The Bakersfield football scene heats up this Thursday, August 28, as the South Spartans travel to face the Independence Falcons in a highly anticipated non-conference matchup. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM at Independence High School, and fans won’t want to miss this early-season showdown. Digital tickets are available through GoFan, and the game will be streamed live on the NFHS Network.

South vs Independence Football Game Info:

What: California High School Football
Who: South vs Independence
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here

Current Form: Teams Looking to Make a Statement

The South Spartans enter the contest with a 0-1 record after a tough opening week, falling 20-0 to Ridgeview. Despite the early setback, South is eager to get back on track and showcase improvements on both sides of the ball. With a young roster blending returning starters and promising newcomers, the Spartans are searching for offensive rhythm and defensive cohesion in this matchup.

Meanwhile, the Independence Falcons come into the game undefeated at 1-0, posting a dominant 47-0 victory over their season opener. Their balanced attack and stout defense have set a high bar early in the season. Independence’s first game saw explosive scoring in every quarter, underlining their offensive versatility and preparedness.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

This will mark one of the early-season non-league encounters for both teams, and historically, Independence holds the edge. Though these two teams have yet to face off in recent years, the Falcons’ strong start gives them momentum heading into the Thursday night clash.

Recent Performance

Independence dominated from the opening kickoff, scoring 20 points in the first quarter and continuing to pressure through all four quarters. The Falcons’ ability to maintain intensity and execute in the red zone has made them a formidable early-season contender. South, on the other hand, struggled to find the end zone in Week 1 but demonstrated glimpses of athletic talent that could change the game if they tighten execution.

Offensive and Defensive Matchups

South Spartans

The Spartans’ offensive statistics from Week 1 show a team still finding its rhythm. Rushing yards per game for South are modest at 145.0, while passing yards average 142.0. Dylan Boronda leads the team in receiving with 50 yards per game, and Rickey Johnson is the team’s top rusher, averaging 60 yards per contest. Defensively, South faces challenges in stopping high-powered offenses, having recorded 49 tackles per game but allowing 20 points in their opener.

Independence Falcons

Independence has demonstrated balanced offensive production, averaging 287 total yards per game through the air and ground. Quarterback Gunter Golla III has emerged as the team’s dual-threat, combining 121 passing yards with 136 total yards per game. The Falcons’ rushing attack complements their aerial game, creating a dynamic offense that has already overwhelmed opponents. Defensively, Independence allowed zero points in their first outing and maintains a strong front seven capable of pressuring opposing quarterbacks and shutting down key running lanes.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Quarterback Play: Golla III vs. South’s secondary. How well South’s defensive backs handle the Falcons’ passing game will be pivotal.
• Rushing Attack: Independence’s 145 rushing yards per game vs. South’s defensive front. Winning the line of scrimmage could dictate the game’s tempo.
• Special Teams: Early momentum in non-conference matchups often comes through field position and turnovers, areas where both teams need sharp execution.

Players to Watch

South Spartans

• Rickey Johnson (#3) – The lead rusher, responsible for energizing the offense and setting up play-action opportunities.
• Dylan Boronda (#11) – The Spartans’ primary receiving threat, capable of stretching the field.

Independence Falcons

• Gunter Golla III (#9) – Quarterback and offensive centerpiece, adept at both passing and rushing for significant yardage.
• Aidan Escobar (#51) – Key offensive lineman, contributing to pancake blocks and overall offensive line stability.

Fan Information

For fans attending in person, Independence High School offers digital tickets via GoFan, ensuring smooth entry and reduced wait times. Those unable to attend can watch the full broadcast through the NFHS Network, providing comprehensive coverage with commentary and live stats.

Team Statistics Overview

While the stats indicate comparable yardage in some categories, Independence’s ability to convert yards into points has been the differentiator early in the season.

Significance of the Matchup

The South vs Independence game holds significance beyond the win-loss column. Both teams are looking to set a tone for the season. South seeks redemption after a disappointing opener, while Independence aims to solidify its reputation as one of Bakersfield’s early-season powerhouses. Non-conference games like this also provide valuable preparation for league play, helping coaches identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for in-season adjustments.

Looking Ahead

Winning a non-conference game can give teams momentum heading into the heart of the season. For South, a victory over a strong Independence team would demonstrate progress and resilience. Independence, on the other hand, can use a strong performance to reinforce confidence and validate offseason preparations. The outcome could impact team morale, fan support, and early rankings within California high school football.

For fans tracking all California high school football events, updates on South, Independence, and other Bakersfield teams can be found at HS Football Insider.

Prediction and Expectations

While predicting outcomes is always risky in high school football, Independence’s early-season dominance suggests they may hold the edge. South’s defense will need to step up significantly, while the Spartans’ offense must find its rhythm quickly to keep the game competitive. Ultimately, the matchup promises high-energy plays, strategic adjustments, and a true test of each team’s depth and talent.