Nevada

Game preview: Sequoia vs Reno Football Sep. 5, 2025

Game preview: Sequoia vs Reno Football Sep. 5, 2025

High school football fans are set for an exciting non-conference matchup this Friday, September 5, 2025, as the Sequoia High School Tigers from Redwood City, CA, travel to face the Reno High School Huskies in Reno, NV. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at Reno High School, promising an early-season showdown between two undefeated squads.

Matchup: Sequoia vs Reno
Date: Friday., Sep. 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here Now

For fans following high school football nationwide, visit Massachusetts High School Football events for broad coverage, or find your state’s full schedule via Find Your School.


Team Overview and Early Season Records

Sequoia Tigers (1-0, Non-League)

  • National Rank: 6,843
  • California Section Rank: 458/31
  • Points For / Against: 10 / 7
  • Home Record: 0-0
  • Away Record: 1-0

Sequoia enters the contest undefeated after a close 10-7 victory in their season opener. The Tigers’ early success has been built on a solid rushing attack led by Nolan Fausto, complemented by a defense that allowed only 7 points. While the Tigers have faced a lighter schedule so far, this matchup represents their first true road test against a strong Nevada opponent.

Reno Huskies (2-0, Non-League)

  • National Rank: 2,934
  • Nevada Rank: 12/1
  • Points For / Against: 60 / 39
  • Home Record: 1-0
  • Away Record: 1-0

Reno boasts an unbeaten record as well, averaging 30 points per game while demonstrating offensive balance and defensive toughness. With both a productive rushing and passing game, Reno enters the contest confident at home and prepared to challenge visiting teams.


Scoring Trends

Analyzing scoring averages gives insight into each team’s tendencies:

Sequoia Tigers

  • Q1: 0
  • Q2: 0
  • Q3: 7.0
  • Q4: 3.0
  • Average: 10 points per game

Sequoia’s offense has a tendency to start slow but finish strong, scoring the bulk of their points in the second half. Efficiency in the early quarters will be key against Reno’s defense.

Reno Huskies

  • Q1: 3.0
  • Q2: 6.0
  • Q3: 11.0
  • Q4: 10.0
  • Average: 30 points per game

Reno has shown consistency across all quarters, particularly in the second half where their offense tends to pull away from opponents. Centennial’s challenge will be keeping pace with Reno’s sustained scoring ability.


Team Statistical Comparison

Statistic Sequoia Reno
Rushing Yards/Game 164.0 258.5
Passing Yards/Game 54.0 140.5
Total Yards/Game 218.0 399.0
Tackles/Game 74.0 74.0
Sacks/Game 3.0 2.0
Points/Game 10.0 12.0

Reno holds the advantage in total offense, particularly in the rushing game, while Sequoia relies on a strong defensive presence and opportunistic plays to keep games close. Both teams are evenly matched in tackles, indicating a competitive battle in the trenches.


Key Players

Sequoia Tigers

  • #14 Nolan Fausto: Lead rusher and primary offensive weapon, averaging 118 yards per game and scoring 6 points per game.
  • #5 Mays Pagnotta: Quarterback contributing 54 passing yards per game, orchestrating the Tiger offense efficiently.
  • #17 Garrett Johnson: Top receiver with 42 yards per game, key for third-down conversions and big plays.
  • #9 Mario Fausto: Defensive standout with 16 tackles per game, anchoring the Tiger defense.
  • #28 Soane Sili: Key pass rusher averaging 1 sack per game, critical for pressuring Reno’s quarterback.

Reno Huskies

  • #24 Jackson Mathews: Leading rusher with 153.5 yards per game and 12 points per game, central to Reno’s ground attack.
  • #7 Braylon Wilson: Quarterback producing 262 passing yards per game and 299 total yards per game, providing offensive versatility.
  • #13 Greysen Hutzler: Leading receiver with 44 yards per game, a consistent playmaker.
  • #1 Simon Gollmer-Paffrath: Defensive anchor averaging 12 tackles per game, pivotal for stopping Sequoia’s rush.
  • #28 Mac Vandengrift: Sack leader at 1.0 per game, applying consistent pressure to opposing quarterbacks.

Early Season Analysis and Expectations

Both teams arrive undefeated, but their paths to this game have been different:

  • Sequoia has relied heavily on a disciplined defense and a strong rushing attack to control the clock. Their slim victory margins show they thrive in tight, well-executed games.
  • Reno has displayed more offensive explosiveness and balance, combining a powerful running game with an efficient aerial attack. Their defense, though tested, has proven capable of producing stops and maintaining leads.

The matchup is not just about raw numbers but also about tempo, execution, and adaptability. Reno’s ability to sustain drives and convert in key situations may test Sequoia’s defensive schemes. Conversely, Sequoia’s ability to capitalize on turnovers and control possession could force Reno into mistakes.


Keys to Victory

Sequoia Tigers

  1. Strong Start: Avoid falling behind early to prevent Reno from dictating tempo.
  2. Protect the Ball: Limit turnovers, especially against Reno’s aggressive pass rush.
  3. Exploit Rushing Opportunities: Utilize Nolan Fausto effectively to sustain drives and wear down Reno’s defense.

Reno Huskies

  1. Balanced Attack: Keep Sequoia guessing with both running and passing threats.
  2. Early Pressure: Disrupt Sequoia’s rhythm with aggressive defensive play.
  3. Maintain Possession: Control the clock to prevent Sequoia from mounting a late-game comeback.

Historical Context

This marks the first meeting between Sequoia and Reno this season. Both teams are non-league contenders, using this early-season matchup to gauge strengths and identify areas for improvement before entering league play.

Sequoia’s narrow victories and defensive focus contrast with Reno’s higher-scoring style, setting the stage for an intriguing clash of philosophies. The game also highlights the growing competitiveness of California and Nevada high school football programs.


Conclusion

The Sequoia vs Reno contest promises to be a compelling early-season matchup. Reno’s offensive versatility and balanced attack give them a statistical edge, while Sequoia’s defensive discipline and opportunistic style could make them a dangerous underdog.

Fans should expect a competitive game that tests both squads’ depth, resilience, and execution under pressure. Whether you’re watching from Nevada or beyond, this matchup showcases the intensity and talent present in high school football this fall.

For live scoring updates, season schedules, and comprehensive coverage of high school football across the country, visit Massachusetts High School Football events or check your state’s full listing at Find Your School.

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