by James Tate

Head Coach: Andrew Fresques

2025 Record: Overall (5-6) Region (3-3)

Head Coach Andrew Fresques returns for his seventh season at the helm of the Northridge Knights, guiding a team that showed real toughness last fall. Their 2025 campaign included a statement road win over Pleasant Grove in the first round of the 6A playoffs.

This victory reinforced the Knights’ identity: disciplined, physical, and unafraid of big moments. As the 2026 season approaches, Northridge brings back a blend of veteran leadership and rising underclassmen who could push the program even further.

The Knights’ offense will once again revolve around senior quarterback Liam Fresques, who threw for 1,118 yards in just six games last season. His efficiency (70% completion percentage), command of the offense, and ability to stretch the field give Northridge a stabilizing force at the most important position.

“I believe that we have created a more well-rounded and selfless team this year,” Fresques said. “I think we have stronger relationships as a whole, and this will help us stay united on the field. We also are focusing on health because we had a lot of injury problems last year.”

Liam Fresques

With a full offseason to build chemistry with a talented supporting cast, Fresques enters his final year poised to deliver one of the strongest seasons of his career.

“One thing that I love about this team is that we have so much talent, I could name 30 more players to watch for,” Fresques said.

The biggest question, and perhaps the most important storyline of the Knights’ preseason, is identifying a lead ball carrier. Northridge rotated backs throughout 2025, but this fall they’ll look for a true feature option or a combination of players who can handle the workload of Region 5 play. Sophomore Roman Fitisemanu is the early favorite to emerge as a feature player. His elusiveness in space, natural feel for cut‑back lanes, and versatility in the passing game make him a dynamic weapon.

Fitisemanu’s ability to create explosive plays could give Northridge the balance it needs to keep defenses honest and open up the full playbook for Fresques. Look for junior Carson Murphy to play a key role in the backfield, at receiver and on special teams for the Knights. Fresques will have more options in senior receivers Brandon Little, Kyle Rawlings and Ryker Miller, all with the ability to keep the chains moving and be matchup problems for defenses.

Up front, the Knights have one of the most promising young linemen in the state. Sophomore Josh Iketau, standing 6‑foot‑4 and 315 pounds, has quickly risen into statewide recognition. His combination of size, strength, and mobility gives Northridge a true anchor on the offensive line, the kind of player who can change the complexion of both the run game and pass protection.

Iketau’s development will be central to the Knights’ offensive identity, and his presence provides a foundation few teams in the region can match. Joining Iketau will be holdover senior Quincy Lovett and junior Owen Ellsworth, giving the Knights experience, toughness and athleticism up front.

Carson Murphy

Players to watch this season on the line will be senior Lance Esplin and juniors Braxtyn Ryan, Jovanny Juarez, Case Campbell and Bridger Jones.

Defensively, the Knights must reload with key departures but have a strong group of defenders who will shape the unit’s identity. Murphy, Jack Hall, Rawlings, Colby Rhess, and Destin Smith give the Knights a mix of experience, athleticism, and positional versatility. This group’s ability to swarm to the football, create pressure, and limit big plays will determine how far Northridge climbs in the standings.

With many contributors returning and playing on both sides of the ball, the Knights have the continuity needed to build a defense capable of keeping them in every game. Fresques also shared his perspective on the competitive nature of Region 5, stressing the respect the team must have for each opponent.

“The biggest thing I tell my teammates about playing in Region 5 is the respect that we have to have for each of our opponents,” Fresques said. “They put in countless hours of work just like we did, and we can’t afford to take any games off if we want to meet our goals.”

The 2026 Northridge Knights are built around a proven quarterback, a rising sophomore class, and a coaching staff that has established a clear identity. They have star power in key positions, emerging talent ready to take the next step, and the confidence of a program that won a playoff game on the road last season. If they can solidify the run game and continue developing their young defensive core, Northridge has the pieces to be one of the most compelling teams in Region 1 this fall.

Key losses

Makai So’o (Utah State University)

Dontae Dyson (Utah State University)

photos courtesy of James Tate