The San Pedro (CA) Pirates are set to host the Kennedy Cougars (Granada Hills, CA) tonight in a highly anticipated non-conference showdown at 7:30 PM. Both teams enter the game with contrasting early-season records: Kennedy boasts a perfect 1-0 start, while San Pedro is looking to bounce back from an opening-week setback. This game promises high stakes, dynamic offensive play, and a chance for the Pirates to rebound in front of their home crowd.
Kennedy vs San Pedro Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Kennedy vs San Pedro
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Live stream: Watch here
For fans planning to attend, digital tickets are available via GoFan. With a fast-paced matchup on the horizon, the Kennedy vs San Pedro game is one of California’s standout high school football events this week.
Team Overview: Kennedy Cougars
The Kennedy Cougars enter the contest with confidence after a dominating season opener. The team showed an explosive offense, averaging 59 points per game and accumulating 609 total yards in their first outing. Led by versatile athlete Diego Montes, Kennedy has demonstrated the ability to control both the rushing and passing game. Montes is averaging 178 rushing yards per game and 300 passing yards per game, putting him among the top high school performers nationally.
Wide receiver Jay Saucillo adds another dynamic threat, averaging 112 receiving yards per game, making Kennedy’s passing game difficult to defend. The Cougars’ offensive line has also contributed significantly, tallying 14 pancake blocks in their first game, providing the foundation for both explosive runs and clean passing lanes.
Kennedy’s defense has been opportunistic as well, registering 49 tackles per game. While they allowed 56 points in their season opener, the Cougars’ ability to generate turnovers and pressure opposing quarterbacks will be key in tonight’s matchup against the Pirates.
Nationally, Kennedy ranks 7,449th, while within California, the team is positioned at 501st, and in their Section, they hold the 10th spot. These rankings reflect a team capable of competing with strong opponents, even on the road.
Team Overview: San Pedro Pirates
The Pirates are eager to redeem themselves after a tough 0-1 start, having scored only 13 points while allowing 37 in their opener. San Pedro’s challenge will be stopping Kennedy’s multifaceted attack while generating enough offense to keep the game competitive.
Offensively, San Pedro has yet to find its rhythm, with no rushing, passing, or receiving yards reported from their first contest. However, young talents and strategic adjustments from the coaching staff could lead to a more balanced and productive attack tonight. The Pirates will rely heavily on their home-field advantage and fan support to spark momentum.
On defense, San Pedro faces a significant test. The team will need to increase tackling efficiency, improve pass coverage, and limit explosive plays to contain Kennedy’s high-powered offense. With Jacob DaSilva leading the team in tackles at 7 per game, the Pirates have leaders capable of rallying the defense under pressure.
San Pedro ranks 4,478th nationally, 293rd in California, and 4th in their Section, highlighting a competitive team that can challenge opponents with the right game plan.
Statistical Matchup: Kennedy vs San Pedro
Offense
Kennedy’s offense leads with 309 rushing yards per game and an equal 300 passing yards per game, demonstrating a balanced attack that stresses opponents on all fronts. In contrast, San Pedro’s offensive production remains limited, with minimal yardage from their opening game.
The Cougars’ total offensive output of 609 yards per game will test San Pedro’s defensive line and secondary. Kennedy’s ability to dominate both the ground and aerial game means the Pirates must be disciplined, maintain gap integrity, and avoid giving up big plays early.
Defense
Kennedy’s defense recorded 49 tackles per game in Week 1, showcasing the team’s ability to swarm the ball. San Pedro’s defense, while untested against an offense of Kennedy’s caliber, must step up to prevent early scoring runs that could define the game’s momentum.
Pancake blocks from Kennedy’s offensive line, totaling 14 in their opener, will be another focal point. San Pedro’s defensive front will need to penetrate, disrupt timing, and limit big plays in both the rushing and passing game.
Key Players to Watch
Kennedy Cougars
- Diego Montes (#8): Dual-threat quarterback and running back. Montes’ ability to rush for 178 yards and pass for 300 yards makes him a constant scoring threat.
- Jay Saucillo (#1): Wide receiver with 112 yards per game, capable of changing the game with a single explosive play.
- Lazaro Barajas (#71): Offensive lineman responsible for 14 pancake blocks, ensuring clean lanes for both rushing and passing attacks.
San Pedro Pirates
- Jacob DaSilva (#28): Defensive leader averaging 7 tackles per game, essential for slowing down Kennedy’s offensive momentum.
- Team Leaders: While the Pirates are still searching for offensive rhythm, individual playmakers may emerge in the first half to spark scoring drives.
Head-to-Head & Records
This matchup marks the first meeting between Kennedy and San Pedro, making it a fresh test for both programs.
- Kennedy: 1-0 overall, 1-0 at home, 0-0 away
- San Pedro: 0-1 overall, 0-1 at home, 0-0 away
In terms of league play, neither team has recorded a league game yet. The non-league matchup allows both coaches to experiment with lineups and strategies, setting the tone for the rest of the season.
Game Predictions and Key Factors
Several elements will likely decide the outcome of tonight’s game:
- Kennedy’s balanced offense: If Montes continues his dual-threat performance and Saucillo finds open space, Kennedy could control the clock and scoreboard.
- San Pedro’s defensive adjustments: The Pirates’ ability to adapt to Kennedy’s varied offensive sets and limit explosive plays will be critical.
- Home-field advantage: Playing at San Pedro provides energy and momentum for the Pirates, potentially helping them overcome early deficits.
- Turnover battle: Games of this nature often hinge on turnovers. San Pedro must protect the ball, while Kennedy must capitalize on mistakes.
While Kennedy enters as the statistical favorite, San Pedro has the potential for an upset with disciplined defense and timely offensive execution.
Fan Information & Tickets
Fans attending tonight’s game can purchase digital tickets through GoFan. The contest kicks off at 7:30 PM, and early arrival is recommended to secure the best seats. San Pedro’s stadium atmosphere is known for passionate supporters, making it an exciting venue for this high-stakes matchup.
Follow Kennedy vs San Pedro
For real-time score updates and in-depth coverage, Ozzie Tejeda reports for Kennedy, while Abel Ochoa provides updates for San Pedro. Fans and analysts alike will be watching how both teams execute their game plans, adjust mid-game, and showcase high school football talent at its best.
This matchup is also part of the broader California high school football landscape. For a full schedule of games, rankings, and news, visit California High School Football.
Conclusion
The Kennedy vs San Pedro game is shaping up to be a thrilling non-conference contest. Kennedy looks to extend their early-season success, while San Pedro seeks redemption in front of their home crowd. Fans can expect an explosive first half, strategic second-half adjustments, and key individual performances that could tip the balance.
Whether you’re following the stats, scouting potential playoff contenders, or simply enjoying Friday night football, tonight’s matchup delivers excitement, competition, and the spirit of high school athletics. Don’t miss the chance to see Kennedy and San Pedro face off in this pivotal early-season encounter.
Catch all the action and updates for this and other California high school football events at HS Football Insider.
