Football: City Section playoffs begin tonight

The City Section football playoffs begin Thursday night, and usually the best game matches No. 8 against No. 9. And in Division I, it’s Crenshaw playing at Venice.

Crenshaw has been winning its playoff matchups against the Gondoliers in years past, but this one will be about which team can run the ball most effectively to enable the quarterbacks to have freedom to pass.

Crenshaw quarterback Daiyan Henley has been a key weapon for the Cougars. Venice freshman quarterback Luca Diamont has come through in big games, but the Gondoliers need a strong performance from running back Justin Cauley, who missed last week’s loss to Palisades with an injury.

Another competitive Division I opener is No. 10 Garfield at No. 7 San Fernando. The Tigers are 10-0 after winning the Valley Mission League. Garfield has played a much tougher schedule. Both teams lost to South Gate on the field but picked up forfeit wins.

In Division II, it’s No. 9 Canoga Park at No. 8 Lincoln. Again, it’s a tossup. Lincoln has been passing the ball behind Michael Cova. Canoga Park QB Andrew Dion has 2,058 yards passing. Both teams are 6-4.

Another interesting matchup in Division II is Washington (3-5) at No. 4 Grant (10-0). Former Dorsey Coach Paul Knox has Washington in the playoffs. The team has been competing in the tough Marine League, so beware.

In Division III, it’s No. 9 Belmont at No. 8 Granada Hills Kennedy.

Here’s the link to complete schedule.

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