CIF Southern Section 2026 High School Quarterback Battles Intensify

High school football programs in California's CIF Southern Section are gearing up for fierce competition over the starting quarterback (QB1) role ahead of the 2026 season, which begins on August 21. At Mater Dei, transfer Russell Sekona Jr. is the frontrunner, while veteran Cameron Pooley Sr. also vies for the spot. Sierra Canyon sees seniors Demarco Hernandez and Ian Patterson battling for the lead position. Orange Lutheran's quarterbacks Reagan Toki and Ezrah Brown split time, with Brown attracting college interest from Miami and UCLA. Oaks Christian features three contenders—Niko Bladow, Tallis Payne and freshman Cody Bird—under new coach Rudy Carlton. Gardena Serra's Malik Tunai defends his starter status against promising freshman Hassir Houston, and Corona del Mar lists Luca DiNapoli among its options. The outcomes of these quarterback races will shape each team's offensive prospects for the upcoming season.