Football Game Preview: Lincoln Lions vs. Branham Bruins

For the first time this season, Lincoln will have a chance to prove themselves in a conference matchup. After each having a week off, they and the Branham Bruins will shake off the rust and duke it out at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday. Lincoln knows how to get points on the board -- the team has finished with 31 points or more in their past five games -- so hopefully Branham likes a good challenge.

Last Friday, Lincoln got the win against Del Mar by a conclusive 47-21. Considering the Lions have won four contests by more than 20 points this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.

Luca Papoulias

Passing Touchdowns

08/29/25 vs Willow Glen	1
09/05/25 vs San Jose	1
09/11/25 vs Leland	2
09/18/25 @ Gunderson	3
09/26/25 vs Del Mar	4

Lincoln found their leader in sophomore Luca Papoulias, who threw for 154 yards and four TDs on only 12 passes. Those four passing touchdowns set a new season-high mark for Papoulias.

Meanwhile, Branham was fully in charge last Friday, breezing past Piedmont Hills 51-15. The Bruins haven't had any issues with the Pirates recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive victory against them.

Lincoln better keep an eye on Michael Murphy. He was instrumental in Branham's win, rushing for 122 yards and three touchdowns on only five carries, while also picking up 73 receiving yards and one score. Murphy got the majority of those receiving yards when he pulled down a pass and took off for a gain of 65 yards. Brayden Hodges was another key player, gaining 147 total yards and a touchdown.

Branham was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 293 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Piedmont Hills only rushed for -2.

Lincoln's record is now 5-0. As for Branham, their record now sits at 4-1.

Things could have been worse for Lincoln, but things could have been a whole lot better as they took a 55-40 loss to Branham when the teams last played back in October of 2024. Can the Lions avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.