Playoffs start Friday for 27 local teams
Sierra Canyon leads a deep field while Hart and Quartz Hill clash in a high-scoring first-round matchup.
By Lucas Sheridan ·
The CIF Southern Section football playoffs begin Friday night, pitting 27 local programs against opponents across 14 divisions. The first round excludes Division 1, but the rest of the bracket moves immediately, setting the stage for championship races that will unfold over the coming weeks.
Sierra Canyon enters the postseason as the top local seed in Division 1 after dominating the Mission League. The Trailblazers outscored their league rivals 259 to 13, a margin that underscores the depth of their roster. Their defense, anchored by Marcus Fakatou, Kasi Currie, and Brayden Tautolo, has been a primary driver of success this season.
Offensive progress has matched that defensive strength. Senior quarterback Demarco Hernandez completed 12 of 16 passes for 297 yards in the final league game against Bishop Amat. His improved pocket presence supports a receiving group that includes juniors Lance Brown and Sir Homer King Webb. Sierra Canyon will test that depth against Mission Viejo in the quarterfinals on Nov. 13.
One of the most anticipated local contests features Hart at Quartz Hill. Both teams rely on explosive offenses, though their styles differ. Hart leans on running back Matix Frithsmith and quarterback Camren Ketner, who have maintained momentum despite a recent loss to Valencia. Quartz Hill counters with senior quarterback Deshawn Laporte, who threw for 331 yards and five touchdowns in a 62-14 win over Lancaster.
Laporte, a commit to Delaware State, navigated a mandatory sit-out period after transferring from Burbank. His dual-threat ability forces Hart to manage edge containment while tracking multiple targets, including seniors Jaivyn Nelson and Tyler Hudson. The game will contrast Hart’s balanced running approach with Quartz Hill’s high-paced passing scheme.
Crespi presents another challenging opponent for any team in the bracket. The Eagles have already tested themselves against Notre Dame, St. Francis, and Oak Park. Their defense is led by linebacker Noah Sanchez, who has recorded 85 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and three interceptions. On offense, junior quarterback Chase Curren operates with support from sophomore wide receiver Harlem Bullock and junior running back Amir Morton.
Oaks Christian remains a potential spoiler in Division 5 after a rocky start. The Lions began Marmonte League play with a 0-5 record, including blowout losses to Serra and Notre Dame. Freshman quarterback Cody Bird emerged as a leader, guiding the team to a 42-35 double overtime victory over Simi Valley. If Oaks Christian beats Temecula and Simi Valley defeats El Dorado, the two rivals could meet on Nov. 13.
Viewpoint faces the longest travel route of the first round, taking a 119-mile bus trip to Hemet. The team fields a strong statistical profile, with senior running back Ben Burkin rushing for 694 yards and 11 touchdowns. Quarterback Magnus Merriman has thrown for 1,593 yards and 25 touchdowns, while the defense relies on senior Shane Anderson and sophomore Liam Stocker for turnovers and pressure.
