UPDATE: The Bay Area high school football playoffs kick off this weekend as teams vie for coveted spots in the CIF state playoffs. With thrilling matchups scheduled, fans are eager to see who will join heavyweights like De La Salle, Archbishop Riordan, and McClymonds in the next round.
Friday, November 17, 2025, marks a pivotal day for local teams, with action packed into the Central Coast Section and North Coast Section playoffs. Here’s a breakdown of the most critical games to watch:
Central Coast Section Division I
No. 3 Los Gatos (9-3) faces off against No. 2 Serra (7-5) at San Jose City College at 7 p.m. This matchup between two perennial powers will determine the Division I champion. Los Gatos, with a dynamic offense led by QB Callum Schweitzer, aims to extend their season after a strong performance last year. Serra, reeling from their recent loss to Riordan, is looking to rebound and secure a spot in the CIF NorCal regional playoffs.
Division II
In another thrilling contest, No. 2 Sacred Heart Cathedral (6-6) battles against No. 1 St. Ignatius (6-6) at San Jose City College, Saturday at 1 p.m. This rematch of the fierce Bruce-Mahoney classic promises intense competition, especially after their last encounter ended in a 23-14 victory for SI. Senior QB Caedon Afsharipour is looking to lead the Wildcats to glory after a stellar performance last week.
Division III
The Cinderella story of No. 8 San Mateo (9-3) continues as they face No. 3 Menlo-Atherton (6-6) at MacDonald HS on Saturday at 7 p.m. San Mateo aims for their first section title since 2003 after shocking top-seeded Woodside in the playoffs.
North Coast Section Division I
On the same night, No. 2 Pittsburg (10-2) goes head-to-head with No. 3 Cardinal Newman (11-1) at Diablo Valley College at 7 p.m. Pittsburg, coming off a narrow defeat against De La Salle, seeks redemption against a formidable Cardinal Newman squad that has not lost since their opening game.
Fans are buzzing with excitement as these pivotal matchups approach. The CIF will announce regional matchups and the Open Division state championship game on Sunday, making this weekend’s games even more critical for teams aiming for postseason glory.
Don’t miss the action—these games will shape the future of Bay Area high school football! Be sure to share your predictions and favorite moments as the playoffs unfold.
