Walnut, Calif. – As the 2025 college football season draws near, Mt. San Antonio College is gearing up for what promises to be a competitive and compelling year on the field. Coming off a deep postseason run that ended in a state championship loss, the Mounties are embracing a fresh start — and a fresh roster — with the kind of intensity and hunger that defines our storied program.

"This is going to be an exciting year," said Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator Cameron Deen. "We're a young team — we don't return a lot of starters. But we have a good nucleus of guys who were role players last year, and they understand the standard we expect them to abide by every day. They're doing a great job of leading and getting that message to the transfers and freshmen."

The challenge of building a new roster in the fast-paced world of junior college football is nothing new to Deen, who finds inspiration in the yearly cycle of growth and development. "It's why I enjoy coaching — that challenge of the two-year college. Every year, things kind of get washed away and you have to rebuild," he said. "So I ask myself — how good of a coach am I going to be to get these guys to comprehend what we're trying to achieve?"

Despite the turnover, Deen believes this team has the right tools — especially at key skill positions — to contend. Leading the charge on offense will be returning wide receivers Devon Anderson and Bronseman Davis. Anderson, who broke his collarbone in the opening game last season after a blistering start, is eager to make a full-season impact. "Devon had six catches for over 100 yards before he got hurt," Deen recalled. "We were anticipating him being a big part of last year, but now he's back and ready."

Joining Anderson is Davis, a rising sophomore who flashed big potential late last season. Additionally, the wide receiver room has been bolstered by LSU transfer RJ Willis, who's bringing both talent and maturity. "RJ has that quiet confidence — tells the guys what's expected at the next level. He's been doing a good job getting the group in line."

The Mounties are expected to be especially strong in the run game this season, with a talented trio of running backs ready to make their mark. Damien Smith, who gray-shirted last year, will join newcomers Aiden Ramos and Devyn Turner in the backfield. "I think we have three special running backs," Deen said. "Our O-line is going to get it done, and that should get us some good matchups on the perimeter."

The offensive line will be anchored by returning sophomore John Rodriguez, who saw action at both guard and center last season and is projected to start at center this year. He'll be joined by key additions Harryone Maileoi and Maika Matelau, forming a unit tasked with setting the tone up front in both the run game and pass protection.

At quarterback, Hunter Herrera — a transfer from El Camino — is expected to take the reins, bringing poise and a strong understanding to the offense. Daunte Bell, who transferred from ELAC, is another veteran presence in the position. "Both guys have experience and are showing they're ready to lead," Deen said. "I'm excited for them to prove they can play at the four-year level and show me they can be the go-to guy."

While Deen's focus is on offense, he's taken note of the defensive unit's growth during camp. "They're super fast, super active. They get after us in practice and have been making our offense stronger every day," he said.

In preparation for the season, Mt. SAC has dedicated practices to mastering game-critical scenarios. "We've spent the last two weeks getting ready for third downs, red zone and two-minute drills," Deen explained. "That's where good teams separate from great teams — being efficient in those moments that football presents. Score more touchdowns than field goals. Get the ball back to the offense. Be elite on special teams."

With a schedule that starts against Cerritos and features early tests against San Diego Mesa and El Camino — both playoff teams from last season — the Mounties will have little time to ease into the season. "Our philosophy is that the next game is the most important," said Deen. "But this three-week stretch will be a proving ground for us and a chance to see where we need to improve before going into conference. I'm excited for the challenges and the opportunities."

As for the team's goals? Deen is clear and direct: "Win the first game. Win the first game of conference. Win our bowl game. If we do those things, we'll probably make the playoffs. Then the next goal is winning the conference — and from there, be one of the last teams playing."

That final step — winning a state title — is personal for Deen. "As a player here, I got to that state championship game and lost. Then we got there again last year and lost," he said. "That's the goal I've set for myself — to win it all. That's what the Mountie greats are remembered for. I want to be in that group and part of the conversation. I want to get one done for Coach Jastrab, the staff, and the administration."

Asked what makes Mt. SAC different from other programs, Deen pointed to the culture and the daily grind. "It's the passion we bring every day. We compete. We go full speed. Tuesday through Thursday is basically a simulation of Saturday nights," he said. "That breeds what we call 'Sac Dawgs.' If we go as hard as we can in practice, it should make Saturdays feel easy."

With a relentless work ethic, emerging talent, and a clear sense of purpose, Mt. SAC football enters the 2025 season ready to compete at the highest level.

The Mounties will kick off their season on Saturday, August 30 at 6:00 p.m. with a road matchup against Cerritos College. Their home opener follows on Saturday, September 6 at 6:00 p.m. against San Diego Mesa. That night will also mark "City of Walnut Night" at Hilmer Lodge Stadium. To show appreciation for the local community, adult Walnut residents will receive free admission with proof of residency.

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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.