The spotlight shines on Los Angeles this Friday night as the Hollywood Sheiks host the Marquez Gladiators in a highly anticipated non-conference clash. Scheduled for September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m., this matchup pits one of the hottest teams in California high school football against a program still searching for its first win of the young season.
Marquez vs Hollywood Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Marquez vs Hollywood
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
With Marquez off to a flawless 2-0 start and Hollywood sitting at 0-1, the stage is set for a battle that could tell us a lot about where both squads are headed in 2025.
For fans keeping track of California high school football events, updates and coverage can always be found at HS Football Insider.
Setting the Scene
The Hollywood Sheiks (0-1) are still finding their rhythm after dropping their season opener at home. While their offense managed to put 22 points on the board, the defense gave up 27, showing early-season growing pains.
On the other hand, the Marquez Gladiators (2-0) look like one of the most complete teams in the region. In two games, they’ve outscored opponents by a combined 89–6, leaving little doubt about their balance on both sides of the ball.
Though this is a non-conference game, it carries weight for both programs. Hollywood is eager to prove they can hang with top competition, while Marquez wants to extend its momentum and solidify itself as a contender in Southern California football.
Rankings and Records
Marquez Gladiators (2-0)
- National Rank: 9,858
- California Rank: 672
- Section Rank: 19
- Points For (PF): 89
- Points Against (PA): 6
- Win Percentage: 100%
- Record: 2-0 overall, 2-0 home, 0-0 away
Hollywood Sheiks (0-1)
- National Rank: 13,786
- California Rank: 1,013
- Section Rank: 59
- Points For (PF): 22
- Points Against (PA): 27
- Win Percentage: 0%
- Record: 0-1 overall, 0-1 home, 0-0 away
The numbers highlight just how dominant Marquez has been through two weeks. Hollywood, however, will rely on home-field energy and the determination of a team still searching for its first breakthrough.
Team Scoring Averages
A closer look at scoring trends offers an even clearer picture:
- Marquez Gladiators average 44.5 points per game, breaking down to 7 points in the first quarter, 14 in the second, 7 in the third, and 14 in the fourth. Their offense starts steady and finishes even stronger, often burying teams in the final frame.
- Hollywood Sheiks average 22 points per game, with their biggest production coming in the middle quarters. They’ve shown the ability to move the ball but haven’t sustained it across all four quarters.
Comparing the Numbers
Statistically, Marquez has the edge across nearly every category:
| Category | Marquez | Hollywood |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 224.0 | 76.0 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 147.5 | 64.0 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 146.0 | 49.0 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 371.5 | 140.0 |
| Tackles Per Game | 75.0 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.5 | – |
| Pancake Blocks | 7 | – |
The Gladiators are outgaining their opponents by more than 230 yards per game, and their defense has been nearly impenetrable. Hollywood will need a near-perfect game to keep pace.
Player Spotlights
Marquez Gladiators
- #8 Gilberto Cisneros: The team’s workhorse, averaging 82.5 rushing yards per game, setting the tone on the ground.
- #2 Angelo Gutierrez-Molina: A dual-threat quarterback putting up 107.5 passing yards per game and 121 total yards per game, making him the centerpiece of the Gladiator offense.
- #13 Jonathan Ramirez: Leads the team in receiving with 76 yards per game, providing a deep-ball option.
- #7 Mario Flores Jr.: Defensive anchor with 13 tackles per game, setting a high bar in physical play.
- #11 Elyjah Staples: Brings pressure off the edge with 1.5 sacks per game.
- #17 Giovanny Calderon: Reliable scorer, averaging 5 points per game.
Hollywood Sheiks
- #8 Lucas Gatsiounis: The offensive leader, producing 38 rushing yards per game, 64 passing yards per game, and 102 total yards per game. He carries much of the offensive load.
- #3 Andrew Lazo: Top receiving threat with 32 yards per game.
- Other categories remain incomplete, as Hollywood has yet to showcase consistent production across the board.
Record Breakdown
- Marquez is undefeated (2-0) with both wins coming in non-league play. They haven’t played away from home yet, making this their first test on the road.
- Hollywood is 0-1, with that lone game also being non-league. They haven’t played on the road either, which makes this game another home opportunity to prove themselves.
Interestingly, these two programs have no head-to-head history in recent years, meaning this will be a fresh matchup.
Keys to Victory
For Marquez
- Stay Balanced on Offense: With nearly 372 yards of total offense per game, the Gladiators don’t need to change much. Establishing the run early will open up Gutierrez-Molina’s passing game.
- Control the Tempo: Their ability to finish games strong suggests stamina is a weapon. Keeping the pressure on through all four quarters will wear Hollywood down.
- Defensive Pressure: Targeting Gatsiounis will be crucial. If Hollywood’s primary playmaker gets bottled up, the Sheiks’ offense could stall completely.
For Hollywood
- Limit Big Plays: Marquez thrives on explosive scoring runs. Hollywood’s defense must keep everything in front of them.
- Sustain Drives: With just 140 yards per game, the Sheiks can’t afford three-and-outs. Longer drives will also keep Marquez’s offense off the field.
- Lean on Gatsiounis: As both a passer and rusher, he must find ways to extend plays and give his team scoring chances.
What’s at Stake
For Marquez, a win would push their record to 3-0 and keep them among California’s most efficient squads early in the season. Their strong numbers on both sides of the ball suggest they could become a serious postseason threat if this pace continues.
For Hollywood, a victory would not only give them their first win of 2025 but also validate their program’s development. Beating an undefeated Marquez team would be a statement that the Sheiks can rise in the California ranks.
Final Thoughts
Friday’s Marquez vs Hollywood matchup offers a classic early-season storyline: a dominant, undefeated team testing its strength against a hungry underdog playing at home. The Gladiators bring depth, balance, and momentum. The Sheiks bring urgency, resilience, and the opportunity to flip their season’s trajectory.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on September 5, 2025, at Hollywood High in Los Angeles. Expect a charged atmosphere, especially with Hollywood fighting to avoid falling to 0-2.
For fans following California high school football, this game is one to circle. You can stay updated on coverage and other matchups at HS Football Insider.
