The El Capitan varsity football team from Lakeside, CA, faces off against Westview from San Diego, CA, in a crucial neutral-site playoff game today at 3 p.m. This matchup is part of the prestigious 2024 CIF San Diego Section Football Championships in Division IV, promising an exciting clash between determined teams.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: California High School Football Playoff
Who: Westview vs El Capitan
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 CIF San Diego Section Football Championships (California) – Division IV
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: El Capitan vs. Westview

The Westview Wolverines (6-7) and El Capitan Vaqueros (9-3) are set to clash in what promises to be a compelling matchup. Each team’s journey this season has been distinct, with Westview overcoming challenges to keep their season alive and El Capitan showcasing dominance both in league play and postseason success. Let’s dive into the numbers and storylines shaping this game.

Statistical Comparison

The Vaqueros hold the statistical edge across most categories, reflecting their balanced and high-performing offense and defense.

• Offense:
  El Capitan has a clear advantage, averaging 308.8 total yards per game compared to Westview’s 192.8. Their success is built on a potent passing game led by quarterback Brandt Barker, who averages 176.3 yards per game. On the ground, Brady Joralemon has been a reliable force, contributing 63.8 rushing yards per game.
  Westview’s offense, while less explosive, is anchored by quarterback Mason Walsh, who contributes 90.2 passing yards and 122.1 total yards per game. Langdon Mullica leads the Wolverines’ ground game with 42.2 rushing yards per game.
• Defense:
  Both teams boast defensive strengths, with El Capitan averaging 58.5 tackles per game, led by standout linebacker Aaron Altamirano, who records 10.0 tackles per game. Westview, averaging 44.7 tackles per game, relies on Alexavier Loveless to anchor their defense with 6.0 tackles per contest.
  In pass rushing, Westview holds a slight edge, averaging 2.9 sacks per game compared to El Capitan’s 2.5. Defensive lineman Mateo Bresenden leads the Wolverines with 1.7 sacks per game.
• Scoring:
  El Capitan’s offense averages 29.5 points per game, more than double Westview’s 12.9. This disparity in scoring output could play a critical role in the game’s outcome.

Key Players

Both teams feature standout performers who will be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome.

• El Capitan:
  • Offense: Quarterback Brandt Barker has been a game-changer, averaging 176.3 passing yards and 178.7 total yards per game. Receiver Ayden Banegas adds 59.4 receiving yards per game.
  • Defense: Aaron Altamirano leads the defensive unit with 10.0 tackles per game.
• Westview:
  • Offense: Mason Walsh is the centerpiece of the offense, contributing 122.1 total yards and 5.1 points per game. Receiver Aidan Chen chips in with 25.8 receiving yards per game.
  • Defense: Mateo Bresenden is a key pass rusher, with 1.7 sacks per game.

Common Opponent

Both teams have faced Montgomery this season, and each emerged victorious.

• Westview edged out Montgomery 19-14 in a closely fought contest.
• El Capitan defeated Montgomery 14-6 earlier in the season, demonstrating their ability to grind out wins.

Record Breakdown

The Vaqueros have enjoyed a more successful season overall, particularly in league play, where they went undefeated (5-0). In contrast, Westview has had an up-and-down year, finishing 2-4 in league play but proving resilient in the playoffs with a 3-0 record.

• Playoff Success:
  Both teams are undefeated in the postseason, with El Capitan holding a 2-0 record and Westview going 3-0.
• Home and Away Records:
  Both teams are strong at home with 5-2 records. However, El Capitan has been better on the road (4-1) compared to Westview (1-5).

Keys to Victory

• Westview:
  The Wolverines must focus on keeping the game within reach by limiting El Capitan’s explosive passing game. Defensive pressure from players like Mateo Bresenden could disrupt the Vaqueros’ rhythm. Offensively, Mason Walsh needs a standout performance to generate scoring opportunities.
• El Capitan:
  The Vaqueros should capitalize on their offensive firepower, with Barker and Joralemon leading the charge. Consistent execution and avoiding turnovers will allow them to control the game and put pressure on Westview’s defense.

Prediction

El Capitan enters this matchup as the favorite, given their superior offensive production and balanced team performance. Westview has shown resilience and the ability to win close games, but their offensive struggles may hinder their chances of keeping up with the Vaqueros’ dynamic attack. Expect a competitive game, but El Capitan’s efficiency and playmakers should propel them to victory.