The California high school football season is heating up, and one of the most anticipated matchups this week features Lincoln vs Legacy. The Legacy Tigers (South Gate, CA) will host the Lincoln Tigers (Los Angeles, CA) in a non-conference battle on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Both programs enter the game with something to prove—Legacy riding high after an impressive opening win, and Lincoln looking to bounce back from a narrow defeat.
Lincoln vs Legacy Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Lincoln vs Legacy
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
This early-season contest is more than just a non-league game. It’s a chance for both schools to showcase their growth, establish momentum, and stake a claim among Southern California’s competitive football landscape.
Team Records & Season Outlook
Lincoln Tigers (0-1 Overall)
Lincoln opened its 2025–26 campaign with a tough 21-19 road loss. While the Tigers showed flashes of talent, they couldn’t close the game late. Ranked 870th in California and 12,358th nationally, Lincoln has ground to cover if they want to climb the standings.
2025 Stats So Far:
- Points For: 19
- Points Against: 21
- Win %: 0.000
- Total Yards Per Game: 291.0
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 196.0
- Passing Yards Per Game: 95.0
- Tackles Per Game: 61.0
Despite the loss, Lincoln’s run game showed promise. If they can control the line of scrimmage and avoid costly mistakes, they’ll be in position to challenge Legacy.
Legacy Tigers (1-0 Overall)
Legacy couldn’t have asked for a better start. They dominated their season opener, securing a 33-7 victory at home. Ranked slightly higher than Lincoln at 822nd in California and 11,783rd nationally, the South Gate squad will try to keep their momentum rolling.
2025 Stats So Far:
- Points For: 33
- Points Against: 7
- Win %: 1.000
- Total Yards Per Game: 320.0
- Passing Yards Per Game: 232.0
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 88.0
- Tackles Per Game: 59.0
The passing attack, led by senior quarterback Edward Novelo, has already proven lethal. With nearly 250 yards through the air in the opener, Legacy is looking like a team built to stretch defenses.
Key Players to Watch
Lincoln Tigers
- RB Andrew Ayon (#10): Ayon carried the offense in Week 1, rushing for 106 yards per game and leading Lincoln in total yards. His ability to break tackles and grind out tough yardage makes him the centerpiece of the offense.
- QB Andrew Evangelista (#9): Passed for 72 yards in the opener. Needs a stronger outing to balance the offense.
- WR/DB Dominic Robledo (#8): Added 39 receiving yards and a team-high 16 tackles. A two-way leader who sets the tone physically.
Legacy Tigers
- QB Edward Novelo (#1): The heart of Legacy’s offense, Novelo threw for 232 yards in Week 1. His ability to command the passing game could be the deciding factor.
- WR Joseph Rodriguez (#11): Hauled in 102 receiving yards, giving Novelo a reliable deep threat.
- RB Jason Rodriguez (#5): Contributed 41 rushing yards, complementing the air attack.
- LB Michael Smith (#10): Anchored the defense with 12 tackles, showing a nose for the football.
Statistical Matchup: Lincoln vs Legacy
| Category | Lincoln | Legacy |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 196.0 | 88.0 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 95.0 | 232.0 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 291.0 | 320.0 |
| Tackles Per Game | 61.0 | 59.0 |
| Points Per Game | 19.0 | 33.0 |
This matchup presents a contrast of styles. Lincoln thrives on its running game, pounding the ball behind Ayon and a physical offensive line. Legacy, on the other hand, spreads the field with Novelo’s passing and explosive receivers.
If Lincoln can control the clock with long drives, they’ll limit Legacy’s possessions. But if Legacy finds its rhythm through the air, it could quickly overwhelm Lincoln’s secondary.
Historical Context
Interestingly, this is the first recorded meeting between Lincoln and Legacy. With no head-to-head history, both teams will enter uncharted territory, making this a fresh rivalry opportunity.
Common opponents later in the season—like Wilson High—will provide additional benchmarks, but for now, bragging rights in this Lincoln vs Legacy clash are on the line.
What’s at Stake
For Lincoln, the game represents a chance to even their record and avoid a 0-2 start. Falling into an early-season hole could hurt morale, especially in a competitive California football landscape.
For Legacy, this is an opportunity to stay perfect and build confidence before league play begins. A win would also solidify their ranking edge over Lincoln and showcase them as one of the rising programs in Southern California.
Check out more California high school football news and updates.
X-Factors
- Lincoln’s Run Defense: Legacy thrives through the air, but Lincoln’s secondary will be tested early and often. Can their defensive backs hold up, or will Novelo pick them apart?
- Turnovers: In early-season games, mistakes often determine the outcome. The team that protects the football will likely prevail.
- Special Teams: Hidden yardage in the return game could swing field position. Both teams will need sharp execution.
Prediction: Lincoln vs Legacy
This matchup feels like a clash of old-school football versus modern spread offense. Lincoln’s rushing attack is strong, but they’ll need more balance through the air to keep pace. Legacy, led by Novelo’s passing, looks like the more dynamic team.
Projected Final Score:
- Legacy 27, Lincoln 17
Legacy’s aerial attack should give them the edge at home, but Lincoln’s ground game will keep things competitive deep into the second half.
Final Word
The Lincoln vs Legacy showdown is more than just a non-conference matchup—it’s an early-season measuring stick for both programs. Will Lincoln’s ground-and-pound approach wear down Legacy, or will Novelo’s passing fireworks lead South Gate to another victory?
Fans across California will be watching closely as two Tigers collide under the Thursday night lights.
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