Exciting Start to High School Football Season in San Diego

This weekend marks the kickoff of the 2024 high school football season in San Diego and other parts of California. As fans gear up for games, there’s a buzz in the air about the Preseason top 20 rankings that have just been unveiled. With the excitement building, teams are preparing to showcase their skills and compete for glory.

Leading this year’s rankings is Lincoln High School. Under the experienced guidance of head coach David Dunn, who is entering his 14th season, the Hornets return a talented roster. The standout player is four-star Oregon quarterback commit Akili Smith Jr., supported by running backs Aden Jackson and Donald Reed III, who combined for an impressive 26 touchdowns last season. Their defense is also formidable, featuring one of the deepest secondary groups in San Diego, and their challenging schedule will see them face six out-of-section opponents right off the bat.

Granite Hills comes next, led by head coach Kellan Cobbs. Despite losing some key players, the team still has solid talent. Quarterback Zach Benitez returns alongside leading rusher Maxwell Turner and leading receiver Brenden Lewis. The defense will rely on safety Parker Vance, who had an impressive 63 tackles and five interceptions last season.

Another team to watch is Cathedral Catholic, under the long-serving coach Sean Doyle. After a rough patch last season, the Dons are looking to bounce back. They’ve added talent from rival St. Augustine, though key players like quarterback Brady Palmer won’t be in action until September 26.

Mission Hills, coached by Chris Hauser, aims to break through after consecutive title game losses. They’ll count on quarterback Troy Huhn, who has committed to Penn State, and running back Giovanni Harte, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season.

As other teams prepare for their openings, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Schools like Carlsbad, San Marcos, and La Jolla are all set to prove themselves this season. With strong coaching staffs and promising players, it’s clear that high school football in San Diego is ready to deliver another thrilling season. Fans can expect intense competition and inspiring performances as teams vie for supremacy on the gridiron.