UPDATE: The Bay Area high school football playoffs kick off this weekend, with teams vying for coveted spots in the CIF state playoffs. Major contenders including De La Salle, Archbishop Riordan, and McClymonds are set to make their mark as the competition heats up.
As anticipation builds, heavyweights such as Pittsburg, Serra, and Los Gatos will battle for the section championships, aiming to extend their seasons. The CIF will reveal the regional matchups and Open Division state championship pairings on November 21, 2025. This is a critical moment for teams hoping to continue their championship journeys.
The Central Coast Section Division I final features a thrilling showdown: No. 3 Los Gatos (9-3) faces off against No. 2 Serra (7-5) at San Jose City College on Friday at 7 p.m.. Both programs are storied rivals, with Los Gatos looking to maintain its dominance after two previous playoff victories against Serra. With a dynamic offense led by QB Callum Schweitzer and a solid running back lineup, Los Gatos is primed for success. Meanwhile, Serra’s recent struggles against Riordan raise questions about their readiness, despite showing glimpses of resilience.
In Division II, the historic rivalry continues as No. 2 Sacred Heart Cathedral (6-6) battles No. 1 St. Ignatius (6-6) on Saturday at 1 p.m.. This rematch of the Bruce-Mahoney Classic promises intensity, especially after their last encounter ended in a contentious 23-14 victory for St. Ignatius. With both teams hungry for a title, the stakes could not be higher.
Division III showcases No. 8 San Mateo (9-3) against No. 3 Menlo-Atherton (6-6) at MacDonald HS on Saturday at 7 p.m.. San Mateo aims to cap a Cinderella run, having upset the top seed in prior rounds. Meanwhile, Menlo-Atherton looks to reclaim its former glory with a powerful playoff performance.
Also on Saturday, No. 3 Lincoln-San Jose (9-3) goes against No. 1 Branham (7-5) at San Jose City College, with Lincoln seeking its first-ever section title. The Lions, led by standout senior Kyan Phillips, are riding a wave of momentum after a strong semifinal against Willow Glen.
In Division IV, No. 2 Sobrato (8-4) faces No. 1 Piedmont Hills (9-3) at MacDonald HS on Saturday at 1 p.m.. Piedmont Hills aims for back-to-back championships, while Sobrato seeks its first title appearance. The matchup is expected to be closely contested, with predictions showing a narrow victory for Piedmont Hills.
Turning to the North Coast Section, the spotlight is on No. 2 Pittsburg (10-2) versus No. 3 Cardinal Newman (11-1) at Diablo Valley College on Friday at 7 p.m.. Pittsburg is eager to secure its fifth consecutive Division I crown after a near-upset against De La Salle, while Cardinal Newman comes in strong after a decisive semifinal win.
As the playoffs unfold, local fans are eager to see who will rise to the occasion and secure their place in the state playoffs. The excitement is palpable, and teams are ready to leave everything on the field. With crucial matchups taking place this weekend, all eyes will be on the Bay Area high school football scene.
Stay tuned for updates on these thrilling matchups as the CIF playoffs progress!
