CIFSS Semifinal Preview and Predictions

JPWest Media Game of the Week: Mater Dei @ Centennial (Corona)

Friday, 11/22, 7 pm – Husky Stadium – Centennial High School (Corona)

Photographer: Richard Do | Reporter: Isabella Lyons

PREVIEW:

We welcome the 2024 CIF-SS D1 semifinal playoff game with two familiar teams, the Mater Dei Monarchs (11-0) and the Corona Centennial Huskies (9-2). The last time these teams faced each other was in week 0 when Mater Dei claimed a 42-25 victory over Corona Centennial. This rematch is highly-anticipated, both statewide and nationally.

Mater Dei defeated Corona Centennial in week 0, a game without 5-star quarterback Husan Longstreet. His recent commitment flip this week from Texas A&M to USC has sent shockwaves throughout the recruiting world, demanding his presence be felt. Furthermore, his presence for Corona Centennial highly impacted their offense in their first meeting earlier this season, where the offense stalled. With the addition of Longstreet this time around, the offense will have more success. Defensively, they have added former Mater Dei defensive back and punt returner, Boogie Williams. Williams, who was absent the first half of the season due to CIF transfer rules, has since returned. In six games, he has recorded 18 total tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. His recent addition will greatly affect the turnout of the game. Something important to note is that the Huskies have not dismounted the Monarchs since the 2015-16 season, nearly a decade ago. Could this possibly be the game for them?

Conversely, Mater Dei has dominated their national schedule all season, most notably defeating arch-rivals St. John Bosco 59-14 nearly a month ago. Key players for Mater Dei such as Jordon Davidson, Dash Beierly, Mark Bowman, and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt have been exceptional for the Monarch offense. Defensively, they are stacked at every position, with standout players Semi Taulanga, Nasir Wyatt, Cory Lavender Jr., and Lucas Campizta. The tide seems to be in favor of #1 nationally ranked Mater Dei who are highly favored to win.

RICHARD’S PREDICTION:

Mater Dei advances to the championship game with a narrow victory, defeating the Huskies 28-24. 

JP’S PREDICTION:

Mater Dei starts fast and finishes on top in a 42-24 victory to advance to the championship game for the 9th straight year 

Edison @ Vista Murrieta

Friday, 11/22, 7 pm – Vista Murrieta HS

Photographer: Jeremy Westerbeck | Reporter: Dean Ferguson

PREVIEW: 

The second game of the CIF-SS Division 3 Semifinals takes us to Murrieta, CA, where the red-hot Edison Chargers (8-4) will face off against the Vista Murrieta Broncos (8-4).

Edison enters this matchup riding high after securing their second consecutive shutout victory in the quarterfinals, defeating Bonita High School 24-0 in La Verne. The Chargers’ defense was dominant, led by Jeremiah Ross, who recorded an impressive 14 solo tackles. On offense, quarterback Sam Thomson had an efficient outing, completing 6 of 8 passes for 106 yards and two touchdowns. The Chargers’ ground game also delivered, with standout performances from Julius Gillick and Sam Edmisten, each rushing for over 75 yards.

Vista Murrieta also earned their spot in the semifinals with a commanding defensive performance, shutting out Cajon High School in their quarterfinal matchup. Junior quarterback Bryson Beaver went 10-for-20 for 113 yards and one touchdown, while running back Devon Leonard carried the offense with a dominant 176-yard performance on 29 carries, including one touchdown.

PREDICTION:

Edison edges out Vista Murrieta in a thrilling contest, winning 28-24 to advance to the Division 3 championship game.