The CIF Southern Section football playoffs are heating up as seven Orange County teams gear up for their quarterfinal matchups this Friday. These contests promise exciting clashes, featuring teams with strong offensive players and dynamic defenses.
CIF-SS Football Playoffs: Quarterfinal Previews for 7 OC Teams
San Clemente vs. Vista Murrieta
Kickoff is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. San Clemente (7-4) aims to build on its impressive first-round victory, where it forced five turnovers against Beaumont. Quarterback Preston Beck contributed significantly, throwing four touchdowns, all to standout receiver Thomas Alexander.
Vista Murrieta (8-3) is without quarterback Bryson Beaver but managed to defeat Damien 36-31 in its first game. Running back Aiden Williams was a key player, rushing for 233 yards and two touchdowns.
- Player to watch: Patrick Norman (San Clemente), leading in tackles and essential for stopping Williams.
Dana Hills vs. Palos Verdes
Also at 7 p.m., Dana Hills (10-2) faces Palos Verdes (8-3). Dana Hills mounted a comeback against Aquinas, overcoming a 20-point deficit. Jack Norman shined with three touchdown receptions, while Carter Anderson had a pair of touchdown passes.
Palos Verdes won last year’s Division 5 championship. They advanced by scoring 28 points in the second half against Valencia, with Ryan Rakowski throwing for three touchdowns.
- Player to watch: Thompson Foulger (Dana Hills), a defensive powerhouse with four interceptions this season.
Edison vs. Inglewood
Edison (6-5) takes on Inglewood (6-5) at 7 p.m. Sam Thomson showcased his skills last week with three touchdown passes. The Chargers’ defense held Ohio State commit Brady Edmunds to just 181 yards.
Inglewood defeated Capo Valley 40-16 despite missing its starting quarterback. They rushed for an astonishing 395 yards with multiple players finding the end zone.
- Player to watch: Devyn Blake (Edison), a key blocker and defensive force against Inglewood’s run attack.
Great Oak vs. Villa Park
The match between Great Oak (8-3) and Villa Park (7-4) commences at 7 p.m. Villa Park ended Westlake’s undefeated run last week, with Coy Collins scoring three touchdowns.
Great Oak easily defeated Cajon in its opener, highlighting Idaho State commit Ryder Smith’s three rushing touchdowns.
- Player to watch: Coy Collins (Villa Park), known for his explosive running ability.
Cathedral vs. La Habra
La Habra (8-3) hosts Cathedral (6-5) at 7 p.m. La Habra dominated El Modena, thanks to a powerful run game led by Kevika Mata’Utia-Martinez.
Catholic Cathedral won their first contest with a strong performance from Jaden Jefferson, accounting for five total touchdowns.
- Player to watch: DJ Mitchell (La Habra), a dual-threat quarterback, essential for La Habra’s game strategy.
La Serna vs. Aliso Niguel
La Serna (8-3) faces Aliso Niguel (8-3) at 7 p.m. Both teams had minimal scoring in their first-round victories, with Aliso Niguel narrowly defeating Millikan 7-6.
La Serna edged Lakewood 7-0, thanks to a solid rushing game and effective defense.
- Player to watch: Artin Hatamabad (Aliso Niguel), a crucial player in thwarting La Serna’s offense.
Troy vs. Rio Hondo Prep
Troy (10-1) meets Rio Hondo Prep (11-0) at Arroyo High, also at 7 p.m. Troy’s strong rushing game contributed to a decisive win against Orange, while Rio Hondo Prep focuses on a run-heavy attack utilizing Noah Penunuri.
- Player to watch: Noah Heathington (Troy), a key defensive player in this high-stakes matchup.
Anticipation builds as these seven Orange County teams prepare for their critical playoff games. Fans can expect thrilling football action this Friday.
