Watch: Eli Dukes, Palma cruise past Mission Oak for 4-A State Championship

Eli Dukes, Thomas Nunes, and Notre Dame commit Logan Saldate spearheaded a 42-point effort from Palma's offense

Author:
Lance Smith, SBLive Sports
Updated:
Dec 12, 2023 4:23 PM EST
Original:
Dec 12, 2023

PASADENA, Calif. - Palma was in control every step of the way against Mission Oak on Friday in the CIF 4-A State Championship, winning 42-19 at Pasadena City College.

Freshman Eli Dukes was the top star of the night with over 200 yards on the ground and a career-high four rushing touchdowns. Thomas Nunes ran for a touchdown and threw a touchdown pass to 4-star Notre Dame commit Logan Saldate, and overall ran Palma's offense with precision. In addition to catching that 54-yard missile and a few other key passes around the sidelines, Saldate played a key role in taking the top off the defense and opening up Palma's ground game. Cayden Acosta added an interception for the Chieftains, who led 21-0 at halftime.

Mission Oak was led by quarterback Daniel Gonzalez. The senior completed 20 of 27 passes for 204 yards and two touchdowns, coming to Kenny Jackson and Achilles Sierra, and ran for a TD too.