The CIF Southern Section football playoffs are set to kick off this Friday, November 7, showcasing several Orange County teams in crucial first-round matchups. Five teams, including Corona del Mar, Tustin, Dana Hills, Aliso Niguel, and Beckman, are prepared to take the field in hopes of advancing in the playoffs.
Corona del Mar vs. Murrieta Valley
Corona del Mar (9-1) will face Murrieta Valley (7-3) at 7 PM. Despite suffering a setback last week in overtime against Yorba Linda, Corona del Mar has had a strong season, winning its first nine games. Quarterback Brady Annett is a leading candidate for All-County honors, having thrown for 2,297 yards and 34 touchdowns. His key targets include Garrett James, who has 878 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, and Dorsett Stecker with 673 yards and 13 touchdowns. On defense, Cash Pearsall stands out with 80 tackles and four interceptions. Murrieta Valley, finishing second in the Big West-Upper League, will rely on Jeremiah Watson, who has rushed for 1,429 yards and 21 touchdowns, although he did not play last week against Roosevelt.
Tustin vs. Rancho Cucamonga
Tustin (9-1) heads to face Rancho Cucamonga (7-3) at 7 PM as well. After dominating the Delta League and defeating Capistrano Valley, Tustin looks to continue its success. Sophomore quarterback Ayden Edwards has impressive stats with 2,003 passing yards and 21 touchdowns. Running back Elijah Robinson has been a standout in league play, achieving multiple games over 100 rushing yards. Defensively, Jeremiah Williams leads in sacks, while Khalil Terry and Tim Ioane each have four interceptions to their names. Rancho Cucamonga, champions of the Baseline League, features quarterback Jacob Chambers, a Fresno State commit, who has thrown for 1,742 yards and 18 touchdowns, supported by junior Nathaniel Mensah, who leads the defense with five interceptions.
Dana Hills vs. Aquinas
Dana Hills (9-1) will compete against Aquinas (9-1) at 7 PM in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Dana Hills shared the Foxtrot League title with Laguna Beach and is making a significant leap from Division 6 to Division 3 in this playoff season. Sophomore quarterback Carter Anderson has thrown for 2,171 yards and 28 touchdowns, and Radley Geiss has contributed with 116 rushing yards per game and 15 touchdowns. On the defensive side, Micah Langohr has recorded 13 sacks. Aquinas enters the playoffs after dominating the Ironwood League, averaging 42 points per game and featuring quarterback Charlie Reyes, who has achieved 24 touchdowns against just three interceptions.
Aliso Niguel vs. Millikan
Aliso Niguel (7-3) will take on Millikan (3-7) at 7 PM. Aliso Niguel”s losses have come against teams in Division 3, showcasing their tough competition. Quarterback Carter Vestermark averages 226 passing yards per game with 22 touchdown passes, while the Wolverines boast speedy receivers Dane Malloy and Hunter Hagins. On defense, Carson Etnire leads with four interceptions and Cash Jackson has made a notable impact with five sacks. Millikan, having received an automatic qualifying spot from the Moore League, is looking to rebound after earlier forfeits this season. Key player Jude Nelson has 824 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, while freshman quarterback Jonah Tuaniga has thrown for 29 touchdowns this season.
Beckman vs. La Mirada
Beckman (7-3) faces La Mirada (4-6) at 7 PM. After a shaky start to the season at 1-3, Beckman rallied to win its last six games, clinching the outright Lambda League title. Quarterback Noah Nam has averaged 173 passing yards per game, with 16 touchdowns and only three interceptions. Running back Makhi Czaykowski has been a powerhouse, rushing for over 1,030 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns, while also leading the team in receiving touchdowns. Defensively, Nathan Garcia has tallied 93 tackles and Xavier Musselman-Cano has contributed with five interceptions. La Mirada, finishing fourth in the Gateway League, presents a challenge, with Ismael Garcia leading their rushing attack.
As these Orange County teams gear up for the playoffs, fans can expect thrilling matchups filled with talent and determination.
