Rival QBs Unite as All-Stars: Nuttall and Paisano Shine

In a memorable display of camaraderie, quarterbacks Jake Nuttall of Saugus High School and Jacob Paisano of Hart High School came together as teammates for one last time at the Los Angeles Rams All-Star Senior Bowl held on December 20, 2025, at Simi Valley High School. This event marked a significant moment for the two players, who have transitioned from childhood teammates to fierce high school rivals in the Santa Clarita Valley football scene.

The rivalry between Hart and Saugus has been a defining feature of the local sports culture for decades. Nuttall and Paisano, who once played together for the Saugus Spartans in youth football, reflected on their shared journey as they took the field once more. “Jacob is a heck of a player. We have great respect for each other,” Nuttall stated. “It was pretty fun to suit up alongside him again as we did in middle school.”

Both athletes have made significant marks at their respective schools. Nuttall, a standout for the Centurions, broke multiple career records and concluded his high school tenure by leading Saugus to its first CIF semifinals appearance since 2017. He was recognized as the Foothill League’s offensive player of the year for the 2025 season. “Anytime you get selected to represent your school and city, it’s a great honor,” Nuttall said, expressing his excitement about joining the all-star game.

Paisano, on the other hand, has played a crucial role in revitalizing the Hart football program. Under head coach Jake Goossen-Brown, he led the Hawks to their first playoff win since 2019 and achieved back-to-back playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025. He earned first team all-Foothill League honors, signifying his impact on the team. “It was definitely a cool experience and an honor being able to represent Hart and SCV in the all-star game,” Paisano remarked.

The all-star game featured other notable players from the Foothill League, including Saugus running back Ty Hall and Golden Valley’s Evan Nye and Damian Ozuna. Nuttall and Paisano’s reunion on the field was a nostalgic reminder of their early days in youth football, where they built a bond that transcended their high school rivalry. “We definitely have a strong relationship on and off the field,” Paisano said. “Being able to suit up again and practice as teammates was a cool feeling, bringing back the good ol’ days on the Spartans.”

Throughout their high school careers, the matches between Hart and Saugus have been thrilling. In 2024, the teams combined for over 90 points in a dramatic shootout, while in 2025, Hart handed Saugus a defeat that spoiled their perfect start to the season. Nuttall also praised Hall, his longtime teammate, saying, “We’ve been through the worst together from 0-10 to each having phenomenal careers alongside each other. It was extremely great to share the field together one final time.”

As the game concluded, both quarterbacks expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to represent their schools one last time. Nuttall fondly recalled his time at Saugus, stating, “I’ll forever be grateful to the Saugus community for the continuous support throughout the years.” Paisano echoed similar sentiments about Hart, emphasizing the significance of the memories created during his time with the team.

The Los Angeles Rams All-Star Senior Bowl served as a fitting farewell for these talented athletes, allowing them to celebrate their achievements and friendship beyond the competitive nature of high school sports.