This past weekend marked a significant moment in high school football history. For the first time since November 2015, a team other than St. John Bosco has managed to defeat the powerhouse Mater Dei Monarchs. On the evening of September 8, 2025, the Centennial Huskies from Corona, California, pulled off a stunning upset that had fans buzzing and experts reevaluating the landscape of high school football.
The last team to achieve this monumental feat was also the Centennial Huskies, making this encounter a remarkable full-circle moment. This game, as reported by USA TODAY Sports, ended with a nail-biting score of 43-36, putting an unexpected end to Mater Dei’s impressive 21-game winning streak and showcasing why high school football is so thrilling.
The match was anything but predictable. With an incredible 28-point comeback, a series of turnovers, and a controversial play that served as the game’s climax, the Centennial Huskies demonstrated not only talent but resilience and strategic depth. Such high-stakes games encapsulate the essence of high school football, where victories can pivot with a single play and momentum can shift almost instantaneously.
Mater Dei’s Fall from Glory
Mater Dei, usually a dominant force in California high school football, entered the game with a record of 2-1, expecting to defend their perennial title. However, the team from Santa Ana couldn’t maintain their poise against the relentless surge of the Huskies. This loss serves as a critical wake-up call; it highlighted vulnerabilities just as much as it illuminated the prowess of their opponents.
Centennial’s Triumph
With this win, the Centennial Huskies advance their record to 3-1, firmly establishing themselves as a team to watch not just in California but nationally. Their aggressive offensive strategy and ability to capitalize on Mater Dei’s mistakes were pivotal in their victory. The excitement generated from coming back from a 28-point deficit is a story many high school players dream of. Players and coaches alike will surely analyze the game tape for lessons learned, making this victory even more meaningful as they prepare for the games ahead.
The Impact on Rankings
Following this shocking upset, the next USA TODAY Sports Super 25 rankings are highly anticipated. As teams shift positions based on recent performances, every match is scrutinized, and players are poised to make their mark. This week’s results will lead to noteworthy alterations within the rankings, particularly for Mater Dei and Centennial. Everyone will be watching to see how these teams respond to this pivotal moment in the season.
Other Notable Matches
Mater Dei’s defeat, while the headline, wasn’t the only thrilling outcome from Week 4. Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas maintained their perfect record, defeating East St. Louis 35-10 as they continue their march towards potential national recognition. Meanwhile, St. John Bosco kept pace by soundly defeating Junipero Serra 42-0, reflecting their status as one of the top contenders this season.
Other teams like Grayson (Georgia) and Buford (Georgia) continued their undefeated runs, showcasing the depth of talent spread across the nation. These performances highlight how competitive high school football has become, with programs from different states vying for national accolades.
Looking Ahead
The next steps for both Mater Dei and Centennial involve learning from this experience and adjusting strategies moving forward. Expect training sessions this week to be intense, as both teams will strive to improve and translate lessons learned on the field. High school football is often about adaptability, and these teams will be looking to harness that dynamic energy as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
As Week 5 approaches, fans can expect even more shocking outcomes and defining moments. The season is far from over, and the quest for supremacy in high school football continues. Each game serves not only as a contest of skill but as a narrative filled with passion, grit, and the spirit of competition that defines the game.