Prep Football: Mission Hills Claims Top Spot in Tightest Poll Race of the Season

Others Receiving Votes: Imperial (9-0, 14 points), Santa Fe Christian (9-0, 8 points),

Rancho Bernardo (7-2, 3 points), Mission Bay (9-0, 2 points), Holtville (8-1, 1 point)

After a week of stunning upsets that saw both Lincoln and Carlsbad fall from the Top 2, Mission Hills (8-1) has ascended to No. 1 in the latest San Diego Union-Tribune poll, collecting 15 first-place votes and 260 points. The Grizzlies' 56-0 rout over Rancho Bernardo demonstrated the explosive potential that has voters convinced they're the county's most complete team. However, the race couldn't be tighter—Cathedral Catholic (7-2) sits just two points behind at No. 2 after their stunning 42-33 upset of previously top-ranked Lincoln. The Dons' junior running back Honor Fa'alave-Johnson's five-touchdown performance earned them 10 first-place votes and validated their championship credentials despite a few setbacks on the season.

La Costa Canyon (8-1) jumped to No. 3 with five first-place votes after their dominant 50-22 victory over arch-rival Carlsbad, while Lincoln dropped to fourth following their first loss in Western League play since 2021. The most intriguing storyline remains Point Loma's perfect 9-0 season at No. 7, as the Pointers continue their methodical march through opponents while flying under the radar, despite having a win over Cathedral on their resume. As the regular season winds down, three other undefeated teams—Imperial, Mission Bay, and Santa Fe Christian—lurk just outside the top 10, each hoping to make a late-season push into the rankings. With playoff seeding on the line and several key matchups looming, the final week of the regular season promise to deliver more drama.

Prep Football: Top Two Teams Fall in Stunning Friday Night Upsets

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

#5 Cathedral Catholic's rushing attack sparks upset over #1 Lincoln

In a single night that will be remembered as one of the most chaotic of the 2025 season, the San Diego high school football landscape was turned on its head. Both the No. 1 Lincoln Hornets (7-2) and the No. 2 Carlsbad Lancers (8-1) suffered decisive defeats, signaling a dramatic power shift as the playoff picture comes into focus. Amidst the upsets, four undefeated teams continued their perfect marches, setting the stage for a thrilling postseason.

In the week's most dramatic upset, No. 5 Cathedral Catholic (7-2) defeated top-ranked Lincoln 42-33 in a Western League showdown Friday night. The Dons engineered a stunning comeback, rallying from an early deficit to snap a four-game losing streak in the series.

Lincoln came out explosively, building a commanding 14-0 lead in the first quarter and maintaining a 21-14 advantage at halftime. However, the game shifted decisively in the second half. With starting quarterback Brady Palmer sidelined by injury, Cathedral Catholic leaned heavily on its run game, and junior Honor Fa'alave-Johnson delivered a legendary performance. He powered the offense, rushing for five touchdowns, including breakaway scores of 33 and 57 yards in the final seven minutes to seal the victory. Stepping in at quarterback, Josh Faraimo managed the game effectively, connecting on key passes, including a crucial third-quarter touchdown to Isaac Cook that tied the game 21-21 and ignited the Dons' comeback bid.

In a parallel stunner just up the coast, the No. 4 La Costa Canyon Mavericks (8-1) delivered a dominant performance, handing the previously undefeated No. 2 Carlsbad Lancers (8-1) a resounding 50-22 loss. Senior running back Coby Herman earned MVP honors after rushing for 182 yards, putting up 113 yards receiving, and scoring four touchdowns (3 runs, 1 catch).

The dual upsets guarantee a significant reshuffling at the summit of next week's rankings.

While chaos reigned at the top, other ranked teams made powerful statements. The No. 3 Mission Hills Grizzlies (8-1) served notice with an utterly dominant 56-0 shutout of No. 10 Rancho Bernardo (7-2), proving their credentials as a true title contender. Further down the rankings, No. 7 Point Loma preserved its perfect 9-0 record with a 24-0 shutout of Christian.

Undefeated Watch: Four Teams Remain Perfect

Imperial (9-0): The Tigers continued their impressive run with a 14-7 victory over Brawley.

Mission Bay (9-0): The Buccaneers' high-powered offense rolled on with a 49-21 win over Crawford.

#7 Point Loma (9-0): The Pointers continue to roll and should make a big jump in the rankings.

Santa Fe Christian (9-0): The Eagles were on a bye week, resting up for their final push.

Prep Football: Bragging Rights and Playoff Fates on the Line in a Can't-Miss Friday Slate

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

As the 2025 high school football season charges toward the playoffs, this Friday night offers a slate of games that feels like a postseason preview. From a championship rematch to a bitter crosstown rivalry and a pair of heavyweight battles between one-loss giants, Week 10 has it all. Here are four can't-miss games that will define the landscape this weekend.

The Main Event: Lincoln vs. Cathedral Catholic

All eyes will be on Southeast San Diego this Friday for a game that needs no introduction: a rematch of the 2024 CIF San Diego Section Open Division Championship. The No. 1 ranked Lincoln Hornets (7-1) host the No. 5 Cathedral Catholic Dons (6-2) in a Western League battle dripping with history. The Hornets have won the last four meetings, including a 31-13 victory that clinched the title last November. For Lincoln, this is about defending their throne and proving their dominance remains. For Cathedral Catholic, it’s about nothing less than revenge and staying in the Open Division playoff picture.

The matchup is highlighted by elite individual talent. Lincoln's offensive juggernaut, which averages 43.5 points per game, is fueled by a multi-pronged attack. While quarterbacks Jordan Roa and Kainan Manna have been efficient for the Hornets, the ground game is devastating, led by the dynamic duo of Rashad Robinson (747 yard, 11 TDs) and Junior Curtis (757 yards, 10 TDs). Junior Courtney Miller-Thompson leads an explosive receiving group in catches (43), receiving yards (610) & touchdowns (6).

Their defense, which flies to the ball for 77.6 tackles per game, is anchored by Oregon commit Prince Tavizon, team sack leader Jaydin Lewis (7.0 sacks) and tackling machine Seth Fanua (48 solo, 66 total). Cathedral counters with their own impact players. The offense will feature big play threats such as running back Willie Flores, leading receiver Isaac Cook Jr. (13th in the section with 636 receiving yards) and versatile scoring threat Honor Faalave-Johnson (2nd in the league with 11 total TDs). While quarterback Brady Palmer has been out with an injury for the last two games, he is 2nd in the Western League in total yards (1,547).

The key battles will be in the trenches and on the perimeter. Can the Dons' offensive line contain Lincoln's pass rush? Conversely, can the Dons' secondary find an answer for Lincoln's offensive weapons and prevent the big play? The psychological edge in this contest is monumental. Lincoln plays with the swagger of a champion, a team that knows how to win these high-stakes moments. Cathedral Catholic carries the weight of recent history, but also the motivation that comes from it.

While the Dons have the talent to pull off the upset, Lincoln’s combination of home-field advantage, championship experience, and a more diverse array of game-breaking players makes them the team to beat. In what promises to be an emotional, hard-hitting classic, the Hornets’ reign in this series looks poised to continue for at least another year.

College Football Recap (Oct. 18)

Julian Sayin Shines in Ohio State Victory

Former Carlsbad High School star Julian Sayin delivered a career-best performance for Ohio State in the Buckeyes' 42-36 victory over Wisconsin Saturday morning. The sophomore quarterback completed an impressive 85.7% of his passes (36-of-42) for 393 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing the elite talent that made him one of the nation's top recruits. Sayin's precision passing attack carved up the Badgers defense as he distributed the ball efficiently throughout the game, displaying the poise and accuracy that San Diego County football fans have come to expect from the talented signal-caller.

The performance wasn't just statistically impressive—it marked Sayin's arrival as a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender for the undefeated Buckeyes.

Sayin has now completed more than 70% of his passing attempts with at least two touchdown passes in each of Ohio State's last six games, joining an exclusive club that includes only four other quarterbacks: 2023 Heisman finalist Bo Nix, 2020 finalist Trevor Lawrence, 2019 winner Joe Burrow, and 2018 winner Kyler Murray. 

His teammate, star wide receiver Carnell Tate, didn't mince words about Sayin's Heisman credentials, declaring: "He's the truth. He's a Heisman winner. There's no ifs, ands or doubts about it. Each and every week, he shows us he's a Heisman winner."

The Carlsbad native has taken the college football world by storm in his first year as a starter, leading the nation in completion percentage while piloting Ohio State's high-powered offense. Head coach Ryan Day intentionally opened up the offense against Wisconsin, putting more on Sayin's plate and challenging him to push the ball downfield—a test the young quarterback passed with flying colors. The Buckeyes remain perfect at 7-0 and have won 11 consecutive games dating back to their College Football Playoff championship run last season, with Sayin emerging as the orchestrator of one of the nation's most dominant offenses.

Is Julian Sayin a Heisman Trophy Contender?

As the 2025 college football season heats up, one of the biggest storylines revolve around sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin. After transferring to Ohio State from Alabama, Sayin has quickly become one of the most talked-about young quarterbacks in the country. With a loaded Buckeye roster, elite-level offensive weapons, and national championship aspirations, the question many football fans from Carlsbad to Columbus are asking is simple — can Julian Sayin actually win the Heisman Trophy this year?

From Alabama to Ohio State: The Rise of Julian Sayin

A five-star recruit from Carlsbad High, where he was considered one of the most polished high school quarterbacks in the country, Sayin enrolled early at Alabama. However, after legendary head coach Nick Saban announced his retirement, Sayin entered the transfer portal and landed at Ohio State in early 2024 — a move that immediately reshaped the Buckeyes’ quarterback situation.

In limited action during the 2024 season, Sayin showed flashes of brilliance for the eventual national champions, completing 5 of 12 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown. That small sample and his training camp performance was enough for Ohio State’s coaching staff to hand him the keys to the offense in 2025. Through the first half of the season, he’s made good on that decision, throwing for over 1,400 yards, 15 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, while maintaining one of the top efficiency ratings in college football.

Aztecs on a Roll: Can the Winning Streak Continue?

The San Diego State Aztecs continues to impress in the 2025 season, now riding a four-game winning streak and sitting at 5-1 overall. Under head coach Sean Lewis, the team has already eclipsed last year’s win total and is showing no signs of slowing down. With commanding victories at home and a statement road win in Reno, SDSU is emerging as a serious contender in the Mountain West Conference.

Recapping the Streak: From Shutout to Blowout

The streak began on September 20 with a 34-0 shutout of California, followed by a gritty 6-3 win at Northern Illinois and a 45-24 offensive explosion against Colorado State. But the most recent chapter came on October 11, when the Aztecs demolished Nevada 44-10 on the road.

SDSU scored in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams—marking their most complete performance of the season. Jordan Napier opened the scoring with a 75-yard punt return touchdown, and Chris Johnson added another pick-six, his second of the season. The Aztecs built a 35-0 halftime lead, silencing the crowd at Mackay Stadium while extending their conference record to 2-0.

San Diego Prep Football Top 10 (Week 9)

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

UNION-TRIBUNE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL POLL

🥇 Lincoln Hornets (6-1): The Hornets remain the gold standard of the San Diego Section as they get set for Western League play. First-place votes: 30 • Last week: 1

🥈 Carlsbad Lancers (7-0): A statement win over Mission Hills puts the Lancers back in the Open Division conversation. Last week: 5

🥉 La Costa Canyon Mavericks (6-1): The Mavs earn a much-needed win over San Marcos coming off their first regular season loss since 2023. Last week: 4

4️⃣ Mission Hills Grizzlies (6-1): Despite suffering their first loss of the season, the Grizzles are still a team that can make some noise in the postseason. Last week: 3

5️⃣ Cathedral Catholic Dons (5-2): The Dons look to bounce back following a disappointing loss to Point Loma. Last week: 2

6️⃣ Granite Hills Eagles (4-3): A come-from-behind win over Mount Miguel ended a tough losing streak and put the Eagles in the Grossmont Hills League driver's seat. Last week: 6

7️⃣ Rancho Bernardo Broncos (7-0): The Broncos’ discipline and consistent play have kept them undefeated despite facing numerous challenges. Last week: 8

8️⃣ Point Loma Pointers (7-0): The undefeated Pointers vaulted into the Top 10 after stunning previously No. 2 Cathedral Catholic. Last week: NR

9️⃣ San Marcos Knights (5-2): RB Zamar Reese is having a breakout season for the Knights, while QB Kreet Makihele continues to climb the section's all-time leaderboard for Touchdown Passes. Last week: 7

🔟 Mount Miguel Matadors (5-3): A gritty squad that’s taken on a tough schedule. Led by QB Jeremiah Loper, the Matadors’ offense can light up the scoreboard when in rhythm. Last week: 9

⚡ On the Bubble

Imperial (8-0) – RB Deren Hueso, WR Gio Robles, & QB Santonio Urena are lighting it up for the undefeated Tigers.

 
Steele Canyon (7-0) – The Cougars' undefeated streak will be put to it's biggest test against Spring Valley rival Mount Miguel.

 
Santa Fe Christian (8-0) – QB Dax Labrum and the Eagles are quietly making noise.

 
Mission Bay (8-0) – QB Trey Arnold leads the section in passing yards, while LB Jevyn Higman anchors a talented defense.

 
Oceanside (3-4) – Rebuilding but always a threat, the Pirates are much better than their record show.

Voters (30 sportswriters, sportscasters and administrators from throughout the San Diego Section):

John Maffei (San Diego Union-Tribune), Don Norcross, Kevin Farmer, Rick Hoff,

Steve Brand (Union-Tribune freelance writers), Joe Heinz, Todd Cassen, Ron Marquez (CIF Office), Brandon Stone, Allison Edmonds, John Carroll, Chase Izidoro (KUSI-TV),

Rick Smith (Partletonsports.com), Braden Surprenant (97.3-FM The Fan),

Mike Dolan (Coaching Legends Committee), Tom Helmantoler (Southern Conference Advisor),

Joe Evangelist, Rex Johnson and Bruce Ward (CIF Advisory Committee),

Raymond Brown (sdfootball.net), Christian Pedersen (San Diego Sports Association),

Bodie DeSilva, John Kentera, Dennis Ackerman, Steve Dolan, Eric Williams, Thomas Gutierrez,

Tom Ronco, Adam Paul (freelance contributors), MaxPreps.

College Football Recap (Oct. 9-11)

USD sporting new Torero Blue jerseys for their Homecoming Game against Drake.

A week of thrilling finishes and statement victories saw San Diego State continue its hot streak while local junior college teams battled through pivotal conference matchups. From a last-second heartbreaker for the Toreros to Southwestern cementing its local dominance, here’s a recap of the action.

Drake Walks Off USD for Third Straight Season

For the third consecutive year, the University of San Diego Toreros (3-4, 1-2 PFL) suffered a last-second, walk-off defeat at the hands of the Drake Bulldogs, falling 19-16 at Torero Stadium. In a defensive struggle defined by field goals, the Toreros held a 13-10 lead entering the fourth quarter. After allowing a five-yard touchdown run by Logan Inagawa to give Drake a 16-13 lead, a missed extra point gave USD life. Kicker Emiliano Salazar nailed a 41-yard field goal with 1:09 left to tie the game at 16-16. However, Drake drove into range, and Cathedral Catholic alum Harry Balke booted a 55-yard field goal as time expired. USD running back Adam Criter was a workhorse, carrying the ball 28 times for 108 yards. Senior receiver Cole Monach provided the biggest offensive spark with a 73-yard touchdown catch from punt returner Yosei Takahashi on a double-pass play. They now head into a needed bye week to regroup before a road trip to Davidson on October 25th.

Aztecs Roll to Fourth Straight Win, Best Start Since 2021

San Diego State (5-1, 2-0 MWC) put on a dominant road performance, blowing out the Nevada Wolf Pack 44-10. The Aztecs' offense was explosive, scoring 35 points in the first half—their most in a half since at least 2000. The defense and special teams joined the party, with Chris Johnson returning an interception for a touchdown and Jordan Napier (5 RECs for 110 yards) taking a punt 75 yards to the house. It was the first time SDSU had both a punt return and an interception return for a TD in the same game since 2013. San Diego State kicker Gabe Plascencia was perfect, going 3-for-3 on field goals and extending his school and Mountain West record streak to 22 consecutive makes. With their fourth consecutive victory, the Aztecs have secured their best start to a season since 2021 and will head into their bye week firmly in the Mountain West conference race.

Next Game: Saturday, Oct. 25 at Fresno State

Otay Ranch Alum Devin Lloyd Shines in Jags Monday Night Win

JACKSONVILLE, FL - In a thrilling Monday Night Football showdown, the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-1) edged out the Kansas City Chiefs (2-3) 31-28 at EverBank Stadium. While quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the offense delivered key plays, it was linebacker Devin Lloyd—a former standout at Otay Ranch High School in Chula Vista—who stole the show with a game-changing 99-yard interception return for a touchdown against Patrick Mahomes. This electrifying play not only shifted momentum but also highlighted Lloyd's resurgence in the 2025 season, proving why he's becoming one of the NFL's top defensive playmakers.

OH MY GOD!!!!! JAGS 99-YARD PICK-6 ON PATRICK MAHOMES!!!! 🤯🤯🤯

WHAT. JUST. HAPPENED.

(via @NFL)
pic.twitter.com/SOfOU1b7KW

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 7, 2025

Lloyd's night was nothing short of spectacular. Beyond the headline-grabbing 99-yard pick-six—his fourth interception of the season, leading the NFL—Lloyd racked up 10 tackles (7 solo), a forced fumble, and two passes defended. His five takeaways through five games have him tied for the league lead, showcasing his elite instincts and athleticism. According to PFF, Lloyd boasts an overall grade of 91.0, ranking third among linebackers, with top marks in coverage (90.1) and pass rush (88.9).

JuCo: Midseason Standouts

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

As San Diego Juco Football reaches the midpoint of its season, several players have emerged as difference-makers for their respective programs. From explosive receivers to shutdown defenders, these athletes are putting together standout campaigns worth recognizing. Keep an eye on these names as they make waves at the junior college level and could be on the radar of four-year programs nationwide.