Defense Dominates Season Opener

The De Anza Mountain Lions started their 2025 football campaign with a strong statement, defeating San Joaquin Delta 21–2 at home on Saturday afternoon. Behind a balanced offensive attack and a relentless defense, De Anza secured its first victory of the season to move to 1–0.

"We have plenty to work on, but I'm really proud of our team accomplishing 1-0 for the week," said De Anza head coach Joe D'Agostino.

"A lot of our guys played college football for the first time and it took a while to settle in. We made key plays when it mattered most, so we have some momentum to build on for Game 2. Our defense was stout, the kicking game was solid, and our offense sustained key scoring drives at critical times. I'm excited to get back to work next week."

First-Half Momentum

De Anza wasted little time setting the tone. Freshman quarterback Ian Kirby connected with sophomore All-American wide receiver Akeem Wright on a 22-yard touchdown strike just five minutes into the game, capping a one-play scoring drive after a quick change of possession. Freshman kicker Armando Rodriguez added the extra point for a 7–0 lead.

Later in the first quarter, the Mountain Lions extended their advantage with a nine-play, 62-yard march that ended in a 4-yard touchdown run by freshman tailback Ke'Yon Torain. Rodriguez again split the uprights, giving De Anza a 14–0 cushion.

Delta managed to get on the board early in the second quarter when the Mustangs forced a safety, but they were unable to generate any further offensive momentum before halftime, trailing 14–2 at the break.

Defense Dominates

The Lions' defense was the true difference-maker. They stifled Delta's offense, holding the visitors scoreless in the red zone on four separate trips.

Defensive standouts included three freshmen: Hosie Hopkins (2.0 sacks, 7 total tackles), My'Zel Brunson (1.5 sacks, 6 tackles), and Jaleel Hawkins (1.0 sack). As a unit, De Anza racked up six sacks and forced three turnovers, including a diving interception by sophomore Va'inga Mahe Jr..

Closing It Out

The game's final scoring drive showcased De Anza's offensive efficiency. Midway through the fourth quarter, Kirby engineered a grueling 14-play, 95-yard possession that chewed more than eight minutes off the clock. He capped it by finding Nix for an 8-yard touchdown, stretching the lead to 21–2.

Kirby finished the afternoon 16-for-23 passing with 220 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while Nix contributed as both a passer and receiver, catching three balls for 22 yards and throwing one completion for eight yards.

Wright emerged as Kirby's favorite target, hauling in six passes for 96 yards and the opening touchdown. Sophomore standout WR Jadhari Young also had a big impact, recording four receptions for 83 yards.

On the ground, Torain led all rushers with 14 carries for 67 yards and a touchdown, giving De Anza balance throughout the contest.

Looking Ahead

De Anza's season-opening win highlighted their depth and resilience, particularly in the trenches. With a productive offense and a defense that refused to bend, the Lions look poised to build momentum heading into their next matchup at Contra Costa (0-1) next Saturday at 1 p.m.

Photos By Pierre Whitsey ... Freshman LB Lamar Heath comes up with a fumble recovery ... Sophomore WR Akeem Wright makes an acrobatic 32-yard catch on the sideline.