URGENT UPDATE: The Bay Area high school football playoffs delivered thrilling action this weekend, with several teams securing their spots in championship games. Key victories reshaped the landscape of local high school football, and fans are buzzing with excitement for the upcoming finals.
In the Central Coast Section (CCS) Open Division, top-seeded Archbishop Riordan dominated No. 2 Serra with a decisive 33-13 victory at San Jose City College. This win marks a triumphant return for the Crusaders, who have been on a quest for supremacy in the CCS. Christian Babcock has more details on this thrilling matchup.
Meanwhile, in the Northern California Section (NCS) Open Division, No. 1 De La Salle edged out No. 2 Pittsburg with a narrow score of 24-17. The Spartans’ defense proved crucial, securing their 33rd consecutive NCS title despite being outplayed in possession and first downs by the Pirates. North Carolina commit Jaden Jefferson shone with 106 rushing yards and a touchdown. Nathan Canilao reported live from Pleasant Hill on this tightly contested game.
In the CCS Division II, No. 1 St. Ignatius crushed No. 4 Menlo School with a staggering 42-6 scoreline. Quarterback Caedon Afsharipour threw five touchdown passes, leading the Wildcats to their third championship game in four years. The defense also shined, forcing three turnovers. This victory sets up an exciting matchup against the winner of Saturday’s game between Santa Teresa and Sacred Heart Cathedral.
NCS Division II saw No. 2 Monte Vista triumph over No. 3 California with a 35-21 victory. Senior quarterback Ian Ondricek showcased his skills with two touchdowns, while junior Justin Grisham contributed significantly on the ground. Monte Vista looks to capture its first NCS crown since 2016 next week.
In NCS Division III, No. 3 El Cerrito continued its comeback season by defeating No. 2 Rancho Cotate 26-9. The Gauchos, after a tumultuous previous season, are now poised to compete for the D-III championship.
NCS Division IV featured a high-scoring affair where No. 1 Branham edged No. 5 Half Moon Bay with a score of 56-45. Michael Murphy led the Bruins with three touchdowns, helping Branham advance to the championship game.
In another thrilling Division IV matchup, No. 1 Hayward triumphed over No. 4 Granada with a solid 41-18 score, as Maurice Hall and Lamont McDonald led the ground game. The Farmers, boasting a record of 9-3, will face off against Miramonte in the finals.
Miramonte, ranked No. 3, secured a spot in the final with a dominant 20-0 shutout against No. 7 Redwood. The defense, highlighted by strong performances from Tres Buster and Henry Hunt, proved impenetrable in this crucial game.
In NCS Division V, No. 3 Bishop O’Dowd outmatched No. 2 St. Helena with a commanding 49-26 victory. The Dragons showcased a balanced attack with contributions from multiple players, including a pick-six from OC Lehner. O’Dowd will now face Fortuna or St. Bernard’s next week for the title.
Finally, No. 2 Piedmont made history with a 28-10 win over No. 3 Willits, demonstrating resilience after nearly losing their program just five years ago. Coach Jordan Seiden expressed pride in the team’s journey as they prepare to face top-seed Middletown for the championship.
As the playoffs continue, fans should stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the Bay Area high school football scene. With championship games on the horizon, the excitement is palpable.
