UPDATE: The Bay Area high school football playoffs produced thrilling matches this weekend, with several teams securing their spots in championship games. As of November 24, 2023, the action unfolded across various divisions, showcasing intense rivalries and unforgettable performances.
In a stunning display, No. 1 Archbishop Riordan decisively defeated No. 2 Serra with a score of 33-13 at San Jose City College. The Crusaders demonstrated their dominance, easing past their opponents in a much less dramatic encounter than their last meeting. This victory solidifies Riordan’s status as a formidable contender in the Central Coast Section (CCS).
Meanwhile, No. 1 De La Salle captured its 33rd consecutive NCS title after a nail-biting 24-17 win over No. 2 Pittsburg. Despite Pittsburg controlling time of possession and converting on crucial fourth downs, De La Salle’s defense held firm, stifling their high-scoring offense. North Carolina commit Jaden Jefferson was instrumental, rushing for 106 yards and a touchdown.
In CCS Division II, No. 1 St. Ignatius dominated No. 4 Menlo School with a commanding 42-6 victory, propelled by Caedon Afsharipour, who threw for five touchdowns. The Wildcats will face the winner of the Santa Teresa-Sacred Heart Cathedral match in the championship game.
The NCS Division II matchup saw No. 2 Monte Vista maintain control against No. 3 California, finishing at 35-21. Senior quarterback Ian Ondricek shone brightly with two touchdowns, and the Mustangs are keen to secure their first NCS title since 2016 next week.
Continuing their resurgence, No. 3 El Cerrito overwhelmed No. 2 Rancho Cotate with a score of 26-9. The Gauchos, having faced challenges in the previous season, are now set for the D-III championship, thanks to their strong defensive play and offensive execution.
In NCS Division IV, No. 1 Branham triumphed over No. 5 Half Moon Bay in a high-scoring affair, winning 56-45. Michael Murphy led the Bruins with three rushing touchdowns, and they will clash with Clayton Valley next week for the title.
The action continued in NCS Division IV, where No. 1 Hayward overpowered No. 4 Granada with a score of 41-18. Maurice Hall and Lamont McDonald were pivotal, combining for over 300 rushing yards and several touchdowns. Hayward’s defense limited Granada to just 215 total yards.
In a defensive showdown, No. 3 Miramonte shut out No. 7 Redwood 20-0, marking their first shutout of the season. Junior quarterback Lane Dalton delivered a strong performance, setting up crucial scores and leading the team to the NCS championship.
In Division V, No. 3 Bishop O’Dowd defeated No. 2 St. Helena 49-26. The Dragons showcased a balanced attack, featuring contributions from both offense and defense, including a pivotal pick-six by OC Lehner.
Finally, No. 2 Piedmont made history by advancing to the championship with a 28-10 win over No. 3 Willits. Coach Jordan Seiden celebrated the team’s remarkable turnaround, saying, “We’re making history!!” As Piedmont prepares to face No. 1 Middletown, who cruised past No. 5 Concord 48-8, the anticipation builds for next week’s championship games.
Stay tuned for more updates as the finals approach!
