O’Dowd Triumphs Over Chico in Thrilling 5-AA NorCal Title Clash

UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, Bishop O’Dowd has secured the CIF 5-AA NorCal championship, defeating Chico 23-20 on November 10, 2023. The victory, achieved in a tense showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, propels the Dragons into the state finals next week.

With just 90 seconds left on the clock, O’Dowd’s defense made a game-winning play, sacking Chico quarterback John Bernardez on fourth down. This crucial moment allowed the Dragons to breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate their hard-fought victory.

The Dragons, who traveled nearly three hours to compete, showcased their determination throughout the match. Junior running back Lamar Ellis was instrumental in the win, scoring two touchdowns and electrifying the crowd with his dynamic performance. His 17-yard run in the first quarter put O’Dowd ahead 6-0, despite a blocked extra point attempt.

Chico, with a record of 11-3, retaliated quickly with a touchdown pass to Jake Detmer, taking a brief lead at 7-6. O’Dowd clawed back with a field goal from Zach Brien right before halftime, ending the half with a narrow 9-7 advantage.

The second half saw a major shift. Following a lengthy drive, Chico regained the lead 14-9 when Bernardez scored on a 10-yard rush. However, O’Dowd responded dramatically, with Trevor Erickson returning the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, swinging the momentum back to the Dragons at 16-14.

The game continued with dramatic plays, including a critical fumble recovery by O’Dowd at the 1-yard line that preserved their lead. Ellis capped off his standout night with a dazzling touchdown run, weaving through defenders to extend the lead to 23-14.

Chico fought back, narrowing the gap with Bernardez’s second touchdown, making it 23-20, but the blocked PAT proved costly. As the clock wound down, Chico’s chance for victory slipped away, culminating in the pivotal fourth-down sack by O’Dowd’s defense.

With this championship win, O’Dowd (10-4) now sets its sights on the state finals, aiming to replicate the success of their 2016 team which also claimed the same title. Next week, they will face Christian-El Cajon in Southern California, a match that promises to be another thrilling contest.

As O’Dowd players and fans celebrate this significant regional championship, the anticipation builds for their upcoming challenge. The Dragons are poised to make their mark once again as they vie for the state championship title.

Stay tuned for more updates as O’Dowd prepares for this critical matchup!