O’Dowd Triumphs Over Chico to Secure CIF 5-AA NorCal Title

Bishop O’Dowd has emerged victorious in the CIF 5-AA NorCal championship, defeating Chico High School with a score of 23-20 in a closely contested game on March 15, 2024. The Dragons, who traveled nearly three hours from Oakland to participate in this regional final, demonstrated resilience and skill, culminating in a decisive fourth-down sack against quarterback John Bernardez in the final moments of the match.

O’Dowd’s success was fueled by the dynamic performance of junior running back Lamar Ellis, who contributed significantly to the team’s offense. The Dragons also showcased a formidable special-teams unit, which recorded two crucial blocks and returned a kickoff for a touchdown that shifted the momentum in their favor. The victory marks a repeat of the success achieved by O’Dowd’s 2016 team, which also won the same classification.

Key Moments Define the Match

The game began with Lamar Ellis scoring a 17-yard touchdown run, initially giving O’Dowd a 6-0 lead. A deep pass from Christian Cermenelli-Johnson to Jess Brown set up this early score, although the subsequent extra point attempt was blocked. Chico responded promptly with a touchdown pass to Jake Detmer, taking a 7-6 lead after a successful PAT.

As the first half progressed, O’Dowd’s Zach Brien kicked a 24-yard field goal just as time expired, allowing the Dragons to enter halftime with a narrow 9-7 advantage. The second half began with Chico taking control, driving 80 yards for a touchdown, which saw Bernardez score from 10 yards out. Despite fumbling as he crossed the goal line, the play was ruled a touchdown, putting Chico ahead 14-9.

O’Dowd quickly regained momentum when Trevor Erickson sprinted 95 yards on the ensuing kickoff for a touchdown, swinging the score back to 16-14. The game continued to see-saw as both teams fought for control. A critical moment came when Chico fumbled at the 1-yard line, preserving O’Dowd’s lead.

Defensive Stand Seals the Victory

In a dramatic turn of events, Ellis executed a spectacular run for another touchdown, extending O’Dowd’s lead to 23-14. Chico responded with a determined drive, culminating in Bernardez’s 7-yard keeper that narrowed the score to 23-20 with just over five minutes remaining. The PAT was blocked, leaving Chico trailing.

With just over two minutes left, Chico regained possession after a fourth-down stop deep in their territory. However, O’Dowd’s defense proved impenetrable, ultimately sealing the game with a fourth-down sack of Bernardez. The Dragons’ victory not only secures the NorCal title but also sets the stage for a clash against Christian-El Cajon in the upcoming state championship.

As O’Dowd celebrates this hard-fought victory, the team looks forward to the challenge ahead, aiming to replicate the success of their 2016 predecessors. The Dragons’ journey reflects their determination and skill, marking a significant achievement in the school’s football history.