O’Dowd Captures 5-AA NorCal Title with Thrilling 23-20 Win

BREAKING: Bishop O’Dowd has clinched the CIF 5-AA NorCal title with a nail-biting 23-20 victory over Chico, marking a triumphant return to championship glory. The dramatic showdown unfolded on Friday night, July 14, 2023, after a nearly three-hour journey to Chico’s home turf.

In a game defined by intense competition, the Dragons’ defense sealed their fate with a pivotal fourth-down sack against Chico quarterback John Bernardez in the final moments, allowing O’Dowd to breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate their hard-fought victory. Junior running back Lamar Ellis was instrumental, adding two touchdowns and electrifying the game with his performance.

The Dragons, now boasting a 10-4 record, previously won this same classification in 2016. They will face Christian-El Cajon next week, aiming for the program’s second state championship.

O’Dowd jumped to an early lead with Ellis’ 17-yard touchdown run, only to see Chico respond with a touchdown pass to Jake Detmer. Although O’Dowd initially regained the lead with a 1-yard touchdown from fullback OC Lehner, a timeout before the snap thwarted their momentum, allowing Chico to block a critical field goal attempt later in the half.

The first half ended with a 24-yard field goal from Zach Brien, giving O’Dowd a 9-7 lead at halftime. However, Chico surged ahead in the third quarter with Bernardez’s touchdown, only for O’Dowd to retaliate seconds later with a spectacular 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown from Trevor Erickson, reclaiming a 16-14 lead.

As the fourth quarter progressed, the tension mounted. A crucial fumble at the 1-yard line by Chico denied them a potential lead, and Ellis showcased his exceptional skill with a stunning run that extended O’Dowd’s lead to 23-14. In a final effort, Chico closed the gap with Bernardez’s 7-yard touchdown run, but their hopes were dashed when O’Dowd’s defense held firm, stopping Chico in a dramatic final stand.

This victory not only revives memories of O’Dowd’s previous championship but also ignites excitement as they prepare for the state finals. Fans are eager to witness if the Dragons can replicate their past success. Stay tuned for updates as O’Dowd aims for glory in Southern California.