Bishop Gorman shuts out Faith Lutheran 53-0 to set state title rematch

Bishop Gorman defeated Faith Lutheran 53-0 Friday night at Fertitta Field to advance to the Open Division state championship. The Gaels, who hold a 10-1 record, will face No. 3-seed Losee on Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. at Allegiant Stadium. This contest marks the sixth consecutive state title game for Gorman, which seeks its 16th title in the last 17 seasons.

The decisive moment arrived on the first play of the game. Quarterback Ace Amina connected with Aizen Costales-Torres on a 51-yard touchdown pass down the right sideline. That score set the tone for a dominant first half in which Gorman scored on all seven possessions.

Amina completed 10 of 12 passes for 190 yards and five touchdowns before halftime. He found four different receivers for scores, with Costales-Torres catching two passes for 74 yards. The Crusaders, ranked No. 2, managed only 20 yards of total offense in the first half. Defenders Kamil Loud and Lukas Carstensen each recorded interceptions for Gorman in the opening period.

The Gaels built a 47-0 lead by halftime. The score included a 13-yard reception by Costales-Torres, a 15-yard rush by freshman Trey Washington, and a 39-yard pass to Brystin Sansano. Amina added a 24-yard score for Azavier McDaniel, but a dropped extra point kept the running clock from engaging immediately. It went into effect after Gabe Jaime caught an 11-yard touchdown and Noah Cole rushed for 4 yards.

Coach Brent Browner credited the team’s preparation for the result. He noted that the staff emphasized accountability and serious play rather than easing up against a familiar opponent. Browner said the coaches kept the players focused on expectations throughout the week.

Faith Lutheran, which is 6-5, will play for the 5A state title on Nov. 20 at Allegiant Stadium. The Crusaders, making their fourth straight appearance in a state championship game, will face Bishop Manogue. Manogue defeated Spanish Springs 48-22 in the 5A Northern Region final Friday night.

The NIAA modified the playoff format following the departure of 30 CCSD programs to independent status. Under the new rules, the top two 5A Southern teams remain eligible to compete for a state title because only three 5A Southern teams qualify for NIAA playoffs.