Mater Dei Football taking on multiple rivals in tough schedule

Mater Dei once again proved worthy of its nickname in 2023, as the Monarchs claimed another California state title, its fourth since 2017.

Despite the stellar 13-1 campaign, the powerhouse program out of Santa Ana dismissed Frank McManus following his first season as head coach and have since hired longtime California coach Raul Lara to take over.

With the focus back on the gridiron for the upcoming 2024 season, the Monarchs are once again gearing up to take on one of the toughest schedules in the nation. An early-season clash at home against Bishop Gorman (Nev.) will set the tone, while a pair of in-state rivalries, on the road against Servite and at home against St. John Bosco, will make for an important October.

Monarchs bringing another loaded roster to the field in 2024

The On3 Industry Ranking is once again coated in scarlet and grey as Mater Dei boasts an elite roster. Headlined by six blue-chip seniors and the top-ranked junior in the nation, the Monarchs have a legitimate case to be the preseason No. 1 team in the nation:

Alabama 4-star CB commit Chuck McDonald (No. 73 NATL., No. 8 CB)
Oregon 4-star LB commit Nasir Wyatt (No. 132 NATL., No. 14 LB)
Oregon 4-star RB commit Jordon Davison (No. 137 NATL., No. 6 RB)
Penn State 4-star CB commit Daryus Dixson (No. 159 NATL., No. 19 CB)
Oklahoma 4-star WR commit Marcus Harris (No. 215 NATL., No. 25 WR)
Alabama 4-star LB commit Abduall Sanders (No. 343 NATL., No. 32 LB)
Washington 3-star QB commit Dash Beierly (No. 433 NATL., No. 30 QB)
2026 Ohio State Five-Star Plus+ WR commit Chris Henry Jr. (No. 1 NATL.)
2026 4-star OT Kodi Greene (No. 33 NATL., No. 5 OT)
2026 4-star WR Kayden Dixon-Wyatt (No. 186 NATL., No. 29 WR)
2026 4-star DL Tomuhini Topui (No. 197 NATL., No. 21 DL)
2026 4-star EDGE Shaun Scott (No. 198 NATL., No. 16 EDGE)
2026 3-star CB CJ Lavender (No. 389 NATL., No. 31 CB)

Mater Dei 2024 Schedule

Aug. 22: vs. Centennial (Calif.)
Sept. 6: vs. Bishop Gorman (Nev.)
Sept. 15: @ Kahuku (Hawaii)
Sept. 27: vs. St. Frances Academy (Md.)
Oct. 4: @ Santa Margarita (Calif.)
Oct. 11: @ Servite (Calif.)
Oct. 18: @ J Serra Catholic (Calif.)
Oct. 25: vs. St. John Bosco (Calif.)
Nov. 1: vs. Orange Lutheran (Calif.)

About Mater Dei

The striped Mater Dei helmet is iconic when it comes to high school football in the Golden State. The Monarchs remain one of the most prominent programs in the nation. Notable former Monarchs include Bryce Young, Matt Leinart, Matt Barkley, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Khaled Holmes, Quentin Lake and Thomas Duarte.

“Mater Dei High School, located in Santa Ana, California, is a top Catholic college preparatory school known for its rigorous academics, vibrant arts programs, and outstanding athletics. Since its founding in 1950, Mater Dei has emphasized spiritual growth, community service, and leadership. The school consistently produces National Merit Scholars and championship sports teams, offering a diverse array of clubs and activities that prepare students for success in higher education and beyond.” — via school’s website.