Samohi Vikings Dominate John Burroughs High in 35-9 Victory at Memorial Stadium

BURBANK, CA – On the evening of September 5, 2025, the santa monica high school (Samohi) Vikings football team traveled to Burbank to face off against the John Burroughs High School Bears at Memorial Stadium, emerging victorious with a commanding 35-9 win. The Vikings set the tone early, establishing a lead that they maintained throughout the game, showcasing their strength and preparation following a challenging 2024 season.

Coming off a season-opening 35-0 shutout against Kaimuki High School in Hawaii, the Samohi Vikings, under the leadership of Coach Carter Paysinger, were determined to build on their momentum. The team's offseason efforts, which began in January, paid dividends as they displayed improved physicality and resilience. Coach Paysinger, a respected figure in Southern California's high school football community, had emphasized the team's focus on strength training to overcome the injury-plagued 4-6 record of the previous season. "We're a lot stronger than we were last year," Paysinger noted in a recent interview. "The work that the kids put into the offseason is really showing."

The game began with the Vikings asserting dominance early, capitalizing on their offensive and defensive strategies to build a substantial lead. While specific play-by-play details of the game were not widely reported, the final score of 35-9 reflects Samohi's ability to control both sides of the ball. The Vikings' early lead likely stemmed from their strengthened offensive line and a defense that has been a focal point of improvement after last season's challenges.

The atmosphere at Memorial Stadium was notably sportsmanlike, with both teams and their supporters maintaining a polite and civil demeanor throughout the contest. Fans from both Santa Monica and Burbank filled the stands, creating an energetic yet respectful environment that highlighted the best of high school football spirit.

Although detailed statistics from the game were not yet available, the Vikings' performance aligns with their goal of rebounding from last year's setbacks. The team's roster, bolstered by returning players and new talent, showed promise in executing Coach Paysinger's vision for a revitalized program. Meanwhile, John Burroughs High, known for its competitive spirit, fought hard but was unable to overcome Samohi's early advantage and consistent pressure.

Cheerleading team kept the crowd entertained during halftime.

The victory improves the Vikings' 2025 season record as they continue their campaign in the competitive California high school football landscape. For Samohi, this win serves as a statement of their growth and determination to compete at a higher level this year. The Bears, on the other hand, will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup, drawing on the experience of playing a strong opponent like the Vikings.

As the season progresses, the Samohi Vikings will aim to maintain their momentum, with Coach Paysinger's leadership and the team's offseason preparation setting the stage for what they hope will be a successful 2025 campaign. Fans can follow the Vikings' schedule and updates on platforms like MaxPreps for the latest on their journey through the season.[](https://www.maxpreps.com/ca/santa-monica/santa-monica-vikings/football/schedule/)

*Note: Specific game details such as individual player performances or exact scoring plays were not found in available sources at the time of writing.*