CIF Playoffs - Quarterfinals: Top Games

Santa Margarita vs. No. 3 Long Beach Poly - The best game in Southern California features two of the most athletic teams in the Southland. Santa Margarita quarterback Johnny Stanton has controlled every game he's played in this year but will face a physical Jackrabbits defense that has allowed an average of 8 points per game over their last four games. Poly's offense is a classic example of a balanced attack, with a quarterbacks Chaiyse Hales and Nicholas Pope combining for 176 passing yards a game and running backs Manusamoa Luuga and Gerard Wicks combining for 173 rushing yards per game. The game also features two of the most successful coaches in California history. Poly's Raul Lara and Santa Margarita's Harry Welch have created winning cultures at their respective schools and expect nothing less than a excellence from their players. In a championship caliber game, Stanton and the Eagles will come out with the tough win over the Poly Jackrabbits. PICK: Santa Margarita

Charter Oak at No. 3 Upland - The top game in the Inland Empire features two of the top offenses in California. The Upland running game is led by Donta Abron and Christian Powell, two backs who lead a ground game that averages 263 yards per game. Arizona State-commit Kenny Lawler has 952 yards receiving on the year but will have trouble against a strong Charter Oak secondary. Charter Oak's Travis Santiago has had a strong senior campaign for the Chargers but will face the best defense in the Inland Division tonight in Upland. The Baseline League and Sierra League champions have each won the big games this year and this will be the toughest challenge for each team. Upland has been dominant in each contest and their first team offense is yet to be shut down. Expect more of the same tonight. PICK: Upland

San Clemente at St. John Bosco - The St. John Bosco Braves are riding high after an upset road win over fourth ranked Alemany last Friday. Senior quarterback Rene Medina has been savvy in the pocket but came through with a Tebow-like run to cap their first round comeback. Medina will have to be the key to the game for Bosco and will have to distribute the ball to star receiver Bryce Treggs, running back DaVonte Young, and running back Royce Moore. The Braves offense will put points on the board against the Triton defense but their defense will have to stop the dominant San Clemente running game that is averaging almost 250 yards per game. All-American tackle Kyle Murphy anchors a huge offensive line that spells trouble for the Braves' front eight. Expect a close one in Bellflower that will come down to the very end. PICK: St. John Bosco