The stage is set for a high-octane high school football showdown as the Millikan Rams of Long Beach, California, prepare to host the Loyola Cubs from Los Angeles in a Friday night non-conference matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on August 29, 2025, promising an exciting start to the season for both teams. Fans can secure digital tickets via GoFan to be part of the live-action atmosphere. For more California high school football events, check here.
Loyola vs Millikan Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Loyola vs Millikan
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Team Records and Rankings
Heading into this contest, both squads bring contrasting early-season form. Loyola (0-1) has faced a tough start, struggling to find rhythm offensively, with 14 points scored while allowing 36. The Cubs rank 737th nationally, 68th in California, 42nd in their section, and 6th in their division, reflecting a challenging landscape ahead.
In contrast, the Millikan Rams (2-0) have looked dominant in their opening games. They boast 76 points for and just 34 against, ranking 402nd nationally, 47th in California, 30th in the section, and 3rd in their division. The Rams’ undefeated start has already energized the Long Beach faithful and set the tone for a competitive non-conference schedule.
Offensive and Defensive Matchups
Analyzing the teams statistically reveals intriguing contrasts:
- Rushing and Passing: Loyola averages 187 rushing yards per game but has only managed 160 passing yards, giving a total of 347 yards per contest. Millikan, meanwhile, balances their attack differently, averaging 102 rushing yards but an explosive 342.5 passing yards, totaling 444.5 yards per game.
- Scoring Efficiency: Loyola struggles to convert yards into points, with just 14 points on the board in their opener. Millikan has been consistent, scoring 38 points per game, with scoring contributions spread across all quarters.
- Defensive Performance: Loyola has recorded 57 tackles per game, while Millikan boasts 69.5, with notable defensive impact from Peyton McCutcheon, who averages 2 sacks per game.
This contrast in styles sets the stage for an interesting clash: will Loyola rely on their ground game to control the clock, or can Millikan’s aerial attack dictate the pace?
Key Players to Watch
Loyola Cubs
- Kane Casani (#9) leads the team with 90 rushing yards per game and contributes 14 tackles per game, showcasing his dual-threat abilities on offense and defense.
- JC Rising (#12) has accounted for 160 passing yards and 205 total yards per game, demonstrating potential as the team’s primary offensive driver.
- Tobias Thuss (#83) has been Loyola’s primary target in the passing game with 43 receiving yards per contest.
Millikan Rams
- Ryan Carter (#7) contributes 50 rushing yards per game, providing balance in the Rams’ dynamic offense.
- Ashton Pannell (#9) has been exceptional through the air, averaging 290.5 passing yards and 302.5 total yards per game, a clear offensive focal point.
- Jude Nelson (#4) adds 95 receiving yards per game and 3 points per game, highlighting his scoring potential.
- Defensively, Damian Paz (#6) averages 15.5 tackles per game, underlining Millikan’s defensive prowess.
Recent Form and Trends
Loyola’s opening defeat highlighted areas for improvement. The Cubs scored 0 points in the first three quarters before a late surge added 14 points in the fourth, indicating potential but inconsistency. Their lack of video highlights makes it challenging to evaluate in-game adjustments, yet the team will be eager to respond on the road.
Millikan has displayed a high-powered offense across all quarters, scoring 14, 13.5, 3, and 7.5 points per quarter in their previous games. Video highlights from their August 15 contest against Foothill (3,589 views, 3:35) show strong execution in both passing and defensive schemes, giving fans a preview of the Rams’ aggressive style.
Game Context and Expectations
This Loyola vs Millikan matchup represents a classic California non-conference test. Both programs aim to fine-tune strategies before league play begins. Millikan, with momentum from a 2-0 start, enters as the favorite at home. Loyola, however, carries the potential to disrupt expectations with a strong passing game and emerging talent like JC Rising and Kane Casani.
Historically, there’s no head-to-head record between the two squads, meaning both teams start with a clean slate. This neutral history adds intrigue, as coaches and players alike will be looking to make an early statement in the 2025 season.
What Fans Can Expect
Expect a high-energy Friday night under the lights, with Millikan likely trying to leverage its home-field advantage and passing attack. Loyola will aim to control the game tempo, relying on its rushing attack and key players to keep the contest competitive. The statistical contrasts suggest Millikan may favor an aerial assault, while Loyola may try to run the clock and stay disciplined defensively.
Fans attending the game should anticipate strategic matchups, potential breakout performances, and a lively atmosphere, as both programs seek early-season momentum. Digital ticket availability through GoFan makes it easy for supporters to be part of the action.
Final Thoughts
The Loyola vs Millikan game promises an exciting non-conference showdown. With Millikan’s 2-0 form and Loyola looking for their first win, Friday’s contest is more than just a game—it’s an opportunity for early-season bragging rights and team evaluation. Key players on both sides will likely shape the outcome, while fans in Long Beach can expect a spirited high school football experience.
For fans following California high school football, this matchup is one of the early highlights of the 2025 season. Stay tuned for live updates, highlights, and post-game analysis on California high school football.