Santa Margarita:
- Jaion Smith leads the rushing attack with 69 yards per game.
- Trace Johnson commands the passing game, throwing for 207 yards per game.
- Luke Gazzaniga is a key receiving threat.
Highland:
- Passing game is a strength with Trace Johnson.
- Defenders like Jordan Green contribute crucial tackles per game.
Game Analysis & Prediction
Santa Margarita’s balanced attack and experience give them the edge, but Highland’s passing offense and home field will keep the contest competitive. Execution and minimizing mistakes will be critical in this early-season battle.
Predicted Score: Santa Margarita 24 – Highland 16
Final Word
The Santa Margarita vs Highland game on September 5, 2025, promises a competitive matchup as both teams aim to sharpen their play early in the season. Fans can expect an entertaining game featuring rising talents from California’s Southland area.
