Prep Football: Can Eastlake reclaim South Bay dominance?

Photo Credit: Jay Vista Photography

Location: Chula Vista, CA

League: Metro Mesa

Head Coach: Jose Mendoza (7th Season)

2025 Season: 6-8 (2-2 Mesa League, T-2nd)

2025 Playoffs: Lost to Valley Center in D-IV Final

2026 Outlook:

Coming off an appearance in the Division IV championship game, the Titans enter the 2026 season seeking their first winning season and league title since 2021. Coach Jose Mendoza's squad returns a wealth of experience, featuring six all-league players and 15 returning starters from last year's 6-8 team. With a core group of seniors leading the way, Eastlake is poised to compete for the top spot in the Metro-Mesa League and make another deep playoff run.

Offensively, the Titans may lean heavily on a dynamic rushing attack led by senior David Branco, who returns after putting up 735 rushing yards on 93 carries and finding the end zone 13 times. Branco, who also contributes as a linebacker, is not only a threat on the ground but can add versatility to the passing game. He will be joined in the backfield by senior Eidrin Estrelon, who chipped in 401 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Senior Santi Aleta is the top returning receiver with 19 catches for 307 yards and three scores last year. The Titans have also bolstered their offense with newcomers, including transfer Jeremiah Holiday from Mount Miguel, and can utilize a stable of playmakers like Zaymir Webb and Justice Alcantara to stretch the field. Up front, the Titans have a formidable presence with Diego Cabrera and Noah Addleman on the offensive line, providing the muscle for their ground-and-pound attack.

Defensively, Eastlake returns a productive unit anchored by a strong linebacker corps and a seasoned secondary. Stephen Guevara III will help lead the linebackers, while the defensive line features Jovani Ceja, who recorded 7 sacks last season. The secondary will be led by Chris Wilson, who picked off five passes in 2025.

The season opens with a crucial rivalry game against Bonita Vista on August 21, followed by a tough stretch that includes Steele Canyon and Scripps Ranch. The league title could very well be decided in a key showdown at Mater Dei Catholic on October 16th. The Titans will look to avenge last year's losses and make a statement in the Mesa League, setting the stage for what could be a defining season in Chula Vista.

Impact Losses:

 

QB Tyler Balko

ATH Ryan Branco

2026 Schedule:

8/21 vs. Bonita Vista (R) (#)

8/28 vs. Morse

9/4 vs. Steele Canyon

9/11 @ Scripps Ranch

9/18 vs. Vista

9/25 vs. Madison

10/2 vs. Otay Ranch*

10/9 @ Montgomery*

10/16 @ Mater Dei Catholic* (R)

10/30 vs. Olympian* (R)

* League Opponent

(R) Revenge Game

(#) Rivalry Game