CIF-SS Football Playoff Pairings: What to Expect in 2023
The CIF Southern Section (CIF-SS) football playoffs are set to begin soon, with brackets to be released on Sunday morning. Teams will be categorized into one of the 14 playoff divisions based on their rankings from HSratings.com. This ranking system utilizes current-season results to determine playoff placements and seedings.
CIF-SS Football Playoff Structure
- Division structure includes 14 playoff divisions.
- Teams ranked by HSratings.com determine placement.
- Guaranteed playoff spots for top-performing teams in leagues.
Division Rankings and Playoffs
In Division 1, the playoffs are expected to feature eight teams. Recent discussions among CIF-SS coaches have suggested all 14 divisions should organize into 16-team brackets. The current ranking indicates a significant gap between the eighth team, likely either Servite or Orange Lutheran, and the ninth team, potentially Murrieta Valley, Chaparral, or Vista Murrieta.
If Division 1 remains an eight-team setup, the first round of playoffs will take place on November 14. Potential matchups include:
- Orange Lutheran or Servite at St. John Bosco
- Orange Lutheran or Servite at Sierra Canyon
- Santa Margarita at Corona Centennial
- Mission Viejo vs. Mater Dei at Santa Ana Stadium
Expectations in Other Divisions
Other divisions, including Division 2, are anticipated to consist of 16 teams. Key Orange County teams competing may include:
- Corona del Mar
- Crean Lutheran
- JSerra
- Los Alamitos
- San Clemente
- San Juan Hills
- Tustin
JSerra’s position in the playoffs is uncertain, given its current record. Recent forfeits by Norco may enhance JSerra’s chances for an at-large bid despite the challenges faced in the Trinity League.
Looking Ahead: Potential Matchups
Division 3 may feature Edison, depending on the outcome against San Clemente. Other strong contenders from Orange County in this division include:
- Capistrano Valley
- Dana Hills
- Laguna Beach
- Huntington Beach
- Yorba Linda
Teams such as La Habra and Troy are expected to perform well in Divisions 4 and 5, respectively. Western might receive an at-large berth in Division 5. Other intriguing matchups to watch include Pacifica in Division 10 and Saddleback in Division 13.
Challenges Ahead
The playoff system may leave some deserving teams without chances due to a limited number of available at-large spots. Such dynamics routinely affect the CIF-SS football playoffs.
The CIF-SS has selected the Rose Bowl as the venue for this year’s Division 1 final, while other stadiums have been ruled out due to seating requirements. Upcoming CIF-SS events also include girls volleyball semifinals, highlighting the competitive spirit across various sports.
As excitement builds for the CIF-SS football playoffs, teams and fans alike await the official bracket release, which will undoubtedly shape the postseason landscape.
