High school football in California is heating up as the Arleta Mustangs (1-1) prepare to face the Taft Toreadors (2-0) in a non-conference matchup on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. Taft will host the game in Woodland Hills, and fans can secure their tickets digitally through GoFan.
Arleta vs Taft Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Arleta vs Taft
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
This matchup between Arleta and Taft is already generating buzz, as both teams aim to build momentum early in the season. With contrasting records and styles of play, the contest is set to deliver an exciting battle under the Friday night lights.
Team Records and Rankings
Arleta Mustangs (1-1)
- National Rank: 10,819
- California Rank: 737
- Section Rank: 24
- Overall Record: 1-1
- Points For: 51
- Points Against: 82
The Mustangs enter with a .500 record after splitting their first two games. They’ve shown flashes of offensive potential but struggled defensively, allowing 82 points across their first two outings. Their road record sits at 1-1, while they’ve yet to play a home game this season.
Taft Toreadors (2-0)
- National Rank: 11,392
- California Rank: 784
- Section Rank: 26
- Overall Record: 2-0
- Points For: 62
- Points Against: 17
Taft has stormed into the season undefeated, securing both victories at home. Their defense has been particularly impressive, giving up just 17 points in two games. With a 100% win percentage and growing confidence, the Toreadors look to continue their perfect start.
Offensive Comparison
When breaking down the numbers, the differences between Arleta and Taft’s offensive strengths are clear.
Arleta’s Offense:
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 184.5
- Passing Yards Per Game: 116.5
- Total Yards Per Game: 301.0
- Points Per Game: 25.5
Arleta leans heavily on its ground game. Quarterback Austin Ramos (#4) has also shown dual-threat ability, averaging 116.5 passing yards and contributing 183 total yards per game. Running back Jose Rosas (#0) is a consistent performer, averaging 82 rushing yards per game. Wideout Robert Howze (#5) has been the top receiving option with 51 yards per contest.
Taft’s Offense:
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 42.0
- Passing Yards Per Game: 275.0
- Total Yards Per Game: 317.0
- Points Per Game: 31.0
The Toreadors rely on their aerial attack to fuel their offense. Quarterback Nathan Swinson (#1) has been outstanding, averaging 247 passing yards per game and 262.5 total yards. His primary target, Wesley Parvizi (#5), has hauled in 96.5 receiving yards per game. Running back Brian Casas (#13) contributes on the ground but averages just 17.5 rushing yards per contest, showing that Taft’s strength is clearly through the air.
Defensive Comparison
While Arleta has yet to solidify its defense, giving up 82 points in two games, Taft has displayed more balance. The Toreadors average 45 tackles per game and nearly three sacks per game, led by Levi Parvizi (#6) with 6.5 tackles per contest and Adam Ohayon (#14) contributing 0.5 sacks per game.
For Arleta, defensive stats are less documented, but the Mustangs must tighten their coverage to handle Taft’s passing attack.
Scoring Trends
Arleta’s scoring distribution reveals some inconsistency. They average 11 points in the first quarter but taper off significantly in the third, averaging zero points in that frame. Their strongest push comes in the opening half, but finishing games has been a challenge.
On the other hand, Taft averages 31 points per game, though their quarter-by-quarter scoring breakdown is not fully available. Still, their offensive efficiency and defensive stability give them a strong advantage heading into this matchup.
Common Opponents
Looking at common matchups, both teams have crossed paths with Monroe and Cleveland this season:
- Arleta vs Cleveland (Aug. 28, 2025): Lost 70-37
- Taft vs Monroe (Aug. 28, 2025): Won 42-0
This contrast shows Taft’s defensive strength and Arleta’s challenges against high-powered opponents. Later in the season, both teams will face Verdugo Hills, providing more opportunities for comparison.
Key Players to Watch
Arleta Mustangs:
- #4 QB Austin Ramos – Leader on offense, contributing through both passing and rushing.
- #0 RB Jose Rosas – Primary rushing threat, averaging 82 yards per game.
- #5 WR Robert Howze – Top receiving target with 51 yards per game.
Taft Toreadors:
- #1 QB Nathan Swinson – The star of the team, averaging 247 passing yards per game.
- #5 WR Wesley Parvizi – Explosive playmaker with nearly 100 receiving yards per game.
- #6 LB Levi Parvizi – Defensive anchor with 6.5 tackles per game.
Game Outlook
This non-conference matchup brings two very different teams together. Arleta’s ground-heavy offense will attempt to control possession and limit Taft’s explosive passing game. If the Mustangs can slow down quarterback Nathan Swinson, they have a chance to keep it close.
For Taft, maintaining their offensive rhythm through the air and pressuring Ramos defensively will be the keys to victory. Their undefeated record and balanced play suggest they’ll enter as favorites.
Ticket Information
Fans can purchase digital tickets for Arleta vs Taft through GoFan. With both programs eager to prove themselves, expect a strong turnout for this highly anticipated clash.
Final Word
The Arleta vs Taft matchup on September 5, 2025, is more than just another early-season game. It’s a test of styles: Arleta’s ground control against Taft’s aerial firepower. The Toreadors have momentum on their side, but the Mustangs are motivated to hand Taft its first loss of the season.
California high school football fans should mark this one on their calendars—it has all the ingredients of a Friday night thriller.
For more updates and coverage on California High School Football, visit HS Football Insider.
