Main Story

Mater Dei erased a 14-point deficit in the final 3:26, stunning rival St. John Bosco 36-35 in a wild Trinity League finale. Freshman quarterback Paytyn Guess threw the tying touchdown with 7.5 seconds left, then Mater Dei converted a two-point try for the win.

By the Numbers
  • Mater Dei overcame a 35-21 deficit with 3:26 remaining.
  • Guess accounted for 5 touchdowns, completing 12 of 16 passes for 249 yards.
  • St. John Bosco quarterback Koa Malau'ulu completed 24 of 33 passes for 332 yards and 3 touchdowns, and added a rushing score.
  • Mater Dei improved to 34-13 all time against Bosco and has won 5 straight in the rivalry.
Yes, But

Bosco controlled much of the second half, scoring 21 unanswered points and appearing to have the game secured. The loss leaves the Braves entering the playoffs after another close defeat to Mater Dei.

State of Play
  • Mater Dei finished the regular season 8-2 overall and 4-1 in league play, securing second place.
  • St. John Bosco finished 7-3 overall and 3-2 in league play.
  • Mater Dei is likely to receive the No. 3 seed in the Southern Section Division I playoffs; Bosco is expected to land at No. 4 or No. 5.
Bottom Line

Guess and Mater Dei turned a game that seemed lost into a defining rivalry win—and carried dramatic momentum into the playoffs.