Mission Viejo secured its third consecutive Alpha League football championship with a 54-44 victory over San Juan Hills in a high-scoring Orange County showdown on Friday night. The Diablos relied on a powerful rushing attack and key explosive plays to outlast their rivals in a contest marked by big gains and late-game drama.
Senior running back Carson Vandermade, returning after missing two games, was instrumental in the win, rushing for 121 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including a notable 52-yard run. Vandermade exited before the fourth quarter, but teammate Jack Junker took over on the ground, finishing with 132 yards and two touchdowns. The Diablos’ offensive line played a crucial role throughout the game, creating significant running lanes. Junior center Max Davidson credited the group’s cohesion and preparation for their success.
Sophomore quarterback Brett Burnor contributed both on the ground and through the air, rushing for two touchdowns and connecting on nine of 12 passes for 188 yards, adding one touchdown and one interception. Senior wide receiver Luke Karby, a Duke commit, was Burnor’s primary target, catching five passes for 122 yards and making multiple contested receptions. Karby also threw a two-point conversion pass in the second quarter.
Mission Viejo head coach Chad Johnson emphasized before the game that limiting San Juan Hills’ big plays would be critical. While the Diablos managed to keep the lead throughout, San Juan Hills stayed close, narrowing the gap to 47-44 late in the fourth quarter following a successful onside kick by senior kicker Trevor Koko. The Stallions capitalized with a quick touchdown drive, creating a tense finish. Mission Viejo ultimately closed out the game with an 11-yard touchdown run by Junker with 40 seconds remaining.
San Juan Hills quarterback Parker Armstrong, filling in as a backup, had an impressive outing, completing 27 of 37 passes for 343 yards and four touchdowns, including an 80-yard score to senior wide receiver Luke Frith, a Texas State commit, and a 57-yard touchdown reception by Cooper Chila. The Stallions repeatedly showcased their athleticism and resilience but could not overcome the Diablos’ offensive onslaught.
San Juan Hills coach Robert Frith praised his team’s effort throughout the game and highlighted the importance of giving their full effort on every play. The contest was fast-paced and action-packed but also featured challenges for Mission Viejo, which committed 18 penalties and suffered three poor snaps on extra-point attempts.
Johnson expressed frustration with what he described as questionable officiating while also stressing the need for his team to improve discipline ahead of the playoffs. With the victory, Mission Viejo is expected to qualify for the Southern Section Division 1 playoffs and will learn its opponent on Sunday. San Juan Hills will conclude its regular season with two losses and await potential placement in the Division 2 playoffs.