When Crespi vs Cleveland kicks off on Friday, September 5, 2025, high school football fans in California will be watching closely. This non-conference clash, scheduled for a 7 p.m. kickoff in Reseda, CA, pits two programs on different trajectories but with plenty to prove early in the season. The Crespi Celts (Encino, CA) arrive unbeaten at 2-0, while the Cleveland Cavaliers (Reseda, CA) sit at 1-1, looking to rebound from their opening setback.
Crespi vs Cleveland Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Crespi vs Cleveland
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Fans unable to make it to the stadium can catch the action live on the NFHS Network, while those attending in person can secure their digital tickets through GoFan.
For more updates on high school football in the Golden State, check out California High School Football.
Setting the Stage
The early-season records tell the story of two teams still defining themselves. Crespi has looked sharp, starting 2-0 behind a potent offense and disciplined defense. With 75 points scored and only 16 allowed through two contests, the Celts enter Friday with momentum and confidence.
Cleveland, meanwhile, has experienced both sides of competition. The Cavaliers opened the year with a tough loss to Harvard-Westlake, falling 21-0, but bounced back with a home win to even their record. They’ve scored 70 points in two games while giving up 58, showing they can move the ball but still searching for defensive consistency.
This will be the first head-to-head meeting between Crespi and Cleveland this season, adding intrigue to an already compelling non-conference matchup.
Team Performance and Rankings
Looking at the broader rankings and statistical picture helps explain why this game matters:
- Crespi Celts
- National Rank: 5,027
- California Rank: 324
- Section Rank: 143
- Record: 2-0 overall (1-0 home, 1-0 away)
- Points For: 75
- Points Against: 16
- Win Percentage: 100%
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- National Rank: 7,815
- California Rank: 525
- Section Rank: 11
- Record: 1-1 overall (1-0 home, 0-1 away)
- Points For: 70
- Points Against: 58
- Win Percentage: 50%
On paper, Crespi has the statistical edge. Their defense has been far stingier, giving up just 8 points per game, while their offense is averaging 37.5 points per contest. Cleveland’s offense has also been productive at 35 points per game, but the Cavaliers are allowing 29 points on average, something they’ll need to tighten up against a disciplined Crespi squad.
Scoring Trends
Breaking down quarter-by-quarter scoring averages highlights how these teams approach games:
- Crespi Celts
- 1st Quarter: 14.0
- 2nd Quarter: 14.0
- 3rd Quarter: 0.0
- 4th Quarter: 13.0
- Average Final Score: 37.5
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1st Quarter: 10.5
- 2nd Quarter: 7.0
- 3rd Quarter: 10.5
- 4th Quarter: 7.0
- Average Final Score: 35.0
Crespi has been dominant early, often jumping out to big leads before easing off in the third quarter. Cleveland, by contrast, shows more balance across quarters, suggesting the Cavaliers adjust well during games. That resilience could matter in a matchup where execution in the second half may determine the winner.
Key Statistical Comparison
| Category | Crespi | Cleveland |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 124.0 | 229.0 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 184.5 | 123.0 |
| Total Yards/Game | 308.5 | 352.0 |
| Tackles/Game | 54.5 | 65.0 |
| Sacks/Game | 3.0 | 0.5 |
| Points/Game | 37.5 | 35.0 |
The Cavaliers’ strength lies in their ground game, averaging nearly 230 rushing yards per contest. Crespi, however, counters with more balance, posting stronger passing production at nearly 185 yards per game. Defensively, Crespi has proven disruptive with an average of 3 sacks per outing, while Cleveland will look to close the gap in that department.
Players to Watch
Every matchup comes down to key performers, and Crespi vs Cleveland is no exception:
- Crespi Celts
- Royel McFarlane (#23): A steady contributor at 53 rushing yards per game.
- Chase Curren (#13): The offensive engine with 184.5 passing yards per game and 213.5 total yards per game.
- Stephen Nunez (#2): Reliable in the receiving game, averaging 60 yards per game.
- James Moffat (#56): Defensive leader with 6 tackles per game.
- Somto Nwude (#38/76): Brings pressure with 1.0 sack per game.
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Moyosoreoluwa Odebunmi (#4): Explosive rusher, leading with 166 yards per game.
- Julio Avalos (#7): Steady quarterback averaging 115.5 passing yards per game.
- Cobe Green (#13): A two-way impact player with 64 receiving yards per game and 10.5 tackles per game.
- Brandon Maldonado (#1): Adds defensive presence with 0.5 sacks per game.
- Andrew Saca (#56): Still searching for a breakthrough in scoring, but a key presence on the field.
Common Opponents and Lessons Learned
The Cavaliers already faced Harvard-Westlake this season, losing 21-0 in their opener. Crespi has not yet played them but will see them later in October. That early result highlights Cleveland’s inconsistency—they were shut out in Week 1, only to explode offensively in their next outing. Crespi will surely study that film to identify weaknesses in Cleveland’s offensive line and secondary.
Keys to Victory
- For Crespi:
- Keep the balanced offense rolling with Curren distributing the ball.
- Pressure Cleveland’s run game, especially Odebunmi, who is averaging 166 rushing yards.
- Maintain defensive discipline that has limited opponents to 16 points all year.
- For Cleveland:
- Control time of possession with their powerful rushing attack.
- Limit turnovers and sustain drives to keep Crespi’s offense off the field.
- Step up defensively—particularly in the pass rush—to disrupt Curren’s rhythm.
Atmosphere and Fan Engagement
Friday’s matchup isn’t just about the players on the field. The energy of Reseda’s home crowd will play a big role. Cleveland’s faithful fans will want to see their Cavaliers notch a statement win over a strong Crespi side. Meanwhile, Crespi supporters will travel with confidence, expecting their team’s undefeated streak to continue.
The NFHS Network live stream ensures fans everywhere can tune in, but for those in Los Angeles County, the best seat in the house will be at Cleveland’s home stadium under the lights.
Looking Ahead
While this is a non-league game, the outcome will set the tone for both programs heading into tougher stretches of their schedules. Crespi wants to remain unbeaten, climbing higher in California’s competitive rankings. Cleveland hopes to prove that their 1-1 start is just a small bump on the road to a successful season.
The Cavaliers especially need to demonstrate they can compete with higher-ranked opponents, and a win over Crespi would go a long way toward earning respect across the state.
Final Thoughts
The Crespi vs Cleveland matchup carries more weight than a typical early-season non-conference contest. With contrasting styles—Crespi’s balance and defense versus Cleveland’s ground-heavy offense—this game promises to be a chess match on the field.
Kickoff is set for Friday, September 5, at 7 p.m. in Reseda, and fans can expect a battle that will showcase both teams’ strengths.
For continued coverage, scores, and updates from across the state, visit California High School Football.
