High school football fans in Northern California have their eyes set on Friday, September 5, 2025, as the Clear Lake Cardinals travel to Arbuckle to face the Pierce Bears in a non-conference matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., and the game promises plenty of intensity with both programs eager to make an early-season statement.
Clear Lake vs Pierce Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Clear Lake vs Pierce
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Fans can purchase digital tickets through GoFan and catch the live stream on the NFHS Network.
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Current Records and Rankings
Looking at the early standings, both teams enter the contest with vastly different trajectories:
- Clear Lake Cardinals (0-1)
- Overall Record: 0–1
- Points For: 6
- Points Against: 30
- National Ranking: 9,041
- California Ranking: 619
- Pierce Bears (1-0)
- Overall Record: 1–0
- Points For: 14
- Points Against: 13
- National Ranking: 8,396
- California Ranking: 566
Though rankings are still shifting this early in the season, Pierce holds the edge both nationally and within California. The Bears also opened their year on a high note, something the Cardinals will be determined to match.
Recent Performances
- Clear Lake’s Start:
The Cardinals dropped their first game of the season, giving up 30 points while only scoring 6. While the loss stings, it provides valuable lessons to apply heading into their clash with Pierce. - Pierce’s Momentum:
The Bears pulled off a close 14–13 road win against Amador on August 29. They relied heavily on a balanced offense with contributions in both the rushing and passing game. That confidence could carry over into Friday’s matchup.
Scoring Averages
The numbers tell the story of two very different Week 1 experiences:
- Clear Lake Cardinals: Averaging 6.0 points per game
- Pierce Bears: Averaging 14.0 points per game (7 in the first and third quarters of their opener)
While it’s still early, Clear Lake will need to find more offensive rhythm to keep pace with Pierce’s ability to put points on the board.
Team Stats Breakdown
Clear Lake Cardinals
- Passing Yards/Game: –
- Rushing Yards/Game: –
- Receiving Yards/Game: –
- Total Yards/Game: –
The Cardinals’ offensive production has yet to be clearly established, though key contributors like quarterback Austin Jorge and receiver Nate Macintosh will be crucial to their turnaround.
Pierce Bears
- Rushing Yards/Game: 143.0
- Passing Yards/Game: 111.0
- Receiving Yards/Game: 111.0
- Total Yards/Game: 254.0
Pierce’s balance is impressive. Averaging more than 250 yards per game, the Bears have demonstrated they can move the ball through the air and on the ground.
Key Players to Watch
Clear Lake Cardinals
- Austin Jorge
- Passing: 111 yards per game
- Rushing: 61 yards per game
- Total Offense: 172 yards per game
- Nate Macintosh
- Receiving: 92 yards per game
Jorge is clearly the focal point of Clear Lake’s offense, handling both passing and rushing duties. Macintosh provides a reliable target in the passing game.
Pierce Bears
- While individual leaders haven’t been highlighted in the stats provided, the Bears’ collective offensive output shows a team-oriented attack. Their balanced yardage indicates contributions from multiple skill players.
Record Breakdown
Both teams bring unique strengths and challenges into Friday’s matchup:
- Clear Lake (0-1)
- League: 0–0
- Non-League: 0–1
- Home: 0–0
- Away: 0–1
- Pierce (1-0)
- League: 0–0
- Non-League: 1–0
- Home: 0–0
- Away: 1–0
Interestingly, Pierce has already proven it can win on the road, while Clear Lake has yet to test itself at home. This week gives both teams new territory to navigate.
Head-to-Head History
As of now, Clear Lake and Pierce do not have a recorded head-to-head matchup. This makes Friday’s contest even more intriguing, as one team will leave with the first victory in this developing series.
What Each Team Needs to Do
Clear Lake Cardinals
- Establish Offensive Consistency: The Cardinals must capitalize on Jorge’s dual-threat ability and Macintosh’s receiving skills. Sustaining drives will be key to avoiding defensive fatigue.
- Defensive Adjustments: Allowing 30 points in the opener exposed vulnerabilities. Better containment of Pierce’s rushing game will be essential.
- Start Strong: Falling behind early could force Clear Lake into a one-dimensional offense.
Pierce Bears
- Stick to Balance: With nearly equal yardage from passing and rushing, the Bears should continue mixing plays to keep the Cardinals guessing.
- Tighten Defense: Despite winning, Pierce allowed 13 points in its opener. Limiting big plays will help maintain control.
- Control the Clock: A ground-heavy attack could wear down Clear Lake’s defense and tilt possession in Pierce’s favor.
Game Day Atmosphere
Friday night in Arbuckle is expected to bring an energetic crowd as Pierce plays its first home game of the season. With Clear Lake eager to spoil the opener, fans can expect a competitive contest.
Those unable to attend can purchase tickets digitally through GoFan and catch all the action live on the NFHS Network.
Prediction Outlook
While predictions in high school football are never guaranteed, current numbers give Pierce the edge. Their balanced offense and momentum from Week 1 make them a tough opponent for a Clear Lake squad still looking to find its footing.
However, if Clear Lake can unlock its offensive potential and limit mistakes, an upset is not out of the question. This matchup has the ingredients for a tight game under the lights.
Final Thoughts
The Clear Lake vs Pierce showdown on September 5 is more than just another non-conference game—it’s a measuring stick for both programs. Clear Lake wants redemption after a rough opener, while Pierce hopes to keep rolling with a second consecutive win.
