The Millikan Rams are set to open the 2026‑27 football season at home against Huntington Beach, a matchup that promises fireworks under the lights of DeHaven Stadium.
A fresh start under Pellum
Coach Romeo Pellum unveiled a bounce‑back plan after a disappointing 2025 campaign, emphasizing chemistry, leadership and a renewed focus on fundamentals.
The Rams will face an Oilers team that enters the game as heavy favorites, with HSRatings.com projecting a 92 % chance of victory and the result likely to shape CIF‑SS playoff positioning.
At the heart of Millikan’s offense is sophomore quarterback Jonah Tuaniga, who emerged from a freshman season marked by transfer ineligibility and now holds the starting role unchallenged.
Tuaniga’s athleticism extends beyond the gridiron; he previously competed with the USA Volleyball youth team and is regarded as one of the nation’s top two‑sport athletes.
Veteran receiver Jay Williams, a Kansas commit, has praised Tuaniga’s growth, noting a seamless connection that could open up the Rams’ passing attack.
Alongside Williams, running back Ryan Carter brings speed and power, giving the offense multiple threats that the Oilers’ defense must prepare for.
The defensive side of the ball will need to contain a potent attack led by Oilers quarterback Brady Edmunds, an Ohio State commit, as well as former Poly standouts Dylin Bruce and Skylar Robinson, both drawing collegiate offers.
Transfer receiver Auden Taufa is the only player cleared for competition so far, while two projected starting linemen remain pending approval, adding a layer of uncertainty to the line.
Off the field, the Rams’ season is sponsored by Long Beach Poly alumni Wendell ‘WoWo’ Moe, Jr., Tyson Ruffins, Brian Ramsey and the law firm TLD Law, underscoring community support.
With a blend of experienced leadership and youthful talent, Millikan hopes to translate its offseason work into a strong start that could redefine its postseason outlook.