The562’s football coverage for the 2026-27 school year is sponsored by Long Beach Poly alums Wendell “WoWo” Moe, Jr. & Tyson Ruffins.
The562’s coverage of Jordan Athletics is sponsored by former LBUSD superintendent Chris Steinhauser and the Timu Foundation.
When Compton and Jordan open their 2026 seasons Thursday night on the North Side, the game will mean more than just a win or loss.
The two former Moore League foes will clash for the CA-91 Gridiron Game trophy in the sixth installment of the local rivalry. Last season, Compton came away with its first victory since the trophy was introduced, defeating the Panthers 38-21.
Compton heads into the season with confidence and a returning core across multiple positions. Perhaps the biggest addition is junior Donnie Johnson III, who transferred from Dominguez and is cleared to play right away.
That’s a big lift for the Tarbabes after they waited six games last season before having their starting quarterback available.
“We have our quarterback already ready to go,” Compton coach Calvin Bryant said at Hub City League media day. “The other guys are already ready to go. We’ve been working really hard this offseason. I think our guys are really, really ready to go.”
One of those players is Sacramento State commit Edward Rivera, who has been eager to get back on the field after sitting out six games following his transfer to Compton last season.
A year ago, Compton had to rely heavily on its running game early in the season. With its offensive pieces available from the start this time around, the Tarbabes are eager to show more of their playbook in the opener.
For Jordan, the Panthers enter the season with their third head coach in three years. Former NFL running back Rashaad Penny takes over the program and will look to get Jordan off to a strong start.
Sama’Jay Jackson will be a key figure for the Panthers’ offense as they adjust to a new system with a young roster. Jackson gives junior quarterback Caydyn Hampton a threat on the outside.
Defensively, the Panthers will lean on their linebacking corps of Phoenix White, Rudy Lopez and Keith Brooks as they try to slow down the Tarbabes’ offense.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Thursday.
