The Junipero Serra (San Mateo, CA) varsity football team will host Los Gatos (CA) in a playoff game today at 1 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 CIF Central Coast Section Football Championships, Open/Division I tournament, as both teams compete for a chance to advance further in the postseason.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: California High School Football
Who: Los Gatos vs Junipero Serra
When: Today, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 CIF Central Coast Section Football Championships (California) – 0pen/Division I
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Junipero Serra vs. Los Gatos

Today’s playoff game between Junipero Serra (San Mateo, CA) and Los Gatos (CA) promises to be an exciting matchup, as both teams battle for a spot in the next round of the 2024 CIF Central Coast Section Football Championships, Open/Division I tournament. With contrasting records and scoring patterns, this game will feature two distinct styles of play.

Team Records and Performance

Los Gatos enters the game as the higher-seeded team, boasting an 8-2 overall record and an impressive .800 win percentage both overall and in league play. Their strong offensive performance has helped them to dominate in the regular season, with 328 total points scored and only 126 points allowed. The team’s consistency is reflected in their 4-1 record at both home and away games, making them a well-rounded and formidable opponent.

In contrast, Junipero Serra has had a more challenging season, finishing with a 5-5 overall record and a 4-3 league performance. Despite their .500 win percentage, they’ve been competitive, particularly in home games, where they hold a 3-1 record. Junipero Serra’s offense has scored 271 points but allowed 233, reflecting some struggles on defense. Nevertheless, their ability to compete at a high level in league play, especially in tight games, gives them hope for an upset.

Scoring Averages and Key Stats

Los Gatos has averaged 32.8 points per game, with a particularly strong first half where they score 24.1 points combined in the first and second quarters. Their offense has been explosive, averaging nearly 9 points in the first quarter alone and a robust 15.2 points in the second quarter. This early dominance could prove pivotal, especially if they build an early lead against Junipero Serra.

On the other hand, Junipero Serra has averaged 27.1 points per game, with a more balanced scoring distribution. They’ve shown the ability to score early (11.3 points in the first quarter) and close strong with 10 points in the fourth quarter. This late-game surge could be crucial if the game is tight in the final moments.

Keys to the Game

• Los Gatos’ Offensive Firepower: With their high-scoring offense, Los Gatos will look to establish dominance early. Their ability to score quickly and often in the first half will be critical to setting the tone of the game.
• Junipero Serra’s Resilience: Despite their record, Junipero Serra’s ability to put up solid points in all quarters, especially in the second half, makes them a dangerous opponent. If they can limit Los Gatos’ early scoring and maintain their rhythm, they could push for a late-game comeback.

This game will be a clash of styles: Los Gatos’ explosive offense versus Junipero Serra’s gritty, balanced attack. The outcome of this matchup will depend on whether Los Gatos can maintain their early dominance or if Junipero Serra’s resilience and late-game firepower will lead them to an upset. With both teams bringing intensity to the field, today’s game is sure to be a thrilling contest.

The upcoming matchup between Los Gatos and Junipero Serra is one that will captivate fans and football enthusiasts alike. Both teams come into this game with impressive records, and each has its own strengths and key players that could swing the outcome of the game. Here’s a closer look at the two teams, comparing their key stats and performances.

Team Statistics Comparison

Offensive Strengths

Los Gatos boasts a well-rounded offensive attack, with a solid rushing game and effective passing. The team averages 148.3 rushing yards per game, with Grayson Doslak leading the charge at 65.9 yards per game. Their passing game is also efficient, as quarterback Scotty Brennan records 112.6 passing yards per game, contributing significantly to the team’s total offensive output of 321.2 yards per game.

In comparison, Junipero Serra’s offensive stats are not listed, which leaves some question marks about their overall offensive capabilities. However, the team still manages to put up solid numbers with 27 pancake blocks, showing the importance of their offensive line in creating opportunities for their skill players.

Defensive and Special Teams

On the defensive side, Los Gatos is particularly strong, averaging 60.2 tackles per game, with Austin Krug leading the team with 6.4 tackles per game. The team also shows its ability to generate some pressure, averaging 0.8 sacks per game. While Junipero Serra’s specific defensive statistics are not provided, their ability to stay competitive and win games speaks to the strength of their defense.

Both teams show good balance in their approach, with Los Gatos excelling in its tackle numbers and overall team defense. The added emphasis on special teams play and pancake blocks shows that Junipero Serra places a strong focus on establishing control at the line of scrimmage.

Scoring and Key Players

Los Gatos averages 31.8 points per game, led by Grayson Doslak, who also contributes 7.2 points per game, while Scotty Brennan adds 132.7 total yards per game. Max Thomas is a key player in the receiving game, averaging 59.6 yards per game, making him a target for Brennan’s passes.

Junipero Serra, while not having detailed player stats listed, still proves effective with their balanced team play and strong performances across the board. The team’s ability to perform well both offensively and defensively gives them a solid foundation for this matchup.

Record Breakdown

• Los Gatos enters the game with an 8-2 record, showing strength both in league play (4-1) and in non-league games (4-1). They have a strong home record of 4-1 and have been just as effective away, with a 4-1 road record.
• Junipero Serra has a 5-5 overall record, including a 4-1 record in league play and a 1-2 record in non-league games. Their away record is slightly weaker at 2-4, but they’ve managed to remain competitive throughout the season.

Key Players to Watch

• Los Gatos: Grayson Doslak (RB) will be crucial for establishing the run game, and Scotty Brennan (QB) will need to continue his efficient passing to maintain balance. Max Thomas (WR) will be another player to watch, as he can create big plays in the air.
• Junipero Serra: While individual player stats are sparse, the team’s overall performance in blocking and controlling the line of scrimmage will likely play a critical role in their chances of winning. The offensive line’s ability to create space for their running backs and protect their quarterback will be key in this matchup.

Conclusion: A Game of Strengths

This matchup presents a clash of styles, with Los Gatos bringing a potent offense and solid defensive unit, while Junipero Serra relies on their strong offensive line and overall team balance. Los Gatos’ well-rounded game plan, highlighted by their rushing and passing success, gives them the edge going into this matchup. However, Junipero Serra’s ability to perform in the trenches, as shown by their impressive pancake blocks, will allow them to dictate the flow of the game.

Both teams are looking to close out the season on a high note, and this game will be crucial for Los Gatos as they look to capitalize on their strong record. Junipero Serra, with its resilience and team-first mentality, will aim to upset the odds and finish the season with a win. Regardless of the outcome, this game is sure to be a highly competitive and exciting contest.