Talk about a season opener! Santa Margarita pulled off an incredible overtime upset against Centennial, delivering Carson Palmer his first coaching win in a debut for the ages. From stunning interceptions to clutch defensive stops, this game had it all. What an electrifying start for the Eagles – could this be a sign of what’s to come?
The 2025 high school football season kicked off with an electrifying showdown that saw Santa Margarita High School secure a dramatic 33–27 overtime victory against formidable Corona Centennial. This thrilling opener not only delivered a nail-biting spectacle for fans but also marked a significant milestone: the first win for legendary former USC and NFL quarterback Carson Palmer in his highly anticipated return to his alma mater as head coach.
From the outset, it was clear that Santa Margarita’s defense would be a defining factor in this contest. Spearheaded by stellar individual performances, the Eagles’ defensive unit consistently applied pressure and made crucial stops throughout the game, demonstrating a resilience that would ultimately carry them to victory against the Centennial football squad.
A standout moment came from sophomore defensive back Prime Williams, whose two pivotal interceptions on back-to-back drives swung momentum decisively in Santa Margarita’s favor. His spectacular pick on the final play of the first half, where he skillfully outmaneuvered a receiver on a post route near the goal line, showcased remarkable athleticism and football IQ, highlighting a key turning point.
Despite Santa Margarita’s early heroics and defensive prowess, Corona Centennial mounted a formidable comeback in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Dominick Catalano connected with Ty Plinski for two critical touchdown passes, erasing a late deficit and forcing the game into an intense overtime period, proving the mettle of both teams.
The extra period became a testament to defensive fortitude and clutch special teams play. A blocked extra point earlier in the game, combined with timely defensive interventions, had set the stage for overtime. In the high-stakes final frame, Santa Margarita’s defensive line and secondary again rose to the occasion, holding Centennial scoreless and giving their offense the opportunity to clinch the California football triumph.
Turnovers and critical special teams plays proved to be the ultimate differentiators. While Centennial bravely fought back to level the score, those crucial interceptions and the blocked extra point allowed Santa Margarita to maintain a narrow advantage and capitalize when it mattered most, illustrating the fine margins in high school overtime football.
This memorable debut for Carson Palmer coaching at Santa Margarita sets a powerful precedent for the Eagles’ 2025 season. The resilience shown, especially in the face of a strong Centennial team, sends a clear message that Santa Margarita is poised to contend, and fans can anticipate an exciting season filled with competitive matchups and developing talent.
