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CIF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FOOTBALL REGIONAL
DIVISION 2AA
La Habra (11-3) vs. Bakersfield Christian (12-0)
Where, when: Bakersfield Christian High, Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Live coverage: NFHS Network (stream)
Outlook: The Highlanders advanced to the regional for the first time since 2015 by defeating San Jacinto 27-13 in Menifee for the CIF-SS Division 4 crown. In 2015, La Habra lost at Camarillo 63-49 in Division 2AA. That Camarillo team was undefeated after the regional but lost in the state final to Del Oro 16-13.
La Habra will play its third consecutive road game as it faces undefeated Bakersfield Christian.
The Highlanders, under eight-time section championship coach Frank Mazzotta, have turned to their ground attack in the postseason.
Junior running back Kevika Mata’utia-Martinez averaged 162.3 yards on 27 carries in the playoffs.
The Highlanders’ ground-and-pound strategy fits well their strong offensive line and dual-threat quarterback DJ Mitchell. The junior is a dangerous on his feet and has rushed for 689 yards and 11 TDs.
One injury to watch on offense is leading receiver Bryce Vasquez, who was injured last week and didn’t return. The junior said he was hopeful to play this week. He leads La Habra with 62 catches for 1,045 yards and 13 touchdown. Blake Rogers, another junior, has 47 receptions for 905 yards and nine scores.
La Habra’s defense has played its best in the postseason. In the Division 4 playoffs, the unit has allowed 8.5 points per game.
The strength of the defense is at linebacker with leading tacklers Noah Barajas,, Barrett Blied and Mata’utia-Martinez.
Bakersfield Christian defeated Liberty 38-16 on Nov. 21 to capture the Central Section Division 1A title as the No. 1 seed. The Eagles are led by dual threat QB Lincoln Adame (2,337 yards passing) and wide receiver Michael Smith (43 catches, 1,144 yards and 16 TDs).
Arnez Lee has 21 sacks to anchor the defense.
The team is coached by Darren Carr, the brother of former NFL quarterbacks Derek and David Carr.
Prediction: La Habra. The Highlanders are playing physically on both sides of the ball and have improved on defense. They will play the winner of Serra of San Mateo-St. Mary’s.