Game Preview: Western Pioneers vs. Salesian Mustangs

Date/Time: Thursday, August 21, 2025 – 7:00 PMLocation: Western High School (Anaheim, CA)

Western High School Pioneers (Home Team)

Nickname: Pioneers

Colors: Royal Blue & White

Head Coach: Dan Davidson

League: Delta League

Team Outlook

Western enters the 2025 season looking to build on a 5–6 campaign in 2024. Despite last year’s losing record, the Pioneers showcased one of the more explosive offenses in the Southern Section, averaging over 33 points per game. Their Achilles heel was defense, surrendering nearly 38 points per contest.

The Pioneers return a solid core on both sides of the ball with five starters back on offense and five on defense. Most importantly, they bring back their field general:

Chance Thomas (Jr., QB, 6’2″, 200) – Already viewed as one of the section’s rising elite quarterbacks, Thomas has the arm talent and mobility to put constant pressure on defenses.

He’ll be supported by:

Maxwell Young (Sr., WR, 6’0″, 175) – A reliable target who stretches the field.

Ernest Nunley (Sr., DB/WR, 6’1″, 185) – A two-way threat with playmaking ability.

Skylar Lendsey (Sr., RB, 5’10″, 190) – The team’s top D1 prospect, expected to be the workhorse in the backfield.

Strengths: Offensive firepower, QB leadershipWeaknesses: Depth, linebacker unit

With a 2025 starting power rating of 6.6 (ranked #162 in California), Western is projected to be competitive in most games, especially with a much lighter strength of schedule than last season.

Salesian High School Mustangs (Away Team)

Nickname: Mustangs

Colors: Black & Columbia Blue

Head Coach: Anthony Atkins

League: Del Rey League

Team Outlook

Salesian is coming off an impressive 9–4 record in 2024, including a perfect 5–0 league finish. They were one of the stingiest defenses in their division last year, allowing just 13.2 points per game while posting multiple shutouts.

However, 2025 looks very different. With only three returning starters on each side of the ball, the Mustangs are in heavy rebuild mode. They lost their starting quarterback, leading rusher, and top defenders.

Key returners include:

Jordan Slye (So., ATH, 6’1″, 185) – A young but dynamic athlete who could be featured in multiple roles.

J’Anthony Cobb (Sr., RB, 5’11″, 200) – A strong, physical runner capable of controlling tempo.

Derek Gonzalez (Jr., OL, 6’6″, 290) – Anchors the offensive line and provides size up front.

Strengths: Leadership, defensive front seven, athleticismWeaknesses: Skill position depth, penalties, lack of experience in high-pressure situations

Salesian’s 2025 starting power rating (-15.7) ranks them #303 in the state, a steep drop from last year’s top-250 level.

Matchup Breakdown

Western Offense vs. Salesian Defense: This is the headline matchup. Thomas and Lendsey give Western a legitimate chance to overwhelm a young Salesian secondary. If the Pioneers’ offensive line gives Thomas time, big plays are coming.

Salesian Offense vs. Western Defense: Western’s defense has been shaky, but Salesian’s inexperience at QB and skill positions means they may struggle to sustain drives. Cobb’s running ability could test Western’s thin linebacker corps.

Momentum Factors: Western is playing at home, with a high-powered offense and an experienced QB. Salesian is in transition, relying on youth and unproven depth.

Prediction

Western’s offensive firepower and veteran leadership should be too much for a rebuilding Salesian team on the road. Expect the Pioneers to set the tone early behind Chance Thomas’ arm and Skylar Lendsey’s ground attack.

Projected Score:Western 38, Salesian 20