PREVIEWS AND PREDICTIONS: College Football Week 9

Southwestern (6–2) at Saddleback (7–1)

Saturday, November 1 – 1:00 PM | Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, CA)

Photographer: Jeremy Westerbeck

The Saddleback Bobcats (7–1) return home to The Stadium on Saturday afternoon looking to extend their five-game winning streak as they host the Southwestern Jaguars (6–2) in a pivotal National Southern League matchup.

Saddleback continued its dominant stretch last weekend with a 31–10 road win over Palomar, controlling both sides of the ball from the opening drive. Quarterback Tyler Dudden delivered another sharp outing, completing 11 of 18 passes for 136 yards and 3 touchdowns, while backup Nicky Johnson added a 41-yard strike through the air.

The Bobcats’ backfield continues to be one of the most balanced in the 3C2A, powered by Kavaughn Clark (13 carries, 119 yards) and Darrian Campbell (10 carries, 76 yards), combining for nearly 200 yards on the ground. Out wide, Nicholas Gentiella and Joseph Walter each hauled in a touchdown, and Max Krosky added another, while the defense swarmed with Noah Luginbill (10 tackles) and Brandon Ross (7 tackles) leading the charge.

Southwestern enters at 6–2 after a narrow 38–35 loss to El Camino in a back-and-forth battle. Quarterback Ty McCutcheon threw for 147 yards and 3 touchdowns, while running back Caleb Blocker added 80 yards rushing. The Jaguars’ offense is dynamic and balanced, but their defense has allowed 30+ points in three of the past four weeks — something the Bobcats’ high-efficiency offense will look to exploit.

Saddleback’s defense, which has held opponents under 14 points in three of the last four games, will aim to contain the Jaguars’ dual-threat attack and protect home field in what could be a playoff-preview type matchup.

JP’s Pick: Saddleback 34, Southwestern 20