UPDATE: Bishop O’Dowd has clinched the CIF 5-AA NorCal title with a dramatic 23-20 victory over Chico on December 1, 2023. In a nail-biting finish, the Dragons’ defense made a game-changing stop in the final moments, securing their spot in the state finals.
The Dragons, traveling nearly three hours to Chico, fought hard in a game that showcased their resilience and determination. With just 90 seconds remaining, O’Dowd’s defense swarmed quarterback John Bernardez, executing a crucial fourth-down sack that allowed the team to breathe easy and begin their celebration.
Junior running back Lamar Ellis was a standout performer, contributing significantly to the victory with two touchdowns. His electrifying 17-yard run in the first quarter set the tone, giving O’Dowd an early lead. The Dragons also displayed strength on special teams, successfully blocking both a field goal and an extra point, and returning a kickoff for a go-ahead touchdown.
Chico (11-3) initially took the lead with a touchdown pass to Jake Detmer, but O’Dowd quickly responded. After a timeout that interrupted a potential touchdown from fullback OC Lehner, the Dragons found themselves trailing again after another Chico touchdown. However, O’Dowd’s defense held strong, including a pivotal fumble recovery at their own 1-yard line.
As the game progressed, the score teetered back and forth. O’Dowd regained the lead with a 24-yard field goal from Zach Brien just as the first half concluded, pushing them ahead 9-7.
The second half saw Chico score first, taking a 14-9 advantage. But just moments later, the Dragons answered with a spectacular 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Trevor Erickson. As the game came down to the wire, Ellis delivered a jaw-dropping run that extended O’Dowd’s lead to 23-14.
Chico fought back, narrowing the gap to 23-20 with a touchdown by Bernardez. However, their hopes were dashed when O’Dowd’s defense stepped up, preventing any further scoring and sealing the victory.
With this win, Bishop O’Dowd (10-4) now advances to the state championship against Christian-El Cajon next week. The Dragons aim to replicate the success of their 2016 team, which also captured the state title.
As excitement builds for the upcoming game, fans of Bishop O’Dowd are eager to rally behind their team as they strive for a second state championship. The thrilling nature of this victory over Chico is sure to resonate in the hearts of players and supporters alike.
