As the high school football season progresses, Week 7 brings an exciting lineup of matchups across the Bay Area. Featured games include a clash between Campolindo and Monte Vista, as well as McClymonds facing Oakland Tech at Laney College. The Bay Area News Group will provide comprehensive coverage throughout the weekend, available at mercurynews.com/sports and eastbaytimes.com/sports.
Thursday Night Showdowns
The action kicks off on Thursday, October 9, with a significant league opener in the Blossom Valley Athletic League’s Mt. Hamilton Division. Lincoln of San Jose (5-0) visits Branham (4-1) at 19:15. This matchup features standout players such as Lincoln’s Kyan Phillips, a four-year varsity player boasting 447 rushing yards and 315 receiving yards this season. Branham’s sophomore quarterback, Andrew Ho, has also made a strong impression in his first year, throwing for 903 yards and leading his team in scoring. HSRatings.com forecasts a close contest, predicting a 42-35 victory for Branham.
Another highlight on Thursday is the game between Washington-Fremont (3-1) and Irvington (4-1) at Tak Fudenna Stadium, also at 19:00. Although nominally a home game for Irvington, Washington may have the edge playing on its own campus. The Vikings are equipped with a talented lineup, including junior quarterback Vivaan Tiwari and senior running backs Ruben Sanchez and Santino Sandoval. HSRatings.com anticipates a narrow 40-35 win for Irvington.
Woodside (5-0) will also be in action against Hillsdale (2-3) at 19:00. Historically, Hillsdale has dominated this rivalry, but Woodside enters the game with strong momentum, having won all five non-league games by at least 21 points. The Wildcats’ Daniel Torres has been a standout performer, rushing for 466 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns. HSRatings.com predicts Woodside to triumph with a score of 35-8.
Friday Night Highlights
On Friday, October 10, No. 9 Archbishop Mitty (4-1) faces No. 14 St. Francis (1-4) at 19:00. Mitty has surprised many this season with victories over formidable opponents, while St. Francis has faced a tough non-league schedule. Despite losing their last five encounters with St. Francis, Mitty’s current form, driven by running back Lazaro Faraj-Washington and quarterback Joseph Engin, positions them as the likely winners, with HSRatings.com predicting a 28-20 win.
No. 10 Campolindo (5-0) will take on No. 16 Monte Vista (4-1) at 19:00. Averaging 37 points per game, Campolindo is led by wide receiver Everett Zellmer and running back Micah Parker. Monte Vista’s only loss this season came against Archbishop Riordan, but the team aims to leverage its home field advantage. HSRatings.com projects a close game, favoring Monte Vista with a 34-31 prediction.
Saturday Showdowns
The weekend concludes with a series of exciting games on Saturday, October 11. Oakland Tech (2-3) will challenge No. 11 McClymonds (3-2) at Laney College at 19:00. McClymonds has not lost to an Oakland Athletic League team in over 15 years, but Oakland Tech aims to break that streak. The game also features standout players like quarterback Elijah Rucker and McClymonds’ quarterback Berell Staples. HSRatings.com forecasts a 35-3 victory for McClymonds.
In another intriguing match, Santa Teresa (5-0) will visit Live Oak (5-0) at 19:15. Santa Teresa’s performance has been impressive, and this game will serve as a significant test for both teams. Live Oak’s Gage Jones is a key player, rushing for nearly 200 yards per game. HSRatings.com predicts a thrilling contest, with Santa Teresa expected to win by a narrow margin of 35-34.
As high school football fans gear up for a weekend filled with action, the Bay Area’s young athletes are set to showcase their talents on the field. The outcomes of these matchups could have significant implications for league standings and playoff aspirations as the season continues.
