August 28, 2026 –
This was the matchup everyone in the Northern California high school football world was talking about. With many expecting Junipero Serra to come out on top, De La Salle had other plans — and the Spartans may have revealed a completely different identity this season.After relying heavily on the run game last year, De La Salle showed that they can make plays through the air with QB Jaxon Loftin taking the reins.
Loftin looked comfortable under pressure all night, repeatedly dropping back with defenders in his face and delivering accurate throws to his targets. And when you have a legitimate deep threat like Damari Dean, defenses have to respect every blade of grass on the field. The game stayed neck and neck through the first half, with neither team willing to give an inch. But once the second half arrived, the Spartans’ pass rush began to take over.
De La Salle’s defensive front created constant pressure and made life difficult for the Padres’ offense. As the game opened up, Duece Jones-Drew found the end zone three times, helping propel the Spartans to a statement 35-28 victory over Junipero Serra. Now, De La Salle turns its attention to Cardinal Newman, who will be looking to bounce back after a tough overtime loss to Folsom.