This Saturday, September 13, 2025, a classic Bay Area football rivalry is set to be renewed as the Pittsburg Pirates travel to San Francisco to face the Archbishop Riordan Crusaders.1 This is a highly anticipated non-conference matchup that will have a major impact on both teams’ seasons and their respective state rankings. Pittsburg, a perennial powerhouse, is coming into the game with a perfect 2-0 record, having already secured impressive wins against tough opponents.2 The Pirates are looking to continue their dominant season and make a statement against their rival. Meanwhile, Archbishop Riordan, a formidable program in its own right, is also a highly respected team with a perfect 2-0 record.3 The Crusaders will be looking to continue their undefeated season and prove they are a force to be reckoned with. The outcome of this game will be a significant indicator of each team’s potential for a deep playoff run and will have major implications for state rankings. This showdown is a true clash of styles and a test of wills between two of the state’s most storied programs.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: High School Football
Who: Pittsburg vs Archbishop Riordan
When: Saturday, Sep. 13, 2025
Local time: 1:30 PM
Location: California
Watch Here: Start Your Free trial today
Supporters have the option to buy digital tickets via GoFan or watch the game live on the NFHS Network
(subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year)
Who Will Win This Matchup?
Based on recent performance and overall team strength, Pittsburg is the favorite to win this matchup. The Pirates have been on a tear, boasting a perfect 2-0 record with impressive wins over Bishop Manogue Catholic and Heritage.4 Their offense has been explosive, putting up an average of 39 points per game, showcasing their ability to move the ball and find the end zone against strong competition. Pittsburg is currently ranked as a top team in California, a testament to their strength of schedule and performance.5
Archbishop Riordan, with a 2-0 record, has also had a strong start to the season with dominant wins against McClymonds and Monte Vista.6 For Archbishop Riordan to have any chance at an upset, they will need a near-perfect performance from their defense and a strong running game to control the clock and limit turnovers. While the Crusaders have a strong program and home-field advantage, Pittsburg’s superior talent, momentum, and experience playing against elite competition make them the more likely winner in this contest. All signs point to a convincing win for the Pirates, as they are expected to dominate the game.
Two Team Records, History, and Recent Results
Team History
Pittsburg High School: The Pirates, from Pittsburg, have a long and storied football history. They are a consistent powerhouse in California high school football, with a history of making deep playoff runs and winning numerous league and regional championships. The program is known for its discipline and physical play and has produced numerous college and professional-level players. The rivalry between Pittsburg and Archbishop Riordan is a long-standing tradition. In the last matchup in 2024, Pittsburg won with a score of 56-42.7
Archbishop Riordan High School: The Crusaders, from San Francisco, also have a long and respected football history. They are a consistent winner in their league and have a history of making deep playoff runs. The program is known for its physical style of play and its ability to compete with top-tier opponents. Archbishop Riordan is a member of the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL), one of the most competitive leagues in the United States.8 The rivalry between Pittsburg and Archbishop Riordan has been a key matchup in the Bay Area for years.
Team Recent Results
The two teams have had perfect starts to the 2025 season. The Pittsburg Pirates have been dominant in their two games, showcasing a high-powered offense that has put up big points against their opponents. The Archbishop Riordan Crusaders have also been impressive, with two convincing wins to start their season.9 The upcoming game is a critical test for both programs as they look to build on their records and prepare for their respective conference schedules.
Pittsburg Recent Results
The Pirates are off to a perfect 2-0 start to the season with two dominant wins.10
| Date | Opponent | Result | Score |
| Sep 6, 2025 | vs. Bishop Manogue Catholic | W | 42-27 |11
| Sep 10, 2025 | @ Heritage | W | 47-6 |
Archbishop Riordan Recent Results
The Crusaders have had a strong start to the season with a perfect 2-0 record.12
| Date | Opponent | Result | Score |
| Aug 30, 2025 | vs. McClymonds | W | 41-18 |13
| Sep 5, 2025 | @ Monte Vista | W | 34-0 |14
Pittsburg Team Upcoming Games Schedule
After their game against Archbishop Riordan, the Pittsburg Pirates will continue their challenging schedule with a series of crucial league matchups. The Pirates will need to play their best football to compete in their tough region.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| Sep 26, 2025 | vs. Marin Catholic | Away |
| Oct 3, 2025 | vs. Los Gatos | Home |
| Oct 10, 2025 | @ Freedom | Away |
| Oct 17, 2025 | @ Liberty | Away |
| Oct 24, 2025 | vs. Antioch | Home |
| Oct 31, 2025 | vs. Berkeley | Home |
Archbishop Riordan Team Upcoming Games Schedule
Following their matchup with Pittsburg, the Archbishop Riordan Crusaders will continue their demanding schedule with a series of crucial league games. The Crusaders will have a tough road ahead as they enter their conference schedule, which will test their state championship aspirations.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| Sep 26, 2025 | vs. St. Francis | Home |
| Oct 3, 2025 | @ Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep | Away |
| Oct 11, 2025 | vs. St. Ignatius College Preparatory | Home |
| Oct 18, 2025 | vs. Valley Christian | Home |
| Oct 24, 2025 | vs. Bellarmine | Away |
| Nov 1, 2025 | @ Archbishop Mitty | Away |
