UPDATE: Four football teams from Santa Cruz County are set to battle in the Central Coast Section (CCS) playoffs this weekend, with all teams facing challenging road games in the quarterfinals. The matchups were confirmed at the seeding meeting on Sunday, igniting excitement among local fans.
In an intense opening round, Soquel (9-1), the No. 5 seed in Division I, will clash against the undefeated No. 4 Palma (10-0) at Rabobank Stadium in Salinas on Friday, November 24, 2023, at 7 p.m. This rematch marks a chance for Soquel to avenge their only loss of the season, a narrow 28-21 defeat on Halloween.
Soquel’s roster, impacted by injuries, will rely on junior quarterback Rowen Gonsiewski, who has stepped up since replacing injured senior Sam Whelan. “Our confidence remains high,” said Knights running back Keyandre Bailey. “We have to maintain that mindset.”
Meanwhile, the No. 6 Saint Francis (5-5) will face No. 3 Los Gatos (7-3), showcasing fierce competition in the other Division I matchup. The winners will advance to face the Open Division runner-up for the D-I title later this month.
In Division IV, local rivals Scotts Valley (8-2) and San Lorenzo Valley (7-2) could potentially meet in the semifinals, provided they both secure victories in their opening games. Scotts Valley, seeded No. 6, will take on No. 3 Lincoln (7-3) in San Jose. As they prepare for the challenge, the Falcons emphasize their belief in quarterback Caden Kilpatrick as their “X-factor” for success.
SLV, back in the playoffs for the first time since 2015, faces No. 2 Willow Glen (8-2) in a crucial matchup. The Rams rely on quarterback Aiden Akery, who has a mix of impressive statistics despite struggles with interceptions.
In Division V, Santa Cruz (7-3) will open its playoff journey against No. 2 Sobrato (6-4) on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 1 p.m. The Cardinals’ coach, Sergio Escobar, expressed confidence: “We’ve got a shot. People don’t want to see us get in the dance,” hinting at their potential to surprise opponents.
All quarterfinal games in Division IV are set for Friday at 7 p.m., making for an electrifying night of high school football. Fans are encouraged to support their teams as they embark on this pivotal playoff journey.
IF YOU GO:
CCS Quarterfinals
Friday, November 24, 2023
7 p.m.:
D-I: No. 5 Soquel (9-1) at No. 4 Palma (10-0), Rabobank Stadium
D-IV: No. 6 Scotts Valley (8-2) at No. 3 Lincoln (7-3)
D-IV: No. 7 SLV (8-2) at No. 2 Willow Glen (8-2)
Saturday, November 25, 2023
1 p.m.:
D-V: No. 7 Santa Cruz (7-3) at No. 2 Sobrato (6-4)
Football fans across Santa Cruz County are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of playoff action!
