PREVIEW AND PREDICTION: 3C2A State Finals Edition

San Mateo @ Golden West

Saturday – 12:00 PM | LeBard Stadium (Orange Coast College)

Photographer: Richard Do

PREVIEW:

Championship Saturday arrives in Costa Mesa as Golden West hosts the 3C2A State Final for the first time in program history — and the Rustlers welcome a true dynasty. San Mateo returns to the State Championship for a fourth straight season and enters Saturday looking to go back-to-back after winning the 2023 title.

Golden West earned their spot with a 33–15 victory over Saddleback in the SCFA Championship, showcasing one of their most complete team efforts of the season. Quarterback Kauna‘oa Kamakawiwo‘ole was efficient and explosive, throwing for 272 yards and two touchdowns, while Tanner Schmidt delivered a breakout postseason performance with 166 yards and a score.

The run game set the tone early and often. Aaron Mitchell (84 yards, TD) and Ardwon Morris (63 yards) combined for 147 tough yards, repeatedly extending drives and opening the play-action window for Golden West’s vertical attack. Defensively, the Rustlers came up with timely plays, including an interception by Drew Faulkner, holding the Bobcats’ offense to just 15 points.

San Mateo, meanwhile, punched their ticket with a dominant 38–7 win over Modesto in the NCFC Championship — a familiar formula built on depth, discipline, and program continuity. Quarterback Luke Alexander (8–11, 119 yards, TD) guided an efficient offense that rolled through the ground game, where Kai Hamilton, Ali Collier, Dominick Gonzalez, Malakhi DeMoss, and Bruce Uperesa all contributed to a run game that has overwhelmed opponents all postseason.

Defensively, the Bulldogs once again looked like a championship unit: fast, physical, and fundamentally sharp. Their ability to control early downs and eliminate explosive plays has been the backbone of their four-year run of dominance.

Saturday’s matchup is a collision between a rising program and a reigning powerhouse:

• San Mateo returns chasing another championship ring and the chance to solidify their dynasty with back-to-back titles.

• Golden West looks to bring the first football State Championship in school history to Huntington Beach.

The winner will control the line of scrimmage, win situational downs, and capitalize on red-zone opportunities.

JP’S PICK:

Golden West 30, San Mateo 27

Golden West rides its balanced offense, explosive playmakers, and a defense that has been at its best in November. The Rustlers find the late stop they need, deny the Bulldogs’ repeat bid, and capture the first 3C2A title in program history.