Santa Margarita Battles De La Salle in CIF State Football Finals
Santa Margarita and De La Salle are set to clash in the CIF State Football Championships Open Division finals. This highly anticipated matchup will take place at Saddleback College on Saturday at 8 p.m. The event promises to showcase two of California’s premier high school football programs.
CIF State Football Championships Overview
- Matchup: Santa Margarita (10-3) vs. De La Salle (12-0)
- Date and Time: Saturday at 8 p.m.
- Venue: Saddleback College
- Tickets: Ranging from $6.25 to $16.75, available on gofan.co
- Parking: $5
Santa Margarita’s Journey
Santa Margarita is making their first appearance in a state final since winning the Division I title in 2011. Under the guidance of first-year coach Carson Palmer, a Heisman Trophy winner, the Eagles have displayed formidable skills in the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. They have outscored their opponents 94-22 across three games.
Ranked second nationally by HSratings.com, Santa Margarita recorded a decisive 42-7 victory against Centennial in the final match. Senior wide receiver Trent Mosley, committed to USC, starred with 10 receptions for 293 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback Trace Johnson, set to join Tulane, completed 16 of 25 passes for 386 yards and four touchdowns.
Defensively, Santa Margarita’s team has maintained impressive statistics, allowing an average of just 12.2 points per game. Their defense shone in the last final, recording seven sacks, with standout lineman Isaia Vandermade contributing three. Key linebackers include Leki Holani (98 tackles, Sacramento State signee) and Dash Fifita (95 tackles, Arizona signee).
De La Salle’s Legacy
De La Salle heads into their 18th state final, with a focus on reclaiming their dominance within California high school football. This season marks their second consecutive appearance in the Open Division finals. Last year, they faced Mater Dei but lost 37-15.
The Spartans are currently ranked seventh in California by HSratings and have improved on both sides of the ball this season. Their offensive strategy, characterized by a veer attack, features multiple running backs, including seasoned player Jaden Jefferson, who has 1,048 rushing yards and is also a committed recruit to North Carolina.
Brady Smith (793 yards) and Duece Jones-Drew, son of NFL legend Maurice Jones-Drew, are other prominent players in their rushing lineup. Jefferson’s speed is particularly notable as he is the reigning state 100-meter champion.
Expert Insights and Predictions
Mark Tennis, editor and publisher of Cal-Hi Sports, notes De La Salle’s potential struggle against Santa Margarita, labeling them as the underdogs in this match. Jason Negro, head coach of St. John Bosco, emphasizes the critical matchups between the defenses of both teams. Santa Margarita’s ability to counter De La Salle’s unique offensive scheme will be crucial.
Many analysts are predicting a close game, with a nod towards Santa Margarita’s experience and battle-tested lineup. The Eagles look poised to claim a ninth consecutive state title for the Trinity League, writing a remarkable chapter in Carson Palmer’s inaugural season as head coach.
