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 will enter the 2026 season seeking its first winning season and league title since 2021. After finishing 6-8 with a 2-2 record in the Mesa League, Coach Jose Mendoza's squad returns a wealth of experience, featuring six all-league players and 15 returning starters. With a core group of seniors leading the way, Eastlake is poised to compete fiercely for the top spot in the Metro-Mesa league and make another deep playoff run.

Offensively, the Titans will lean heavily on a dynamic rushing attack, led by senior David Branco, who returns after a spectacular season where he accumulated 735 rushing yards on 93 carries and found 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 added 401 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The passing game will look to senior receiver Santi Aleta, the top returning receiver with 19 catches for 307 yards and three scores. The Titans have also bolstered their offense with newcomers, including transfer Jeremiah Holiday from Mount Miguel, and will 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 needed for their ground-and-pound attack.

Defensively, Eastlake is a physical and aggressive unit anchored by a strong linebacker corps and a seasoned secondary. Stephen Guevara III will help anchor the linebackers, while the defensive line features Jovani Ceja (7 sacks). The secondary will be led by Chris Wilson, who recorded five interceptions last season.

The season opens with a crucial rivalry game against Bonita Vista, followed by a tough stretch against Steele Canyon and Scripps Ranch. The league title could 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