Football Game Preview: Centennial Golden Hawks vs. Bakersfield Drillers + How To Watch

Centennial hasn't had much luck against Bakersfield recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Golden Hawks will head out on the road to take on the Drillers at 7:30 p.m.

On Friday, Centennial came up short against Garces Memorial and fell 16-7. While losing is never fun, the Golden Hawks can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California football rankings (they are ranked 374th, while the Rams are ranked 146th).

Meanwhile, Bakersfield strolled into their game on Friday with a perfect record and they left with the same. They took their matchup with ease, bagging a 63-0 victory over Highland. The Drillers' offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.

Centennial better keep an eye on Elon Mackey. He was instrumental in Bakersfield's win, rushing for 59 yards and two scores, while also throwing for 132 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

One reason for the win was Bakersfield's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for six sacks. Geremy Molett was particularly dangerous to the passing game, picking up four himself. Bakersfield received some extra help from Molett, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.

Centennial's loss dropped their record down to 1-5. As for Bakersfield, their win bumped their record up to 6-0.

Centennial and Bakersfield were almost perfectly matched up in their previous matchup back in October of 2024, but Centennial suffered an agonizing 22-21 defeat. Can the Golden Hawks avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.