League: Western
Head Coach: David Dunn (15th Season)
2024 Season: 12-2, CIF 1-AA State Champions
SDFN Preseason Ranking: #1
Week 1: 8/22 @ Punahou (Honolulu, HI)
The Lincoln Hornets enter the 2025 season as the undisputed kings of San Diego prep football, earning the preseason No. 1 ranking after a spectacular 12-2 campaign that culminated in their second state championship in three years. Under head coach David Dunn's steady leadership in his 15th season, the Hornets have established themselves as a dynasty, capturing state titles in 2022 and 2024, with their sights set on becoming the first team in CIF San Diego Section history to win back-to-back Open Division championships.
The End of the Akili Smith Jr. Era
The Hornets face one of their biggest challenges in years: replacing Oregon-bound quarterback Akili Smith Jr., who graduated after a legendary high school career. The 6-foot-5, 200-pound Smith Jr., son of former Oregon and Lincoln quarterback Akili Smith, was the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in the 2025 class and was named the 2024 Prep Pigskin Player of the Year. His departure leaves massive shoes to fill for a program that has relied heavily on elite quarterback play during their championship runs. Smith Jr. capped his career in spectacular fashion, leading Lincoln to victory over Pittsburg for the CIF 1-AA state title. Throughout his two seasons as the starting quarterback, he showcased incredible leadership and clutch performance in the biggest moments, setting the standard for whoever follows in his footsteps.
The Quarterback Battle
With Smith taking his talent to Oregon, the Hornets turn to a pair of talented options to lead their offense:
Jordan Roa - The returning backup who got valuable experience last season, including action in the state championship game. Roa has the advantage of knowing the system inside and out, plus he's gained crucial game experience in high-pressure moments. His familiarity with the program and teammates gives him an edge in the competition.
Kainan Manna - The wildcard in this battle is the Centennial High School (Peoria, Az) transfer who brings impressive credentials from Arizona. Manna threw for 4,546 yards and 43 touchdowns against just 5 interceptions over the past two years, suggesting he has the arm talent and accuracy to keep Lincoln's passing attack elite. He is also coming off leading his team to a 6A state football championship win last season. His arrival adds depth and competition to the position.
Defensive Anchor: Prince Tavizon
The Hornets' defense will be anchored by one of the nation's most elite prospects: linebacker Prince Tavizon. The 6-foot-3, 235-pound Oregon commit is a four-star EDGE prospect who recently reclassified from the 2027 class to the 2026 class, meaning he'll be a senior this year. As a member of the original 2027 cycle, Tavizon was the No. 107 overall prospect and No. 16 EDGE in the nation, according to Rivals. His presence gives Lincoln one of the most dominant defensive players in the entire section and a potential game-wrecker who can single-handedly change contests. With so many new faces on defense, Tavizon's leadership and playmaking ability will be crucial.
Key Returning Players
Offense:
RB Junior Curtis - One of the section's most dynamic running backs
WR Courtney Miller-Thompson - Explosive playmaker who can line up anywhere
WR King David Dunn - Coach Dunn's son and a talented receiver in his own right
WR Braylon Ross - Helix transfer who provides another weapon in Lincoln's deep receiving corps
OL Jesus Garcia - Experienced lineman who will help protect the new quarterback
OL-DL Jahmari Stoddard - Versatile two-way player who can contribute on both sides of the ball
OL Stephen Conde - Standout transfer from San Diego High who will add to a solid foundation
Defense:
LB Prince Tavizon - The Oregon commit and defensive anchor will be counted on heavily
DB Cammeron Purnell - Experienced defensive back who returns as one of only two defensive starters
DB Clarence Tucker - Secondary contributor who will need to step up in an expanded role
LB Seth Fanua - Mira Mesa transfer will provide depth and talent to a young defense
Key Players Lost to Graduation
The Hornets must replace significant talent from their championship team:
QB Akili Smith Jr. - 2024 Prep Pigskin Player of the Year and Oregon commit
RB Aden Jackson - Lincoln's leading rusher the last two seasons
WR Ty Olsen - San Diego Section's all-time career leader in receiving yards
WR Isaiah Grant - Reliable target in the passing game
DT Eugene Rice - 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, interior defensive line presence
OL Michael Fields - Experienced starting center
DL Journey Tala - Defensive line contributor
Area of Concern
Lincoln's biggest challenge will likely be on defense, where only two starters return from last year's championship team. Beyond Tavizon's elite presence, the Hornets will be breaking in mostly new faces on that side of the ball. This could be problematic early in the season as they face quality opponents and adjust to new schemes and responsibilities.
Home Sweet Hive
The Hornets will be back at Vic Player Stadium this season after practicing and playing on the road last year due to field renovations. This should provide a significant boost to the program's chemistry and preparation, as players and coaches can establish consistent routines at their home facility once again. Their home opener is scheduled for August 29 against Long Beach Poly, giving fans their first chance to see the new-look Hornets at home on brand-new turf.
Historic Championship Goals
Despite the significant changes, Lincoln remains the team to beat in San Diego. Their championship culture, elite coaching staff, and proven ability to reload rather than rebuild gives them the edge. The ultimate goal is historic: becoming the first team in CIF San Diego Section history to win back-to-back Open Division titles. However, 2025 may be their most challenging title defense yet, with a new quarterback, rebuilt defense, another tough non-league schedule, and hungry competition throughout the county who are eager to dethrone the champions.
The Hornets' dynasty continues, but this season will test whether they can maintain their championship standard while breaking in so many new faces in crucial positions and make section history in the process. If any program has the culture and coaching to achieve this goal, it's Lincoln under David Dunn's leadership.
Lincoln Hornets 2025 Schedule
8/22 @ Punahou 5:00pm
8/29 vs. Long Beach Poly 7:00pm
9/5 vs. Arbor View 7:00pm
9/12 vs. Mission Viejo 7:00pm
9/19 vs. Frontier 7:00pm
9/27 vs. Grant 2:00pm
10/10 @ La Jolla 7:00pm
10/17 vs. University City* 7:00pm
10/24 vs. Cathedral Catholic* 7:00pm
10/31 @ Scripps Ranch* 7:00pm
*League games
No comments:
Post a Comment