This past September 6th, the Mater Dei Monarchs faced off against Bishop Gorman High School at the Santa Ana Bowl. This game, with Mater Dei being MaxPreps’ national rank 1 and Bishop Gorman being national rank 2, was surely a game to watch. A game in which the Mater Dei Monarchs had a secure victory, winning 31-15.
The Monarchs set their tone from play 1. Their defense was especially strong in this game, recording 6 sacks. This held Bishop Gormans normally intense offense to just 15 points over the course of the game. By halftime, the Monarchs were leading 14-7.
Going back to the Monarchs defense. Crucial players such as Abduall Sanders, Nasir Wyatt, and CJ Lavender Jr. played big roles in Bishop Gormans offensive struggles. Sanders himself recorded two sacks. Nasir Wyatt recorded 1 sack, and was a constant presence in the backfield of the Monarchs defense. CJ Lavender Jr. picked up a crucial interception which led to a scoring drive for the Monarchs.
As much as the Mater Dei defense could contribute to the win, it was the offense that capitalized on the defensive victory for the Monarchs. 2025 quarterback Dash Beierly had an astounding game, completing 13 passes on 15 attempts for 100 yards and a touchdown, as well as rushing for 61 yards. Running back Jordon Davison recorded 90 yards on 19 carries as well as picking up two touchdowns. Wide receiver Kayden Dixon-Wyatt led the team in receiving with 6 catches picking up 58 yards.
This victory for the Monarchs broke Bishop Gorman’s 27 game winning streak, as well as creating a visible border between the nationally rank 1 Mater Dei and rank 2 Bishop Gorman. The Monarch’s complete offense and defense package secured this critical win against Bishop Gorman.
The Monarchs are set to face St. John Bosco on September 13th. Bosco, MaxPreps nationally ranked 3, is surely a highly anticipated game.
For Bishop Gorman, this is certainly a game to learn from as they face Liberty High School on September 13th.
