The Friday night lights are set to shine bright in California high school football as Hawkins vs Canoga Park takes center stage on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. This non-conference matchup will be hosted by Canoga Park High School, where the Hunters look to keep their winning streak alive against a determined Hawkins Hawks squad.
Hawkins vs Canoga Park Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Hawkins vs Canoga Park
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Fans can secure their digital tickets through GoFan and catch the action in person, or watch live online via the NFHS Network. With both teams coming into this contest with momentum, this game promises to be an exciting early-season battle.
Hawkins Hawks: Balancing Wins and Lessons
The Hawkins Hawks (1-1) enter Friday’s clash after splitting their first two games of the season. Their record shows promise, with a powerful 48-6 victory over Reseda on August 28 proving their offensive potential. However, the Hawks also faced a setback in their other outing, leaving them eager to establish consistency before heading into league play.
Statistically, Hawkins has shown flashes of brilliance. They average 34 points per game and rack up 181 total yards per contest, leaning on a balanced attack. The Hawks’ strength on the ground is undeniable, with standout rusher #5 Desmaj Murphy leading the way at 71.5 rushing yards per game and 91.5 total yards per game.
The passing game, led by quarterback #15 Fernando Paniagua, adds another layer to their offense, contributing 35.5 passing yards per game. Complementing him is receiver #2 Jamarieah Wallace, who has averaged 29 receiving yards per outing, keeping defenses honest. On defense, #27 Zhair Muschamp has been a force with 11 tackles per game, well above the national average of 3.4.
While the Hawks’ numbers show potential, their challenge will be maintaining consistency across all four quarters.
Canoga Park Hunters: Riding High at 2-0
On the other side, the Canoga Park Hunters (2-0) bring an undefeated record into their home field. Their defense-first identity has shined, holding opponents to just 22 total points through two games. Meanwhile, their offense has averaged 23.5 points per game, scoring steadily in each quarter with a balanced distribution.
The Hunters’ early-season performances highlight their ability to control the tempo of games. While their individual stat leaders were not listed, the team-oriented approach has propelled them to victories both at home and on the road.
Their biggest test so far comes this Friday, as they face a Hawkins team known for explosive plays. With a matchup against Reseda still on the horizon (October 3), this non-league game could serve as a strong measuring stick for where the Hunters stand in 2025.
Rankings and Records Snapshot
- Hawkins Hawks (1-1)
- National: 13,851
- California: 1,024
- Section: 61
- Points For: 68 | Points Allowed: 54
- Canoga Park Hunters (2-0)
- National: 13,523
- California: 979
- Section: 53
- Points For: 47 | Points Allowed: 22
The rankings reflect how close these programs are, but Canoga Park holds a slight edge with an undefeated record and stronger defensive stats.
Key Matchup Factors
- Offense vs. Defense
- Hawkins thrives on its ability to put points on the board, with explosive playmakers leading the charge. Canoga Park, meanwhile, has relied on stifling defense. Which identity will dictate the flow of the game?
- Murphy’s Ground Game
- Hawkins’ Desmaj Murphy has proven to be a game-changer. If he finds running lanes early, the Hawks could tilt momentum in their favor.
- Canoga Park’s Consistency
- The Hunters have won by controlling the game steadily across all four quarters. If they continue that trend, Hawkins may struggle to keep up.
- Common Opponents Ahead
- Both teams will face Reseda and Rancho Dominguez later this season. Friday’s contest could foreshadow how they’ll fare in those upcoming games.
Historical Context
This will be the first recorded meeting between Hawkins and Canoga Park, adding an extra layer of intrigue. With no head-to-head history, both sides enter with a clean slate and the chance to set the tone for future encounters.
What’s at Stake
For Hawkins, a win would mean getting back above .500 and building momentum before facing Rancho Dominguez on October 3. For Canoga Park, protecting home turf and moving to 3-0 would solidify their place as one of the stronger starts in California high school football this season.
With standings, rankings, and early bragging rights on the line, both programs have plenty to fight for.
Final Word
The Hawkins vs Canoga Park matchup brings together two teams eager to prove themselves on the California high school football stage. Hawkins has the offensive firepower to light up the scoreboard, while Canoga Park counters with a disciplined defense and undefeated confidence.
Whichever style prevails, fans can expect a thrilling non-conference battle under the lights. Don’t miss out—whether in the stands at Canoga Park High School or streaming live, this is one matchup that promises to deliver excitement.
For more updates on this and other California High School Football matchups, stay tuned to HS Football Insider.
