As the high school football season reaches its midpoint, predictions for the upcoming league championships are in full swing. With most teams returning from their bye weeks, the competition in the San Gabriel Valley is about to heat up. According to sports analyst Fred Robledo, an overview of the 12 leagues involving San Gabriel Valley teams highlights favorites and potential playoff contenders.
Almont League Predictions
In the Almont League, despite holding a record of 2-3, Schurr High School is considered the favorite. Their challenging schedule and past dominance over league opponents bolster their standing. Meanwhile, San Gabriel (5-0) enters league play with momentum after a strong win against El Monte. The competition for third and fourth place is expected to be fierce between Alhambra (4-1) and Bell Gardens (3-2).
Prediction: 1. Schurr, 2. San Gabriel, 3. Bell Gardens, 4. Alhambra
Angelus League Insights
The Angelus League presents a complex scenario. Though Cathedral High School is currently 1-4, they were the pre-season favorites and are set to bolster their lineup with returning players. Paraclete (4-1) enters with a winning record and looks promising. While St. Paul (0-5) and St. Francis (0-5) have struggled, their tough schedules may lead to unexpected outcomes.
Prediction: 1. Cathedral, 2. Paraclete, 3. St. Paul, 4. St. Francis
Baseline League Competitors
Defending champions Damien High School (5-0) have established themselves as serious contenders, led by senior quarterback Isaiah Arriaza. They face a challenge from Rancho Cucamonga (1-4), which has experienced close losses against strong opponents. Chino Hills (3-2) and Etiwanda (2-3) will also be vying for playoff positions.
Prediction: 1. Damien, 2. Rancho Cucamonga, 3. Chino Hills, 4. Etiwanda
Del Rio League Outlook
In the Del Rio League, La Serna (3-3) is a clear favorite, especially following their recent victory over Edison. California (3-3) shows notable improvement, while El Rancho (3-2) and Whittier (5-1) are also in contention. Santa Fe (1-5) has struggled considerably after last year’s second-place finish.
Prediction: 1. La Serna, 2. El Rancho, 3. California, 4. Whittier
Epsilon League Predictions
Only one team from the San Gabriel Valley, La Habra (4-1), is competing in the Epsilon League, where they face tough opponents like Crean Lutheran (5-0) and Huntington Beach (4-1). Despite being ranked third in the area, La Habra will need to navigate a challenging landscape to secure a playoff spot.
Prediction: 1. Crean Lutheran, 2. Huntington Beach, 3. La Habra, 4. Laguna Hills
Hacienda League Contenders
The Hacienda League has seen a significant turnaround, with Los Altos (5-0) emerging as a favorite after a strong start. Chino (1-4) has faced tough competition but remains a contender. Covina (3-2) and South Hills (2-3) will be pivotal in determining playoff standings.
Prediction: 1. Los Altos, 2. Chino, 3. Covina, 4. Diamond Bar
Montview and Miramonte League Updates
The Montview League appears to favor Nogales (2-3) with Ontario (3-2) posing the greatest threat. Meanwhile, in the Miramonte League, La Puente (3-2) stands out as the most experienced team, while the others, including Duarte (3-2) and Bassett (3-1-1), will compete for playoff spots.
Prediction: Montview: 1. Nogales, 2. Ontario, 3. Wilson, 4. Sierra Vista; Miramonte: 1. La Puente, 2. Duarte, 3. Bassett, 4. Ganesha
Mission League and Beyond
In the Mission League, Bishop Amat (3-2) is expected to improve significantly from last season’s performance. Sierra Canyon (5-0) is the clear favorite, while Notre Dame (3-2) and Chaminade (2-3) are expected to put up a strong fight.
Prediction: 1. Sierra Canyon, 2. Notre Dame, 3. Bishop Amat, 4. Serra
The Rio Hondo League appears to be a two-horse race between La Canada (6-0) and Monrovia (5-0). However, Monrovia’s loss of sophomore quarterback Jesse Saucedostrong> due to injury may give La Canada an edge.
Prediction: 1. La Canada, 2. Monrovia, 3. South Pasadena, 4. San Marino
In the Sierra League, Charter Oak (4-1) is poised to challenge Bonita (2-3) for the title, with notable performances from quarterback Corin Berry.
Prediction: 1. Charter Oak, 2. Bonita, 3. Claremont, 4. Colony
Lastly, in the Valle Vista League, defending champion Northview (4-1) remains a favorite, but Baldwin Park (4-1) and Alta Loma (4-1) also have valid claims for the title.
Prediction: 1. Northview, 2. Baldwin Park, 3. Alta Loma, 4. San Dimas
As the season progresses, the predictions will continue to evolve, and teams will battle for crucial playoff positions in the coming weeks. The excitement of high school football in the San Gabriel Valley is just beginning.
