CIF Southern Section Football Playoffs Quarterfinals Preview

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. — The CIF Southern Section football playoffs are heating up as seven Orange County teams prepare for their quarterfinal matches on Friday, Nov. 14, starting at 7 p.m.

San Clemente (7-4) will visit Vista Murrieta (8-3) after showing strong defensive skills last week against Beaumont, forcing five turnovers and intercepting three passes. Quarterback Preston Beck threw four touchdown passes, all to Thomas Alexander, as the Tritons continue their playoff run.

On the other side, Vista Murrieta will compete without Oregon commit Bryson Beaver, but last week’s 36-31 victory over Damien showcased a strong performance from Aiden Williams, who rushed for 233 yards and two touchdowns.

The Dana Hills (10-2) team will face Palos Verdes (8-3). Dana Hills made headlines last week, overcoming a 20-point deficit against Aquinas. Players Jack Norman and Trevor Blackmore exhibited stellar performances, while Palos Verdes won its last match against Valencia with quarterback Ryan Rakowski throwing three touchdowns.

Edison (6-5) is gearing up for a tough matchup against Inglewood (6-5) after Sam Thomson threw three touchdowns in a win over Huntington Beach. Inglewood’s running game has been noteworthy, featuring Semaj Welch, who rushed for 136 yards with two touchdowns last week.

The evening will also showcase Great Oak (8-3) versus Villa Park (7-4), where Villa Park managed to end Westlake’s undefeated season last week. Coy Collins shone with three touchdowns, while Great Oak aims to maintain its winning streak.

La Habra (8-3) will take on Cathedral (6-5). La Habra displayed a strong running game last week highlighted by Kevika Mata’Utia-Martinez’s two-touchdown performance, while Cathedral’s Jaden Jefferson dazzled with both passing and rushing touchdowns.

Finally, La Serna (8-3) confronts Aliso Niguel (8-3) after both teams secured slim victories in their respective matches. Aliso Niguel’s defense has been key, receiving support from Parker Comerford, while La Serna’s quarterback Grady Long will aim to leverage his experience.

These matchups promise exciting high school football as teams battle for a chance to move closer to the championship. Expect an action-packed night with players to watch making crucial impacts on their teams’ fates.