Allin Polymillikan2024 34
Compton Football Millikan

Preview: Compton vs. Millikan, Football

The562’s coverage of football in 2024-25 is sponsored by The Terry Donahue Memorial California Showcase.

Friday night’s regular season finale at DeHaven Stadium is setting up to be a coronation for the host Millikan Rams, as they look to finish off the program’s second outright Moore League championship since 1957.

The last time Milikan sat alone atop the Moore League was in 1973, and with a win over Compton they can complete one of the greatest seasons in school history. Since their loss against Downey that dropped them to 1-2 on the year, the Rams have rattled off six straight wins, hoping to make it seven straight on their way into the CIF-SS playoffs.

Offense has not been an issue for Millikan, as they’ve averaged 49.4 points per game and have scored 45 or more in all five league games. The Rams have proven they can run the ball on just about anyone, so getting the passing attack some rhythm could be key entering the postseason.

Millikan defeated Compton 56-7 last season and have won four straight meetings against Compton. The last Tarbabes victory was a 48-42 triumph in 2019.

This season, Compton (3-5) is still in search of its first Moore League win, coming off a close loss to Jordan last Friday night at Cabrillo.

It’s a young roster that’s added some key pieces during the year, including the arrival of sophomore Jay’Rome Norwood last week. The Mater Dei transfer is a hard guy to miss at linebacker and tight end, and will likely be a featured component of Compton’s gameplan.

A Millikan victory would set a new benchmark for the Romeo Pellum era with 8 wins, though Rams fans are certainly hoping for more in the playoffs. With a bye week to close out their schedule, Millikan would have extra time to soak in their historic achievement and make room for their Moore League trophy.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at DeHaven Stadium.

Tyler Hendrickson
Tyler Hendrickson was born and raised in Long Beach, and started covering sports in his hometown in 2010. After five years as a sportswriter, Tyler joined the athletic department at Long Beach State University in 2015. He spent more than four years in the athletic communications department, working primarily with the Dirtbags baseball program. Tyler also co-authored of The History of Long Beach Poly: Scholars & Champions.
http://the562.org