Prep Football: Santa Fe Christian Survives Thriller to Win Division 2 Crown, Perfect Season Continues

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

In a heart-stopping battle that came down to the final minutes, Santa Fe Christian (13-0) survived a furious Steele Canyon comeback to claim the CIF San Diego Division II championship 44-41 on Friday night, continuing their campaign as the only undefeated team remaining in the San Diego Section. The Eagles, coached by a staff that includes NFL legend Drew Brees as an assistant, delivered a championship performance befitting their historic season.

Quarterback Dax Labrum put on a championship clinic, throwing for five touchdown passes to lead the Eagles' high-powered offense. Labrum found his favorite target Chase Woolley three times in the end zone, including a spectacular 51-yard strike in the third quarter. Woolley's impact extended beyond receiving, as he delivered a crucial kickoff return deep into Steele Canyon territory in the fourth quarter that set up what proved to be the game-winning touchdown. Kicker Bradan Scott, who also caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from Labrum, was flawless on the night, converting all six extra points and drilling three field goals from 21, 37, and 43 yards out.

The game featured multiple momentum swings and showcased the resilience of both teams. Steele Canyon struck first with an 80-yard touchdown pass and a 98-yard kickoff return for a score to take an early 14-10 lead, but Santa Fe Christian seized control in the second quarter, outscoring the Cougars 17-0 to build a commanding 30-14 halftime advantage. The Cougars refused to go quietly, clawing back with 27 second-half points including a late fourth-quarter touchdown by Sinan Khudur that cut the deficit to just three points at 44-41 with minutes remaining.

Santa Fe Christian's ability to answer every Steele Canyon challenge in the final quarter proved to be the difference. When the Cougars scored to make it 37-34, the Eagles immediately responded with Labrum's fifth touchdown pass following Woolley's big return. The Eagles then controlled the clock in the final minutes to secure the title. Steele Canyon's season ends at 9-4 after a valiant effort, while Santa Fe Christian will advance to the State Playoffs, where they'll look to continue their perfect season and bring another championship back to Solana Beach.