High school football fans in California are in for an exciting non-conference matchup this week as the Anderson Cubs host the Live Oak Lions on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at Anderson High School. This game, which promises to bring energy and skill to the field, is the first home outing for the Cubs this season and represents an early test for both teams as they seek to establish momentum.
Live Oak vs Anderson Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Live Oak vs Anderson
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Fans can catch the action live on the NFHS Network, making it accessible for supporters near and far. For anyone following California high school football, this showdown is shaping up to be a highlight of the opening month. For more coverage of California High School Football, visit HS Football Insider.
Team Records and Rankings
Heading into Friday’s contest, Anderson comes in with a perfect 1-0 record after a dominant season opener. Their early performance included a commanding 38-0 victory, demonstrating the Cubs’ offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Anderson ranks nationally at 11,557, with a California state ranking of 793. Within the section and division, they are positioned at 24 and 10, respectively.
On the other side, Live Oak enters the matchup without a win, holding a 0-0 record to start the season. While the Lions have yet to display their form in competition, they are ready to test themselves against one of the top-performing local teams. Live Oak’s national ranking stands at 11,611, and within California, they are ranked 796. In section play, they sit at 25, with a division ranking of 11.
Offensive and Defensive Profiles
Anderson’s early-season stats highlight a balanced and high-scoring offense. The Cubs have averaged 38 points per game, distributing scoring across each quarter (Q1: 8, Q2: 14, Q3: 8, Q4: 8). Their attack is versatile, combining a strong rushing game with effective passing. Leading the offense is quarterback Cooper Crye, who averages 288 passing yards per game, complemented by wide receiver Michael Manley, who has been the team’s primary receiving threat with 109 yards per game. Jagger Johnson leads the rushing attack with 121 yards per game, demonstrating Anderson’s ability to move the ball consistently on the ground. Overall, the Cubs average 431 total yards per game, making them a formidable opponent for Live Oak.
As for Live Oak, the statistics for the new season are not yet available, leaving some questions about how the Lions will match up. Their team leaders and scoring averages remain unrecorded, which adds an element of uncertainty heading into this first matchup. However, the Lions’ preparation and practice reports suggest they will bring competitive energy to Anderson’s home field.
Key Matchup to Watch
The Live Oak vs Anderson matchup will likely hinge on Anderson’s offensive rhythm versus Live Oak’s defensive adjustments. With Anderson’s ability to score consistently in all four quarters, Live Oak will need to develop strategies to slow down the Cubs’ high-powered attack. The Lions’ offensive potential remains an open question, meaning Anderson’s defense will face a unique challenge in anticipating their schemes.
Quarterback play, in particular, could be the deciding factor. Cooper Crye has already proven capable of moving the chains and connecting with his top receivers, but Live Oak’s defensive line will need to disrupt his timing to keep the game competitive. Meanwhile, Live Oak’s quarterback and receivers will have an opportunity to make an early impression on a larger stage, and the first few drives could set the tone for the evening.
Game Location and Broadcast
The game takes place at Anderson High School, providing the Cubs with home-field advantage. Fans planning to attend should arrive early to secure seats, as local rivalries and opening-week enthusiasm often draw a strong crowd. For those unable to make it in person, the NFHS Network will stream the game live, giving supporters access to every down and highlight. This streaming option has become increasingly popular among California high school football programs, allowing fans to follow the season even from a distance.
Historical Context and Season Outlook
Although this is the first official meeting between the Anderson Cubs and Live Oak Lions for the 2025 season, both teams have a history of competitive play within the region. Anderson’s opening-game success suggests they could be strong contenders within the section, while Live Oak is still working to find its rhythm.
Looking ahead, Live Oak has matchups scheduled against Central Valley (Sep. 26), Las Plumas (Oct. 10), and Oroville (Oct. 30), which will test their abilities across various opponents. Anderson, meanwhile, will face Las Plumas (Sep. 12), Oroville (Oct. 3), and Central Valley (Oct. 31), creating opportunities to solidify their early-season dominance.
The Live Oak vs Anderson game is shaping up to be an exciting early-season contest in California high school football. Anderson enters as the favorite following their strong 38-0 win, but Live Oak has the chance to surprise and gain their first win of the season. With high stakes, passionate fans, and talented players on both sides, Friday night promises competitive football from start to finish.
Fans should tune in on NFHS Network or attend in person to catch every play, touchdown, and defensive stop. For complete California high school football coverage, schedules, and highlights, visit HS Football Insider.
