High school football fans across California are gearing up for an exciting non-conference showdown as the Bakersfield Drillers visit the Garfield Bulldogs on Thursday, August 28, at 7:00 p.m. at Garfield High School in Los Angeles. This early-season matchup promises to showcase emerging talent and set the tone for both programs as they navigate the 2025 campaign.
Bakersfield vs Garfield Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Bakersfield vs Garfield
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
For more updates on California high school football, visit California High School Football Events.
Matchup Overview
The Garfield Bulldogs open their season at home after a promising offseason and preparation. They face a tough test in the Bakersfield Drillers, who arrive with a perfect 1-0 record, riding the momentum of a convincing season opener. Bakersfield defeated their opponent 28-13 in their season opener, demonstrating a balanced offense and a disciplined defense that could pose challenges for Garfield’s young squad.
Team Profiles
Bakersfield Drillers
Bakersfield enters the matchup with strong confidence after a 28-13 victory in their season opener. The Drillers have consistently showcased a dynamic offense and a tough, disciplined defense.
2025 Season Stats:
- Overall Record: 1-0
- Home/Away: 1-0 / 0-0
- Points For/Against: 28 / 13
- Win Percentage: 100%
Team Scoring Breakdown (Last Game):
- Q1: 0
- Q2: 7
- Q3: 7
- Q4: 14
- Final: 28
Bakersfield’s offense relies heavily on a balanced rushing and passing attack, averaging 202 rushing yards per game and 111 passing yards per game, giving them 313 total yards per contest. On defense, the team averages five tackles per game, keeping opponents contained and creating opportunities for turnovers.
Key Players to Watch:
- Damir Lomax (#84): Leads the team with 92 rushing yards per game and totals 111 yards per game combining all offensive contributions.
- Elijah Cavazos (#9): Quarterback controlling the passing game with 111 passing yards per game.
- Bj Veasey (#0): Receiving threat averaging 35 yards per game.
- Edward Jr Leach (#22): Defensive anchor averaging 2 tackles per game.
Bakersfield has also compiled highlight videos in their first two games, including performances against Buchanan and Colony, which reflect a team that is quick, explosive, and disciplined. Fans can check out their latest clips for game insights and strategy analysis.
Garfield Bulldogs
Garfield enters the 2025 season as underdogs against Bakersfield but has a talented roster and the advantage of playing at home. The Bulldogs are looking to start strong and establish momentum early in their season.
2025 Season Stats:
- Overall Record: 0-0
- Home/Away: 0-0 / 0-0
- Points For/Against: 0 / 0
- Win Percentage: 0%
While Garfield has not yet posted stats this season, their program consistently fields competitive teams and benefits from experienced coaching staff preparing the squad for high-intensity matchups. The Bulldogs’ defensive and offensive units will be tested by Bakersfield’s multi-dimensional attack, making this opening game a critical barometer for the season.
Team Dynamics:
- Garfield lacks season footage so far, which makes their strategies less predictable to opponents.
- The home-field advantage in Los Angeles could play a crucial role in energizing the team and pressuring Bakersfield.
Statistical Matchup
A side-by-side comparison of Bakersfield and Garfield highlights a clear advantage for the Drillers in terms of experience and on-field performance metrics:
| Statistic | Bakersfield | Garfield |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 202 | – |
| Passing Yards/Game | 111 | – |
| Receiving Yards/Game | 111 | – |
| Total Yards/Game | 313 | – |
| Tackles/Game | 5 | – |
Bakersfield’s ability to move the ball both on the ground and through the air will be a key test for Garfield’s defense. Conversely, Garfield will rely on home energy and disciplined execution to contain the Drillers’ playmakers.
Player Matchups
Offensive Matchups
- Bakersfield RB Damir Lomax vs Garfield Defensive Front: Lomax’s dual-threat capabilities in both rushing and total offensive yardage will test the Bulldogs’ defensive line early.
- Bakersfield QB Elijah Cavazos vs Garfield Secondary: Cavazos’ 111 passing yards per game indicate he can stretch the field and create opportunities for his receivers.
- Garfield Playmakers: The Bulldogs will need their skill positions to make explosive plays, as they will likely trail if Bakersfield establishes a ground-and-pound rhythm.
Defensive Matchups
- Edward Jr Leach vs Garfield Offensive Line: Leach’s presence as a tackler could disrupt Garfield’s offensive timing if the Drillers’ defensive line executes effectively.
- Garfield Defensive Strategy: Containment of both the run and short passing game will be essential to keep Bakersfield’s scoring under control.
Historical Context
While Bakersfield and Garfield have not faced each other in previous seasons, their historical records provide context for expectations. Bakersfield ranks 1,982 nationally and 161 within California, demonstrating a competitive program within the state. Garfield, ranked 3,692 nationally and 254 in California, has historically built strong teams but faces an uphill battle against a Drillers squad with an early-season victory already on the board.
The game will also test how both teams adapt to non-league opponents. Bakersfield has already faced in-state competition, while Garfield looks to make a statement in their home opener.
Game Predictions & Key Factors
Several factors will determine the outcome of this non-conference battle:
- Momentum: Bakersfield arrives with momentum and a proven starting lineup.
- Home Advantage: Garfield’s home crowd could energize the Bulldogs, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Turnover Battle: Early turnovers could swing momentum; both teams must limit mistakes.
- Player Execution: Key players like Lomax and Cavazos for Bakersfield and Garfield’s top offensive and defensive contributors will dictate scoring opportunities.
While Bakersfield appears to have an edge statistically, Garfield’s preparation and ability to capitalize on home energy could make this matchup closer than expected.
How to Follow the Game
Fans can follow live coverage from the team reporters: George Garfield for Bakersfield and Geo Garcia for Garfield. Additionally, highlights from Bakersfield’s previous games are available online, providing insights into the team’s strategies and top performers.
For continuous updates on all California high school football events, visit California High School Football Events.
Looking Ahead
This game serves as a crucial early-season test for both programs:
- Bakersfield: A win would strengthen their early-season standing and continue building momentum for conference play.
- Garfield: A strong showing in their opener would signal readiness to compete in a challenging 2025 schedule.
Fans should expect a competitive, fast-paced matchup with standout performances on both sides of the ball. Whether it’s Bakersfield asserting their early dominance or Garfield leveraging home advantage, this game will offer plenty of action for high school football enthusiasts across California.
Conclusion
The Bakersfield vs Garfield matchup on August 28 is more than just an early-season game—it’s a statement for both programs as they launch into the 2025 season. Bakersfield’s balanced offense and proven performance face a Garfield team hungry to make an impact in front of their home crowd. With high stakes, skilled players, and passionate fan bases, Thursday night promises high school football at its finest.
Stay connected to all California high school football updates at California High School Football Events and don’t miss a single play from this exciting matchup.
