The 2025 high school football season is off to an electrifying start in California, and tonight’s matchup between Palisades Dolphins and Harvard-Westlake Wolverines promises to be one of the early highlights. Set for Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM, this non-conference clash at Harvard-Westlake High School in Studio City, CA offers fans a chance to witness a battle between two teams eager to establish dominance from the very beginning of the season.
Palisades vs Harvard-Westlake Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Palisades vs Harvard-Westlake
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
For fans who cannot make it to the stadium, digital tickets are available through GoFan, and the game can be streamed live on the NFHS Network, ensuring everyone has the chance to follow the action.
Team Overview: Palisades Dolphins
The Palisades Dolphins, hailing from Pacific Palisades, CA, enter the matchup with a clean slate. The 2025 season marks the beginning of their campaign, as the Dolphins hold a 0-0 record both overall and within their league. Despite the lack of results, expectations are high for Palisades, whose program has a history of producing disciplined, competitive football squads.
Rankings & Records for Palisades (25-26 Season)
- National Rank: 5,018
- California Rank: 327
- Section Rank: 6
- Overall Record: 0-0
- Home Record: 0-0
- Away Record: 0-0
Offensively, the Dolphins are looking to find their rhythm early, and tonight’s matchup against a formidable Harvard-Westlake defense will be a critical test. With no prior scores to analyze, the game represents a chance for Palisades to set the tone for the season.
Team Overview: Harvard-Westlake Wolverines
The Harvard-Westlake Wolverines, based in Studio City, CA, come into tonight’s game with momentum on their side. Having opened their season with a strong 21-0 victory over Cleveland Charter on August 22, the Wolverines are riding high and eager to maintain their winning streak.
Rankings & Records for Harvard-Westlake (25-26 Season)
- National Rank: 6,640
- California Rank: 443
- Section Rank: 193
- Overall Record: 1-0
- Home Record: 1-0
- Away Record: 0-0
The Wolverines’ offense demonstrated efficiency in their opening game, posting 21 points while keeping a clean sheet defensively. As they host Palisades, Harvard-Westlake will look to capitalize on home-field advantage and continue their strong start.
Head-to-Head and Historical Context
Interestingly, Palisades and Harvard-Westlake have never met in varsity football, making this matchup a first-of-its-kind encounter. This adds an extra layer of intrigue for fans and scouts alike, as both teams will be working from fresh strategies and unknown tendencies.
Record Breakdown:
| Team | Overall | League | Non-League | Home | Away | Playoff | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palisades | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Harvard-Westlake | 1-0 | 0-0 | 1-0 | 1-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1-0 | 0-0 |
The first meeting between these two squads is not just another game—it’s a chance for Palisades to prove themselves against a team already off to a fast start and for Harvard-Westlake to showcase consistency and depth in their program.
Key Players to Watch
Palisades Dolphins
While the Dolphins are starting fresh, a few athletes are expected to make a significant impact:
- Quarterback Leadership: Palisades will rely on their quarterback to orchestrate the offense and connect with their receivers in high-pressure situations.
- Defensive Anchors: The defensive line will be crucial in containing Harvard-Westlake’s attack, aiming to disrupt the Wolverines’ rhythm early in the game.
- Skill Position Players: Look for the running backs and wide receivers to be the breakout stars as the Dolphins attempt to establish offensive momentum.
Harvard-Westlake Wolverines
The Wolverines already have a formula for success, and several players are poised to carry the team forward:
- Offensive Prowess: With a clean 21-point outing in their opener, Harvard-Westlake’s offensive squad has proven capable of executing under pressure.
- Defensive Strength: Shutting out Cleveland Charter highlights their defensive discipline, making the Wolverines formidable at home.
- Leadership: Upperclassmen on both sides of the ball provide strategic leadership and stability, which could prove decisive in close situations.
Game Analysis and Matchup Insights
This non-conference matchup brings together two teams with different starting points but equal determination. Harvard-Westlake’s early-season confidence will be tested by Palisades, who are motivated to start their campaign with a statement victory.
Offensive Matchup:
- Harvard-Westlake’s offense has shown precision, while Palisades’ attack remains unproven. Expect the Wolverines to use their opening-game success to dictate tempo.
- Palisades will need creative play-calling and execution to overcome the defensive strength of their opponents.
Defensive Matchup:
- The Wolverines’ defense is a known quantity, with a shutout performance in Week 1.
- Palisades’ defense must remain disciplined and opportunistic, aiming to create turnovers and capitalize on Harvard-Westlake’s possessions.
Special Teams:
- Field position could play a pivotal role in this early-season game. Both teams will need to execute punts, kickoffs, and returns efficiently.
- A special teams play could swing momentum and impact the outcome of the game, especially in a tightly contested matchup.
Tickets and Viewing Options
Fans have multiple ways to follow the Palisades vs Harvard-Westlake game:
- In-Stadium Attendance: Tickets are available digitally through GoFan. Arriving early is recommended, as this game is expected to draw a competitive crowd.
- Live Streaming: The matchup will be broadcast on the NFHS Network, offering a high-quality live stream for remote viewers.
Scoretracking and Real-Time Updates
For fans who want up-to-the-minute updates, scoretracking options are available for both teams. Harvard-Westlake’s Jack Turetzky serves as the team reporter, providing live commentary and insights. Although Palisades does not currently offer video coverage, fans can follow live updates and stats throughout the game.
Scoretracker Matchup Info:
- Date & Time: Thursday, August 28, 2025, 7:00 PM
- Location: Harvard-Westlake High School, Studio City, CA
- Live Stream: NFHS Network
- Digital Tickets: GoFan
Season Implications
While this is only Week 2 of the California high school football season, early victories can set the tone for a team’s campaign. For Harvard-Westlake, a win would reinforce their early dominance and build confidence heading into league play. For Palisades, a strong showing—even in a loss—can provide momentum and valuable experience for the young squad.
Both programs are also vying for recognition at the state and sectional level:
- Harvard-Westlake is ranked 443 in California, with a section rank of 193.
- Palisades holds a CA rank of 327 and a section rank of 6.
The results of this matchup could influence team morale, player development, and overall program reputation in the coming weeks.
Why This Game Matters
The Palisades vs Harvard-Westlake matchup is more than a non-league contest; it’s a litmus test for early-season readiness. Fans, scouts, and analysts alike will be watching closely for:
- How Palisades adapts to a team with proven success.
- Whether Harvard-Westlake can maintain defensive discipline and offensive execution.
- Emerging players who could make a name for themselves in California high school football.
Additionally, this matchup adds to the rich tapestry of California high school football rivalries, even if it’s the first meeting between these two schools. The competitive spirit, community support, and high level of play exemplify why fans across the state tune in week after week.
Where to Follow More California High School Football Events
For comprehensive coverage of all California high school football events, including live updates, scores, and in-depth analysis, visit California High School Football on HS Football Insider.
Final Thoughts
Tonight’s game between Palisades Dolphins and Harvard-Westlake Wolverines promises excitement, skill, and a glimpse of early-season form for both teams. Harvard-Westlake enters as the favorite with a strong opener under their belt, while Palisades looks to make a statement and challenge the Wolverines on their home turf.
Fans should expect a high-energy contest with strategic play-calling, impactful defensive stands, and potential breakout performances. Whether watching in person or via live stream, this is a California high school football event that should not be missed.
Don’t forget: Get your tickets here, and tune in live on NFHS Network to catch every moment of the action.
