🏈 Pasadena Bulldogs Shine Under the Lights at SoFi Stadium

MADE IN DENA
4 days ago
3 min read

#6, Kahsahn White, kneels with is team in victory under the bright stadium lights at Thursday night's varsity football game at Sofi.

When the Pasadena High School Bulldogs took the field at SoFi Stadium on Thursday night, it wasn’t just another game — it was a statement. Under the same lights that crowned Super Bowl champions and will soon host the 2028 Olympics, our hometown heroes showed Southern California that Pasadena football still runs deep in pride, grit, and legacy.

And for one alumnus, it was personal.

MADE IN DENA Creator/Owner, Jason Hardin, prepares to head to Sofi in support of his Alma Mater

Hardin takes a selfie with CIF Referee, Frank, on field at SoFi Stadium

Jason Hardin, founder of MADE IN DENA and proud Pasadena High graduate, was invited by PHS Athletic Director Melodee Ulmer to join the coaching staff as his alma mater faced Crescenta Valley on the NFL stage. Hardin, known for representing his city wherever he goes, did it again — rocking a custom red-and-gray plaid suit tailored to match the Bulldogs’ uniforms. It wasn’t just style; it was spirit.

“When you’re DENA, you show up for DENA — especially when the youth are out here representing our city,” Hardin said.

Assistant Coach, Sion Robertson, watches his team get ready to score against CV.

The Game: Bulldogs Bring the Heat Early

The Bulldogs came out firing. Senior Kyle Robertson took the opening kickoff and exploded down the field for a touchdown, igniting Pasadena’s sideline and setting the tone early.

But that run doesn’t happen without the kind of play that doesn’t always show up in stat sheets. Sophomore #5, Daniel Freeman, delivered a monster pancake block that opened the lane for the score — the kind of hard-nosed, physical play that coaches love and fans remember.

DB/WR Sophomore #5, Daniel Freeman, shows out as MADE IN DENA's Player Of The Game against CV at SoFi Stadium

Freeman’s presence was felt all night. From that first hit to the final whistle, his toughness anchored the Bulldogs’ energy and helped them fend off a late Crescenta Valley rally in the fourth quarter.

“He brought the pain from the first play,” Hardin said. “You could feel his impact every down. He was the backbone of that win.”

Stats & Standouts

The Bulldogs’ offense clicked early thanks to quarterback Dutch Burbidge, who threw for 195 yards and a touchdown while rushing for another. Freshman Synncere Pitts added 61 total yards and two touchdowns, continuing to show why he’s one of Pasadena’s most promising young playmakers.

Pasadena High School's Quarterback, #9 Dutch Burbidge (photo by Pasadena Star News)

After racing to a 21-0 lead, Pasadena held on to seal a 27-21 victory — a sweet taste of redemption after last season’s loss to Crescenta Valley.

With the win, the Bulldogs improved to 5-3, winning four of their last five games and averaging over 40 points per outing during that stretch.

“We’re learning how to finish,” said Coach Ron Jones. “These are young guys playing in a big-time atmosphere, but they showed heart tonight.”

Playoffs on the Horizon & A Rivalry Awaits

Next up, Pasadena faces Arcadia in a crucial matchup that could lock in a CIF playoff berth. If the Bulldogs pull off the win, they’ll secure their postseason spot — just in time to return home for the city’s most storied tradition.

On Halloween Night, the Bulldogs head to the Rose Bowl to face their cross-town rivals, the John Muir Mustangs, in the annual Turkey Tussle — one of California’s oldest high school football rivalries.

The Turkey Tussle began in 1947 as a showdown between Pasadena City College and John Muir Junior College. Since 1954, it’s been the battle between Pasadena High and Muir — a Pasadena tradition that defines generations.

Bulldog and Mustang hoodies designed by MADE IN DENA

DENA Strong — Then, Now, and Always

From the opening kickoff at SoFi to the echoes of cheers from the Rose Bowl, Pasadena football is more than just a sport — it’s community, history, and pride.

For MADE IN DENA, it’s about representing that energy every day — in how we show up, support our youth, and celebrate our roots.

Because when DENA wins, we all win.

📸 Photos courtesy of Jason Hardin & MADE IN DENA

🛍️ Support local pride and culture at www.madeindena.com

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