BREAKING: Bishop O’Dowd has just secured the CIF 5-AA NorCal championship in a nail-biting match against Chico, winning 23-20 late Friday night. The victory, achieved on Chico’s home turf, underscores the Dragons’ resilience and determination as they inch closer to a state title.
The clash, held in Chico, California, showcased a fierce battle as O’Dowd, traveling nearly three hours from Oakland, fought hard to maintain their lead. The decisive moment came with less than 90 seconds remaining when O’Dowd’s defense, led by a crucial sack of quarterback John Bernardez, halted Chico’s hopes for a last-minute comeback.
Junior running back Lamar Ellis was a standout performer, contributing significantly to the victory with two touchdowns. Ellis, who dazzled with five touchdowns just last week, opened the scoring with a 17-yard run that put O’Dowd ahead 6-0 in the first quarter. Despite a blocked extra point attempt, the momentum was palpable.
Chico responded swiftly, with Bernardez connecting on a touchdown pass to Jake Detmer that gave the home team a brief lead of 7-6. O’Dowd, undeterred, fought back. A 24-yard field goal from Zach Brien at the end of the first half flipped the score to 9-7 in O’Dowd’s favor.
In a fierce second half, Chico regained the lead through Bernardez’s 10-yard touchdown run, making the score 14-9. However, O’Dowd’s Trevor Erickson responded dramatically, returning the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, swinging the momentum back to O’Dowd at 16-14.
The Dragons’ defense proved essential, especially after Chico fumbled at the 1-yard line, which could have shifted the game’s tide. With the clock ticking down, Ellis made a remarkable play, weaving through defenders for a touchdown that extended the lead to 23-14.
Chico fought back with Bernardez scoring again, narrowing the gap to 23-20, but a blocked PAT left the door open for O’Dowd. As Chico regained possession with just over two minutes left, O’Dowd’s defense rose to the occasion, sealing the championship with a game-ending sack.
With this hard-fought victory, O’Dowd (10-4) is now set to face Christian-El Cajon next week in Southern California, aiming to replicate the success of their 2016 championship team.
This thrilling regional championship not only highlights O’Dowd’s athletic prowess but also showcases the tenacity and heart that defines high school football. Fans and supporters are eager to see if the Dragons can bring home their second state title.
Stay tuned for further updates as O’Dowd prepares for the next challenge and for details on their journey to the state finals.
