The Santa Barbara Dons will host a high-stakes non-conference showdown against the Corona del Mar Sea Kings on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Santa Barbara High School. Both teams enter the matchup undefeated, each carrying a 1-0 record into the contest, promising fans an exciting opener to the season.
Corona del Mar vs Santa Barbara Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Corona del Mar vs Santa Barbara
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Tickets for the game are available digitally via GoFan, and fans unable to attend in person can catch the action live on the NFHS Network.
Team Overview
Corona del Mar Sea Kings
The Sea Kings have started their season on a strong note, outscoring opponents 41-6 in their opening game. With a national ranking of 514, they stand 58th in California and 36th in their section, reflecting their competitive edge early in the season.
Corona del Mar’s offense has been explosive, posting 28 points in the first quarter and 13 in the second, while shutting out opponents in the second half. Quarterback Brady Annett has been instrumental to their success, averaging 256 passing yards per game and contributing 54 rushing yards on top of 310 total yards per game. Wide receiver Dorsett Stecker has added a significant receiving threat with 104 yards per game, ensuring the Sea Kings have multiple offensive weapons.
Defensively, Corona del Mar has been solid, recording 78 tackles per game, though they are yet to register a sack this season. Their aggressive start has set a tone for Friday’s game, and the team will look to maintain momentum against Santa Barbara’s well-rounded attack.
Santa Barbara Dons
The Dons have also begun the season with a strong showing, winning their first game 21-14. Ranked 1,391st nationally, 118th in California, and 64th in their section, Santa Barbara aims to make a statement against a high-ranking non-league opponent.
Santa Barbara’s offense relies heavily on running back Ben Medina, who averages 83 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Griffin Arnold has already thrown for 109 yards per game. Receiver Cade Mault contributes 30 receiving yards per game, giving the Dons a balanced but slightly ground-heavy offensive approach.
Defensively, Santa Barbara matches up well, with 76 tackles per game and 1 sack per game. The Dons will aim to slow down the Sea Kings’ high-powered offense while leveraging their own scoring opportunities.
Statistical Comparison
A quick look at team stats highlights an interesting clash of styles:
| Category | Corona del Mar | Santa Barbara |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 100.0 | 175.0 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 261.0 | 109.0 |
| Receiving Yards/Game | 261.0 | 101.0 |
| Total Yards/Game | 361.0 | 284.0 |
| Tackles/Game | 78.0 | 76.0 |
| Sacks/Game | 0 | 1.0 |
| Points/Game | 41.0 | 21.0 |
Corona del Mar boasts a dominant passing attack, while Santa Barbara relies more heavily on the run game. This contrast could dictate the pace of Friday’s matchup, with the Sea Kings looking to strike quickly through the air and the Dons aiming to control the clock on the ground.
Key Players to Watch
Corona del Mar
- Brady Annett (#4): The quarterback and offensive leader, Annett combines passing efficiency with rushing ability, making him the central figure in the Sea Kings’ game plan.
- Dorsett Stecker (#0): Stecker provides a reliable target in the passing game, consistently gaining yards after the catch.
- Nolan Scott (#19): Leading the defense with 7 tackles per game, Scott will play a key role in trying to slow Santa Barbara’s run attack.
Santa Barbara
- Ben Medina (#6): Medina’s running game could be the Dons’ biggest weapon, especially in controlling possession and keeping Corona del Mar’s offense off the field.
- Griffin Arnold (#16): Arnold’s ability to make plays through the air complements Medina’s ground dominance, giving Santa Barbara a balanced attack.
- Everett Rabb Preston (#25): Defensive pressure from Preston, who records 1 sack per game, will be critical in disrupting the Sea Kings’ passing rhythm.
Game Outlook
Friday’s Corona del Mar vs Santa Barbara matchup promises to be a competitive, fast-paced contest. The Sea Kings’ high-flying passing game will test the Dons’ defensive line and linebackers, while Santa Barbara’s ground game aims to control the tempo and keep the ball away from Corona del Mar’s playmakers.
Historically, these teams have not faced off, so Friday’s game also marks a fresh rivalry in California high school football. Both programs enter with perfect records and playoff aspirations, adding extra intensity to this non-conference clash.
Given their explosive offense, Corona del Mar might have the edge in scoring potential, but Santa Barbara’s balanced approach and defensive toughness could make the game closer than expected. Fans should anticipate big plays, strategic adjustments, and an exciting finish under the Friday night lights.
How to Watch
- Tickets: Available online at GoFan
- Live Stream: NFHS Network coverage will broadcast the game for fans unable to attend.
Whether in the stands or online, fans of California high school football won’t want to miss this early-season battle between two undefeated teams.
Final Thoughts
The Corona del Mar Sea Kings and Santa Barbara Dons kick off their non-league schedules with a matchup that promises scoring, athleticism, and competitive intensity. Both teams will look to maintain their 1-0 records while setting a tone for the season ahead. With standout players on both sides and contrasting offensive strategies, Friday’s contest is shaping up to be one of the most exciting games in early California high school football.
This game is a must-watch for fans following California football, as it provides an early glimpse of which team may emerge as a strong contender for the rest of the season.
For more updates on California high school football events, visit HS Football Insider.
