News Summary
In a remarkable achievement, Mission Viejo has secured the top spot in the Orange County football poll with an impressive 4-0 record. The Diablos showcased their strength by defeating Lincoln, San Diego County’s leading team, 34-24. Key player performances, including standout contributions on both offense and defense, have propelled Mission Viejo to this new height. Looking ahead, they will take on McCallie from Tennessee as they aim to extend their perfect record.
Mission Viejo, California – In a stunning turn of events, Mission Viejo has claimed the top position in the Orange County football poll for the first time in years, achieving a perfect record of 4-0 with 74 points. The Diablos solidified their rank after defeating Lincoln, the top team in San Diego County, with a score of 34-24.
Star performances from key players played a significant role in Mission Viejo’s recent success. Two-time All-Orange County receiver Vance Spafford made a noteworthy return with six receptions totaling 75 yards and a touchdown. Jack Junker also had a strong performance, adding six receptions, including one touchdown. On the defensive side, Brady Bowman stood out with 11 tackles and an interception, contributing significantly to the team’s victory.
Next, Mission Viejo will face McCallie, a Tennessee-based team with a record of 3-1. This matchup promises to be critical as the Diablos look to maintain their momentum.
Mater Dei, previously the top-ranked team, has now dropped to second place in the poll with a record of 2-1 and 71 points. Their recent game against Centennial of Corona did not go as planned, ending in a 43-36 loss marred by seven turnovers and allowing 234 rushing yards. Mater Dei had previously edged out Kahuku and St. Thomas Aquinas, both games being won by a mere three points each. The team is set to face Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas this week, who recently secured a decisive 38-0 victory over Kahuku.
Tied with Mater Dei at the No. 2 position is Santa Margarita, holding a record of 3-1. Santa Margarita achieved a commendable 44-14 win against Oaks Christian, boosted by sophomore Grant Mosley, who caught seven passes for 92 yards, scoring one touchdown. They have a bye this week before playing Bishop Gorman on September 27.
Orange Lutheran is at the No. 4 spot with a record of 3-1, following a strong performance against Serra, winning 35-14. Key contributions included Nico Bland, who caught seven passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. In fifth place is Servite, which holds a record of 3-1 after a close win over Notre Dame, finishing at 29-23.
Los Alamitos is currently ranked No. 6 with an impressive 5-0 record, recently defeating St. Paul 48-14. Yorba Linda follows at No. 7 with a 4-0 record after a convincing win against Esperanza, scoring 35-7. San Juan Hills has fallen to No. 8 with a record of 3-1 following a loss to Rockwall-Heath in Texas, where the score was 34-26.
Edison finds itself ranked No. 9 with a 3-1 record, having achieved a comeback win over Palos Verdes by a narrow margin of 21-20. Meanwhile, JSerra has re-entered the Top 10 at No. 10 with a hard-fought victory over Oak Hills, winning 24-21.
Other teams in the Orange County football poll include Crean Lutheran at No. 11, Tustin at No. 12, La Habra at No. 13, and San Clemente at No. 14. El Toro has made headlines by securing a decisive 56-14 victory over the previously-ranked Trabuco Hills, placing them at No. 21. Laguna Beach is close behind, ranked No. 22 after a win against Tesoro, finishing 36-15.
As the Orange County football schedule continues, several high school matchups are planned for September 18-19, providing fans with numerous opportunities to support their teams. With rankings and scores continually shifting, the competition in Orange County remains fierce and exciting.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mission Viejo Triumphs Over Lincoln in High School Football
Mission Viejo Diablos Secure Victory Against Lincoln Hornets
Saddleback Bobcats Win Big Against Citrus College
Bishop Montgomery’s Football Program Faces Major Shakeup
Mission Viejo and Lincoln High School Set to Clash in Football Showdown
JD Hill Shines as a Top Prospect in Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo Football Team Stages Dramatic Fourth Quarter Comeback
Mission Viejo Diablos Defeat Lincoln Hornets in High School Football Showdown
Mission Viejo Diablos Rally to Victory Over Lincoln Hornets
Lincoln High School vs Mission Viejo High School Football Showdown
Additional Resources
- Orange County Football Schedule for the Week 4 Games
- Week Four Orange County High School Football Schedule
- Orange County Football Top 25: Mater Dei Falls, Mission Viejo Rises to No. 1
- Orange County High School Football Final Scores for September 5
- Google Search: Orange County High School football
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
