High School Football Fans Gear Up for Exciting 2025 Nonleague Matchups

West Linn gets a big win on the road at Lakeridge

Image: KGW News | YouTube

While there’s still over four months to go until the kickoff of the 2025 high school football season in Oregon, much of the groundwork for next year is taking shape right now.

Several schools are wrapping up their schedules, with Classes 6A and 5A completing a significant portion of their plans during their annual meeting. An additional gathering is set for the end of May to finalize any updates.

From the schedules available so far, here are some exciting nonleague matchups lined up for 2025.

Adrian vs. Crosspoint Christian, Sept. 6

The reigning 1A eight-man champions, the Antelopes, will take on the Warriors, who made it to the semifinals, in the closing game of the annual Dufur 8-Man Classic.

Camas at West Linn, Sept. 26

The Lions will round out their nonleague schedule at home against last season’s Washington 4A runner-up, hailing from across the Glenn Jackson Bridge.

Cascade at Tillamook, Sept. 19

On the North Coast, two traditional 4A heavyweights will clash, with the Cheesemakers seeking to halt Cougars running back Bryce Kuenzi and make amends for last season’s 50-14 loss.

Cascade Christian at Vale, Aug. 29

The Vikings will finally host the Challengers after facing them twice over the last two years, suffering defeat in the 3A semifinals in 2023 and securing victory in the 2024 season opener as they advanced to the state final.

Central Catholic at Central Catholic (Modesto, Calif.), Sept. 5

The Rams will travel to the San Joaquin Valley to take on their California counterparts, who played for the Division 2-AA state championship in 2021 and recently had a string of five Valley Oak League titles come to an end.

Central Catholic at Jesuit, Sept. 19

After a one-year hiatus, the Holy War returns as the Rams face the Crusaders at Cronin Field, aiming to break a four-game series losing streak while still holding a lead of 23-19-1 over their rivals.

Central Catholic at Lake Oswego, Sept. 12

When the Rams return from California, they will have a week to gear up for a rematch against the Lakers, following last year’s 6A Open semifinal, with the Lakers being led by Oregon State commit LaMarcus Bell and quarterback Hudson Kurland.

Clackamas at Tualatin, Aug. 29

Two teams that faced disappointing exits in the initial round of the 6A Open playoffs last season will go head-to-head, as the Timberwolves introduce a new quarterback following the graduation of BYU signee Nolan Keeney.

Crescent Valley at Corvallis, Sept. 12

These local rivals have competed in the same league since the Raiders opened their doors in 1971, but their move down to 4A this year means they will square off in nonleague play before parting ways.

Dallas at Wells, Sept. 12

Dragons coach Andy Jackson consistently seeks quality 6A opponents for his 5A program, making this matchup in Southwest Portland against the two-time defending PIL champion Guardians a notable challenge.

Grants Pass at Silverton, Oct. 10

The Cavemen emerged as a surprising contender last season, increasing their win total by four behind sophomore quarterback Jordan Rossetta and reaching the 6A quarterfinals. Their face-off with the 5A semifinalists Foxes promises to be an intriguing encounter in the mid-Willamette Valley.

Henley at Cascade Christian, Sept. 26

Their Week 4 tussle last season showcased six lead changes, with Joseph Janney connecting with Trapper Cundall on a 5-yard touchdown pass to secure a 37-36 victory.

Kamehameha at West Linn, Aug. 29

The Warriors, who have claimed five state championships in Hawaii—the most recent being in 2009—are coming off a 5-4 season where they competed for the ILH Open Division title.

Lakeridge at Nelson, Aug. 29

The Pacers return with University of Washington commit Ansu Sanoe, Oregon State commit Noah Tishendorf, and a wealth of talent in their quest to make a breakthrough in the Three Rivers League; meanwhile, the Hawks will introduce a new quarterback after the graduation of four-year starter Avirey Durhdahl.

Lake Oswego at South Medford, Aug. 29

Last year’s finalists in 6A Open and 6A state playoffs will meet at Spiegelberg Stadium.

Lebanon at Mountain View, Sept. 5

These teams faced each other twice last season, with the Cougars edging out a close 15-14 win at Lebanon in Week 1 before powering to a 41-14 triumph in the 5A quarterfinals.

Marist Catholic at Churchill, Aug. 29

Although the Lancers fell to the ultimate 4A state champions by a narrow margin of 33-30 in last year’s opener, their competitive display established the Midwestern League titleholders as serious contenders for 5A. The success of the Spartans in replacing 4A offensive player of the year Nick Hudson at quarterback could greatly influence the course of their title defense.

Marist Catholic at Henley, Sept. 12

These squads have clashed in the last two 4A state championships, with the Hornets claiming the title in 2023 before the Spartans settled the score with a 30-6 victory in November.

Marist Catholic at Tillamook, Sept. 5

In the middle of their initial three-game road stretch, the Spartans’ Cheesemakers quarterback Kevin Hurliman will have a chance to showcase his growth since he took the reins midway through a 42-13 loss at Marist Catholic last year.

Mountainside at Lakeridge, Sept. 5

Both teams will feature formidable rosters, as the Mavericks aim to build on their inaugural Metro League title and advancing to the 6A Open quarterfinals.

Mountain View at Mazama, Sept. 12

The Cougars have made it to the 5A finals for the last two years running, and with running back Angel Valenzuela returning for his senior season, they are poised to contend for a third straight appearance.

Oakland at St. Paul, Aug. 29

In this rematch of the 2A final, quarterback Ryan Fullerton and the Oakers will aim to avenge their 28-20 loss, while the Buckaroos will look to rebuild after losing standout all-state players Grady Wolf and Clay Smith to graduation.

Pendleton at Scappoose, Aug. 29

The 4A teams are facing the challenge of new starters under center, following the graduation of all-state quarterbacks Colson Primus for the Buckaroos and Max Nowlin for Scappoose.

Sheldon at Lake Oswego, Sept. 5

The Irish will need to bounce back after graduating two-way all-state running back/linebacker Mana Tuioti along with numerous seniors. Their early matchup against the 6A Open runner-up Lakers should yield essential insights.

Sherwood at Tualatin, Sept. 19

Both squads must fill the shoes left by Division I talent — the Bowmen reached the 6A Open quarterfinals with Eastern Washington-bound running back/linebacker Wilson Medina, while the Timberwolves boasted BYU quarterback commit Nolan Keeney and New Mexico signee Zhaiel Smith.

Silverton at Coeur d’Alene, Aug. 29

Last season, both teams advanced to the semifinals of their respective playoff brackets — the Foxes lost to the eventual 5A champion, Wilsonville, and Coeur d’Alene was eliminated in the Idaho 6A semifinals.

Sprague at Summit, Aug. 29

The Olympians started strong last season, going 8-0 and reaching the 6A Open quarterfinals, while the Storm powered through a slow start led by first-year starting quarterback Andrew Guthrie to make it to the 5A quarterfinals.

Summit at Wilsonville, Sept. 12

Andrew Guthrie is solidifying his role as the quarterback of both the present and future for the Storm. Meanwhile, the Wildcats will spend their summer determining who will take over for SBLive Oregon offensive player of the year Mark Wiepert at the position.

Thurston at Silverton, Sept. 5

The Colts (Noah Blair) and Foxes (Sawyer Teeney) will be on the lookout for new quarterbacks this summer. Each team will enter this matchup with a Week 0 outing already completed, prompting questions about the adjustments they’ll make for this face-off.

Tualatin at Jesuit, Sept. 5

The Crusaders got a glimpse of their future at quarterback when junior Harper Sage stepped up to lead them to victory in the game where Ken Potter became the state’s winningest coach. Will Sage take charge in their season opener versus the Timberwolves?

Wells at Clackamas, Sept. 5

Looking to test their mettle against formidable opponents before entering PIL play, the Guardians will find a suitable challenge in a road game against a fellow 6A Open qualifier.

West Albany at Canby, Aug. 29

The Cougars, eager to rebound from an injury-plagued season that kept them out of the playoffs, will kick off their season against the 5A quarterfinalist Bulldogs.

West Linn at Sherwood, Sept. 12

The Lions are searching for the right player to fill the role of all-state quarterback Baird Gilroy. After starting their season against Kamehameha, they will have a fortnight to develop whoever steps in to get ready for a rematch against the Bowmen, who they faced in the 6A Open quarterfinal.

West Linn at Sumner, Sept. 19

Last year’s Oregon 6A Open state champion faces off against the reigning Washington 4A state champion in a rematch of one of last year’s most exciting games in the Northwest. What else needs to be said?

Wilsonville at North Medford, Oct. 3

The current 5A champions are headed down I-5 to face a Black Tornado squad that clinched the 6A state title (soon to be renamed the Columbia Cup) and brings back quarterback Traeger Healy.

  1. Athletic Highlights

    Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.

    The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.

    “Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”

    Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.

    “I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”

    This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.

    “I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”

    Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.

    “I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.

    The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.

    The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.

    Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.

    The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.

    The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.

    The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.

    The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.

    For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

    The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.

    For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

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  2. Athletic Highlights

    Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.

    Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.

    “you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”

    A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.

    Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.

    Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.

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  3. Athletic Highlights

    Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.

    Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.

    Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29

    1. Bay City Western (12-1)

    Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.

    2. De La Salle (12-2)

    The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.

    3. Northville (14-1)

    The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.

    4. Dakota (11-4)

    After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.

    5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)

    The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.

    6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)

    With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.

    7. Saline (15-1)

    The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.

    8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)

    OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.

    9. Romeo (16-2)

    The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.

    10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)

    Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.

    11. Hudsonville (12-2)

    The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.

    12. Jenison (8-2)

    The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.

    13. New Boston Huron (16-0)

    The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.

    14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)

    The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.

    15. West Bloomfield (8-3)

    The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.

    16. Dexter (13-6)

    The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.

    17. Woodhaven (15-5)

    The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.

    18. Rochester Adams (15-4)

    Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.

    19. Trenton (13-3)

    The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.

    20. Midland (6-2)

    Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.

    21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)

    Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.

    22. Detroit Western (13-5)

    After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.

    23. Grand Ledge (13-5)

    The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.

    24. Mattawan (8-2-3)

    Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.

    25. Allen Park (8-5)

    The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.

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