Behind Nico Iamaleava, Warren takes down rival Downey 49-22

Warren's star studded offense pushed the Bears to a 49-22 win over rival Downey on Friday night. Warren improved to 7-1 overall and 3-0 in Gateway League play. Downey fell to 6-2 (2-1).

Warren quarterback Nico Iamaleava threw for 249 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. The Bears led 28-14 at the break and 49-14 after three quarters. 

"We had a great week of practice," Iamaleava told Bally Sports West reporter Anna Connelly postgame. "It was probably our best week of practice. I think all of the guys here have bought in to what we're trying to do."

Iamaleava, ranked the No. 3 prospect overall in the Class of 2023 by 247Sports, is committed to the University of Tennessee. 

Just before halftime, Iamaleava suffered a calf cramp and had to be helped off the field by teammates, but he returned for the third quarter and led Warren to three straight touchdown drives. 

Downey quarterback Aidan Chiles, a 2023 Oregon State commit, rushed for a 77-yard touchdown on the Vikings first possession of the game, but from there, Downey struggled on offense.

The game was physical and filled with penalties on both sides. 

"We knew the game was going to be chippy," Iamaleava said. "Our mindset was to just keep playing and don't do any dirty stuff."

Warren takes on La Mirada on the road in its next game. Downey plays Mayfair at home.