UPDATE: The CIF state football playoffs are set to kick off this weekend, with crucial matchups determining which teams will advance to the regionals. Top contenders from the Bay Area, including Los Gatos, Serra, and Pittsburg, are ready to battle for section championships and a chance to keep their playoff hopes alive.
This weekend’s action features several high-stakes games, with heavyweights like St. Ignatius and Sacred Heart Cathedral also vying for glory. The excitement peaks on November 18, 2025Central Coast Section Division I final, No. 3 Los Gatos (9-3) faces No. 2 Serra (7-5) at San Jose City College on Friday at 7 p.m.. This matchup showcases two perennial powers with a storied past, as Los Gatos seeks to extend its remarkable run of 16 CCS titles. Last season, Los Gatos defeated Serra in the quarterfinals, and they are eager to repeat that success.
Meanwhile, the CIF NorCal regional playoffs will announce their matchups on Sunday, adding more urgency to these critical games.
On Saturday at 1 p.m., the Division II final will see No. 2 Sacred Heart Cathedral (6-6) go head-to-head with No. 1 St. Ignatius (6-6). This fierce rivalry, known as the Bruce-Mahoney classic, promises to be intense after their last encounter ended in a 23-14 win for SI. With both teams desperate for a title, this game is sure to be a nail-biter.
Later that evening, No. 8 San Mateo (9-3) will clash with No. 3 Menlo-Atherton (6-6) at MacDonald HS at 7 p.m., as San Mateo aims to continue its Cinderella story after upsetting the top seed in the playoffs.
In other matchups, elite teams like No. 2 Pittsburg (10-2) and No. 3 Cardinal Newman (11-1) will face off at Diablo Valley College on Friday at 7 p.m., as Pittsburg tries to secure its fifth consecutive Division I title. Cardinal Newman, riding a wave of momentum after dominating their last game, poses a significant challenge for the Pirates.
Additionally, No. 2 Monte Vista (7-5) will take on No. 4 Clayton Valley Charter (7-5) at Dublin HS, and No. 3 El Cerrito (10-2) will face No. 5 Ukiah at American Canyon HS, both on Friday at 7 p.m..
With the stakes higher than ever, fans are encouraged to support their local teams and witness the thrilling conclusion of the high school football season.
Keep an eye on these matchups as the teams battle for glory and a shot at the CIF state championship. The excitement is palpable, and the outcomes could reshape the future of Bay Area football.
