The South El Monte Eagles (0-1) are set to host the Saddleback Roadrunners (1-0) in a highly anticipated non-conference matchup tonight at 7 p.m. The game, played at South El Monte High School, promises to deliver high-energy football as both California high school teams look to assert themselves early in the season.
Saddleback vs South El Monte Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Saddleback vs South El Monte
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Fans can secure their digital tickets via GoFan and follow all the action live on NFHS Network, ensuring no one misses the opening kickoff. For updates and coverage of all California high school football events, visit HS Football Insider California coverage.
Season Openers Set the Tone
Saddleback enters tonight’s matchup riding a 26-7 victory in their season opener. The Roadrunners, hailing from Santa Ana, have already demonstrated a balanced attack on both sides of the ball. Their first game highlighted a potent offense and a stingy defense, giving them a solid 1.000 win percentage early in the season.
In contrast, the Eagles, based in South El Monte, are looking to bounce back after a narrow 21-20 loss in their opening game. South El Monte’s close margin of defeat signals resilience but also underscores the areas they must tighten defensively and capitalize on offensively.
Both teams have set the stage for a competitive showdown tonight, with high stakes for confidence and momentum heading into the early weeks of the 2025 season.
Team Overview and Records
Saddleback Roadrunners (Santa Ana, CA)
- Overall Record: 1-0
- Home/Away Record: 1-0 / 0-0
- Points For/Against: 26 / 7
- National/California/Section Rank: 13,212 / 949 / 338
- Section Division: 11
Saddleback has been efficient on offense, averaging 26 points per game in the first week, with a consistent scoring distribution across all quarters. Their defense has been equally impressive, limiting their opponents to just seven points.
South El Monte Eagles (South El Monte, CA)
- Overall Record: 0-1
- Home/Away Record: 0-0 / 0-1
- Points For/Against: 20 / 21
- National/California/Section Rank: 12,240 / 863 / 313
- Section Division: 15
Despite the early-season loss, the Eagles demonstrated strong competitiveness, with promising offensive moments and key plays that could turn the tide in tonight’s matchup.
Offensive and Defensive Comparisons
Scoring Breakdown
| Quarter | Saddleback | South El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 6 | 7 |
| Q2 | 7 | 7 |
| Q3 | 6 | 0 |
| Q4 | 7 | 6 |
| Final | 26 | 20 |
Saddleback’s scoring spread indicates a team capable of maintaining offensive pressure through every quarter. South El Monte, meanwhile, scored early but struggled to put up points in the third quarter—a trend they’ll aim to correct tonight.
Team Statistics
| Category | Saddleback | South El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 74 | 118 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 149 | – |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 152 | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | 223 | 118 |
| Tackles Per Game | 62 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 6 | – |
Saddleback shows balance with both ground and aerial attacks, while South El Monte relies heavily on their rushing game. Defensive statistics indicate Saddleback’s aggressiveness upfront, an area the Eagles must prepare for tonight.
Key Players to Watch
Saddleback Roadrunners:
- Fabian Bravo (#6) – 48 rushing yards per game. Bravo’s explosiveness in the backfield gives the Roadrunners versatility and big-play potential.
- Andre Scott (#4) – Quarterback with 149 passing yards per game and 160 total yards per game. Scott’s ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground will test the Eagles’ secondary.
- Adam Guadarrama (#13) – Leading receiver with 57 yards per game, providing a reliable target for Scott.
South El Monte Eagles:
- Troy Valencia (#6) – 77 rushing yards per game, showcasing consistency despite the team’s early loss. Valencia’s agility and vision in the backfield will be key in keeping Saddleback’s defense honest.
Both teams feature standout performers capable of shifting momentum. The battle in the trenches and execution on big plays could define tonight’s result.
Tactical Matchup
Saddleback’s offense relies on a balanced attack, using Andre Scott’s passing to stretch defenses while Fabian Bravo and the running game keep opposing defenders guessing. Their defensive front has demonstrated strong tackling efficiency, with six sacks per game so far, which may challenge South El Monte’s offensive line.
South El Monte must capitalize on its home-field advantage. With 118 rushing yards per game, the Eagles will likely focus on controlling the clock and minimizing turnovers. Their offensive strategy will hinge on consistency in the run game and key adjustments to counter Saddleback’s passing threat.
Scoretracker and Game Access
For fans unable to attend, Saddleback @ South El Monte can be followed live on NFHS Network, with score updates available via Scoretracker. Local reporters Samuel Buenaluz (Roadrunners) and Anthony Carrasco (Eagles) provide detailed play-by-play updates, offering an insider perspective on key moments.
Digital tickets are available for purchase through GoFan, ensuring fans can secure their spot without long lines or delays.
Head-to-Head and Historical Notes
This matchup marks the first time Saddleback and South El Monte face each other this season. While records against common opponents differ, tonight offers both programs a chance to establish dominance in a non-conference setting.
| Record Breakdown | Saddleback | South El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 1-0 | 0-1 |
| League | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Non-League | 1-0 | 0-1 |
| Home | 1-0 | 0-0 |
| Away | 0-0 | 0-1 |
| Playoff | 0-0 | 1-0 |
Both teams also aim to make early statements in California high school football rankings, with Saddleback currently ranked slightly higher nationally and within the state.
Fan Experience and Coverage
Tonight’s game is not only a test for the teams but also a showcase of high school football energy in Southern California. Fans can expect dynamic plays, strong defensive stands, and a competitive environment. Digital ticketing ensures ease of access, while NFHS Network live streaming brings the game to a broader audience, including those following the California high school football scene.
Social media coverage, video highlights, and expert commentary from Samuel Buenaluz and Anthony Carrasco provide real-time insights, making it easy for fans to stay engaged throughout the evening.
Final Thoughts
The Saddleback vs South El Monte non-conference clash promises a competitive and entertaining matchup. Saddleback enters as the early favorite with a 1-0 record and a balanced offensive attack. However, South El Monte has the home advantage, a strong rushing game, and key players like Troy Valencia ready to make an impact.
Tonight’s game could set the tone for both programs’ early-season momentum. Fans should expect fast-paced action, strategic adjustments, and key individual performances that may influence each team’s trajectory in the coming weeks.
For continuous updates, game highlights, and full coverage of California high school football, check out HS Football Insider.
