The excitement is building in California high school football as the Hanford Bullpups host the Sanger Apaches in a non-conference showdown on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Hanford High School. Both teams come into this game looking to solidify their early-season momentum, with Sanger holding a 1-0 record after a dominant opener, while Hanford is eager to bounce back from a narrow loss in their season debut. Fans can grab digital tickets for Sanger @ Hanford on GoFan or catch the live action via the NFHS Network live stream.
Sanger vs Hanford Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Sanger vs Hanford
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as two highly ranked California squads square off in a battle of offense, defense, and school pride. Here’s an in-depth preview of the Sanger vs Hanford game, including team stats, player highlights, and what to expect when these two programs clash on the gridiron.
Team Overview
Sanger Apaches
The Sanger Apaches enter the contest with a perfect 1-0 record, following a commanding 36-13 victory over Dinuba in their season opener. Ranked 103rd in California and 1,234th nationally, Sanger has been off to a fast start, demonstrating balanced offensive production and strong defensive discipline.
The Apaches scored 7 points in the first quarter, exploded for 22 in the second, and closed the game with a final 7 in the fourth, showing their ability to maintain scoring momentum throughout the contest. The team averaged 36 points per game and allowed just 13, signaling a stout defense that can disrupt opposing offenses.
Sanger’s offense has been led by Kayden McGrew (#12), who contributes 119 rushing yards per game and a total of 146 yards per game, combining ground and passing yardage. Cenzo Calandra (#3) handles the quarterback duties, averaging 58 passing yards per game, while Angel Dominguez (#11) leads the receiving corps with 31 yards per game.
The Apaches’ rushing attack has been a key weapon, averaging 260 yards per game on the ground, complementing their balanced passing game of 58 yards per contest. While they have only 1 sack per game defensively, the Apaches compensate with disciplined tackling, averaging 34 tackles per game.
Upcoming games for Sanger include a match against Lemoore on September 12, giving fans another chance to see the Apaches in action as they continue their push for a strong season.
Hanford Bullpups
Hanford comes into this contest looking for redemption after a close 29-28 loss in their season opener. The Bullpups are ranked 141st in California and 1,702nd nationally, and their season started with a strong offensive showing, putting up 28 points despite the narrow defeat.
The Bullpups’ scoring pattern in their first game—0 in the first quarter, 7 in the second, 12 in the third, and 2 in the fourth—demonstrates a team that can adjust and rally but struggles with early-game execution. Defensive lapses allowed 29 points, highlighting areas where the team will need to tighten coverage against a potent Apache offense.
Hanford’s attack is more pass-heavy than Sanger, averaging 197 passing yards per game, with Jerren Mao (#3) contributing 197 yards per game through the air and 200 total yards per game. Ryan Smith (#6) is a workhorse on the ground, averaging 86 rushing yards per game, while Taveon Patterson (#1) leads the receiving effort with 78 yards per contest.
On the defensive side, the Bullpups are averaging 88 tackles per game and 2 sacks, showing aggressiveness upfront but leaving gaps that opponents can exploit. Hanford will need to balance their offense and tighten defensive coverage to compete with Sanger’s high-powered rushing attack.
The Bullpups’ upcoming schedule includes critical matchups against Dinuba on October 3 and Lemoore on October 31, making the Sanger game an important momentum builder for the remainder of the season.
Team Comparison
When comparing the two teams, several key differences emerge that will influence the outcome of the Sanger vs Hanford matchup:
| Stat Category | Sanger | Hanford |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 260 | 143 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 58 | 197 |
| Receiving Yards/Game | 58 | 189 |
| Total Yards/Game | 318 | 340 |
| Tackles/Game | 34 | 88 |
| Sacks/Game | 1 | 2 |
Sanger excels on the ground, while Hanford’s passing game has been significantly more productive. Defensively, Hanford has a higher tackle count, which could give them an edge in breaking up Apache drives. This contrast in play style sets up a classic clash of strengths: Sanger’s balanced rushing and passing attack versus Hanford’s aggressive, pass-oriented approach.
Key Players to Watch
Sanger Apaches
- Kayden McGrew (#12): The Apache running back is a dual-threat weapon, leading the team in rushing and total yards. His ability to break tackles and gain tough yards will be vital against a physical Hanford defense.
- Cenzo Calandra (#3): Quarterback Calandra’s decision-making and accuracy in the short passing game will be essential to maintaining offensive rhythm.
- Angel Dominguez (#11): A reliable receiving target who can create separation and contribute to key first downs, particularly on critical third-down plays.
Hanford Bullpups
- Jerren Mao (#3): Quarterback Mao is the engine of Hanford’s offense, combining passing efficiency with rushing capability to keep defenses off balance.
- Ryan Smith (#6): Smith’s power running will be key in controlling time of possession and setting up play-action passes.
- Taveon Patterson (#1): Patterson’s speed and hands make him a dangerous deep-threat target capable of turning broken plays into big gains.
Strategy and Game Outlook
The Sanger vs Hanford game is likely to hinge on a few pivotal matchups:
- Running Game vs. Pass Rush: Sanger’s rushing attack, led by McGrew, will test Hanford’s defensive front. Hanford’s ability to generate pressure and contain the run could force Sanger into passing situations.
- Secondary Play: Hanford’s pass-heavy offense will challenge Sanger’s defensive backs. If the Apaches can limit big plays downfield, they can control the tempo and keep the game manageable.
- Turnovers: Both teams will need to protect the football. A single interception or fumble could swing momentum in this closely matched non-conference battle.
- Special Teams: Early-season games often hinge on field position and special teams execution. Kick returns, punts, and field goals may prove decisive in a tight contest.
Fans should expect a high-energy game with momentum swings and big plays on both sides. Sanger may look to dominate early with a ground-and-pound approach, while Hanford could attempt to stay close through a combination of passing and explosive plays.
Historical Context and Rivalry
While the Sanger vs Hanford matchup is non-conference, the game carries significant bragging rights. Both programs have a proud football tradition in California, and fans of both schools are expected to pack the stands. Sanger is off to a strong start historically, while Hanford is hungry to recover after an opening-week setback. This clash could serve as a barometer for each team’s potential in their respective sections and divisions.
How to Watch or Attend
Tickets for the game are available online. Fans can purchase digital tickets for Sanger @ Hanford via GoFan to secure their spot in the stands. For those unable to attend in person, the matchup will be broadcast live on the NFHS Network, providing full coverage of the action, commentary, and instant highlights.
Predicted Outcome
Analyzing both teams’ stats, strengths, and early-season form, the game is poised to be competitive. Sanger’s rushing efficiency and balanced offensive attack give them a slight edge, but Hanford’s high-volume passing attack and aggressive defense can create opportunities for an upset.
Key questions will be:
- Can Hanford contain McGrew and the Apache rushing attack?
- Will Sanger’s secondary limit deep connections to Patterson and Mao?
- Who will control the line of scrimmage in the trenches?
The team that wins these battles—particularly on turnovers and third-down conversions—will likely take home the win in this early-season showdown.
Looking Ahead
Beyond this matchup, both teams have a busy season ahead:
- Sanger will face Lemoore on September 12 and continue their push for sectional dominance.
- Hanford will have critical non-conference games against Dinuba and Lemoore later in the season, giving them a chance to recalibrate after this early loss.
For fans of California high school football, this game is an early highlight of the 2025 season, showcasing talent, strategy, and school spirit.
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