PREVIEWS AND PREDICTIONS: College Football Week 7 Edition

San Diego Mesa @ Saddleback

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – 1:00 PM

Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, CA)

Photographer: Jeremy Westerbeck

PREVIEW:

Week 7 of the 3C2A football season continues in Mission Viejo as the Saddleback Bobcats (5–1) return home to host the San Diego Mesa Olympians (2–4) in a key non-conference matchup between two programs trending in opposite directions.

Saddleback is coming off a complete 24–13 road win over Mt. San Jacinto. The Bobcats showcased balance on both sides of the ball, with quarterbacks Nicky Johnson and Tyler Dudden combining for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns through the air. Johnson finished 14-of-22 for 150 yards and two scores, while Dudden added 96 yards and a touchdown on 5-of-7 passing. Wide receiver Nicholas Gentiella had a breakout performance with 5 catches for 115 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Joseph Walter hauled in 5 receptions for 39 yards and another score. The rushing attack was led by Darrien Campbell (6 carries, 60 yards) and Kavaughn Clark (10 carries, 54 yards), giving Saddleback steady production out of the backfield.

On defense, the Bobcats were relentless up front. Sedwrick Dunklin led the team with 7 tackles, while Jack Knudtson and Iosefa Tapeni each recorded sacks, combining for 2 on the day. Malachi Johnson continued his strong season with multiple tackles for loss, and kicker Manuel Maganda added a 28-yard field goal and went a perfect 3-for-3 on extra points. Special teams also shined behind Jagger Blau (75 return yards) and Roman Hardin (44 return yards).

San Diego Mesa enters the matchup following a 28–14 home loss to El Camino. The Olympians were led by quarterback Reggie Johnson, who showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 130 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 59 yards on 13 carries. Running back Mike Porter added 74 yards and a touchdown on 19 attempts, and wideout Aleonte Logan led all receivers with 4 catches for 80 yards. Defensively, Mesa was anchored by Cooper Mau and Simi-Tafa DeLa Cruz, each recording multiple tackles and consistent pressure at the line of scrimmage.

For Saddleback, the focus will be maintaining offensive rhythm and continuing to protect the football after a clean game last week. Mesa will look to establish balance early and find explosive plays through Johnson and Porter to keep pace.

This afternoon’s matchup features two offenses capable of lighting up the scoreboard, but the Bobcats’ defensive front and depth at quarterback could prove to be the difference at home.

PREDICTIONS:

JP’s Pick: Saddleback 27, San Diego Mesa 20