West - Game Notes
SMCHS Eagles (0-0) vs West Panthers (0-0)
at Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, California)
Friday, August 18, 2023 - 7:00 p.m.
Original PDF
RECAP OF 2022 SEASON / OUTLOOK FOR 2023
35th Season of Eagles Football
The 2023 season represents the 35th year of Santa Margarita Catholic football. The first 34 years are completely documented in minute detail on the website dedicated to SMCHS varsity gridiron history: www.eaglesfootball.com. Every game, every record for a game, season and full career are listed and current. In addition, weekly individual and team game and cumulative statistics are availabe at: www.maxpreps.com/ca/rancho-santa-margarita/santa-margarita-eagles/football/. Click on the “Stats” button at the top of the page.
Opening Game Live-Stream Broadcast
vs. West (Salt Lake City) on NFHS Network by B&N Productions
www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/cifss/gam2f4bf64724
Note: Subscription needed to access all NFHS games (multiple sports) online. Valid for entire 2023-24 school year.
Brief 2022 Recap
The 2022 football season ended in disappointment for SMCHS as they were eliminated from the CIF-Southern Section Division 1 playoffs in the first round by rival JSerra Catholic. All throughout the season, the Eagle’s potent offense was on display and able to strike for 406.9 all-purpose yards-per-game versus a stout opponent defenses each week. The air force finshed the year just under 3,000 yards passing (2,939) and an impressive 30 touchdowns. The offensive machine was really in high gear when they struck for 612 yards of total offense at Los Alamitos. In the same contest, the team registed 742 all-purpose yards. The defense put consistent pressure on some talented arsenals in the Trinity League. Overall, they were able to register 48 tackles for loss and 28 quartreback sacks. The Homecoming Game versus rival JSerra Catholic saw a sellout crowd of 8,000 fill Saddleback College Stadium.
Season Opening Games
- SMC’s all-time record in season opening games is 25-8-1 (.750) with a streak of three wins-in-a-row
- The all-time record in home opening games is 22-10-1 (.682)
Out-of-State Opponents
- SMCHS is 5-5-0 all-time versus out-of-state opponents. The Eagles have won their last two such contests, after having a spell where they dropped those five games in succession
- SMCHS is 0-1 all-time versus Utah schools, having bowed to Orem in 2018
2023 Player Personnel
The 2023 Eagles club will feature a mosaic of personnel comprising the varsity roster of over 72 athletes currently. This is a mixture of returning lettermen, rising freshman and junior varsity players and key transfers. Returnees on the offensive side of the ball include several at the skill positions with significant varsity experience. They include tight end Kyle Brody, running back Skylar Lendsey and receivers Trent Mosley and Sean Embree. The defense welcomes back a formidable trio of linebackers that all earned league honors. Noah Sulick, LeVar Talley and Gage Burnett will frustrate opposing offensive coordinators. Some of the transfers counted upon are quarterback James Johnson, offensive lineman Ivan Pena and defensive tackle Cameron Brickle II.
Returning SMCHS Trinity League Honorees
First-Team - Defense
LeVar Talley - Edge / Linebacker
Second-Team - Defense
Gage Burnett - Linebacker and
Noah Sulick - Linebacker
Honorable Mention - Offense
Skylar Lendsey - Running Back
Sean Embree - Wide Receiver
Kyle Brody - Tight End
Grant Degulis - Offensive Lineman
E.J. Thomas - Offensive Lineman
Honorable Mention - Defense
Jayden Dose - Defensive Lineman
Judah Moenoa - Defensive Lineman
Coaching Staff
Head Coach Anthony Rouzier has assembled and established a solid coaching staff, for each position group, during his tenure at SMC. The staff has bonded and develped continunity which has led to confidence and respect from players at all three levels. The staff have supported numerous players with their growth both personally and athlertically. Many of those athletes have moved on to be successful in Division1 programs throughout the nation.
Schedule Strength
As usual, the Eagles face one of the toughest regular (and postseason) schedules in the entire nation in 2023. Over the last several years this has been valdiated by multiple outles -- primarily through cpmplex calculations provided by CalPreps.com. The company utilizes a wide variety of factors in conjunction with their propietray mathemtaical formula to determine the level of difficulty for every school nationawide.
With the six schools comprising the Trinity League, it is possible (and likely) that ALL six secure the top six slots for the toughest schedules in the country as the season progresses. Recalcualtions are done each week based upon game results.
CalPreps has not released its first calculation at this time. However, MaxPreps.com, another reliable outlet, has touted the Eagles as having the eighth-hardest schedule. Below, schools highlighted in red indicate SMCHS opponents in Trinity Legaue or nonleague action.
1. St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Maryland)
2. St. John Bosco
3. Mater Dei
4. Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, Florida)
5. Lutheran (Orange)
6. Centennial (Corona)
7. IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
8. Santa Margarita Catholic
9. St. John's (Washington, D.C.)
10. Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Scrimmage Versus Mission Viejo
By: Dan Albano | Orange County Register | August 11, 2023
- Santa Margarita ran the ball effectively early in the scrimmage with Skylar Lendsey absorbing the bulk of the work. The sophomore capped the opening drive with a short touchdown run.
- The Eagles also found success through the air as new starting quarterback James Johnson tossed a long touchdown strike to junior Sean Embree to extend the lead to 14-0. The duo almost connected for another long touchdown later but the pass fell incomplete.
- The Eagles’ defense, now led by new coordinator John Arredondo, deployed a new-look 3-4 front.
- One visible change saw Nevada commit LeVar Talley move from the defensive end/edge position to outside linebacker. The senior teamed with Noah Sulick and Gage Burnett, who were the inside linebackers.
POLL RANKINGS
Many of the reputable media outlets have released their initial preseason poll rankings. Each season, SMCHS is well represented in all of the local, section, state and national polls from beginning to end. Here are the recent rankings:
| Media Outlet | Rank | Geographic Area |
| Cal-Hi Sports / calhisports.com | 19 | State |
| Orange County Register | 6 | Orange County |
| High School Football America | 10 | Southern California |
| CalPreps.com | 9 | State |
| 7 | Southern Section - Division 1 | |
| scorebooklive.com / SBLive | 9 | Southern Section |
| MaxPreps.com | 95 | Nation |
| 9 | State | |
| 7 | Southern Section | |
| 4 | Orange County | |
| Massey Ratings | 88 | Nation |
| 10 | State | |
| 9 | Southern Section | |
| 7 | Orange County |
PLAYER NOTES, HIGHLIGHTS & STATS
Skylar Lendsey
#0 | Running Back | Sophomore | 5-10 / 190
- Named in the first rankings for the class of 2026 by PrepRedzone.com - State Overall: 104 | State Position: 4 | National: Watch List
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- Lauded by Micheal Huntley in the Orange County Register as a key underclass contributor for the Eagles (10/26/22)
- Contributed a game-high 81 yards on four attempts (20.3 average), with a long of 60 yards, in huge win over Servite
- Recognized by PrepRedzone.com and anaylst Jake Lemming as one of the Top 7 “Emerging Freshmen Running Backs in the Country.” The scouting report:
- Able to stick his foot in the dirt and generate immediate acceleration
- Can get downhill FAST
- Shows almost no deceleration when working through arm tackles
- Has reliable hands as a receiving threat out of the backfield
- Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Fall 2022
- Rushed for 92 yards in second-career varsity game in big win over Norco in 2022
Gage Burnett
#1 | Outside Linebacker / Long Snapper | Senior | 6-0 / 223
- Ranked No. 85 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 159 overall and No. 19 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Cited by Greg Biggins of 247sports.com and Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the Top Performers at the Allegiance Athletics Linemen Showcase in Spring
- Invited to and participated the prestigious 2023 Rivals Camp Series held in mid-March at Warren HS (Downey)
- Ranked the No. 31 prospect in the nation and No. 4 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz and Under The Radar
- Selected as the Gauntlet Award winner -- given to the junior who will carry the torch for leadership next season
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
- In his first game in an SMCHS uniform, after transfer, logged five tackles (1 for loss) and one sack in loss to Orange Lutheran
- Ranked the No. 107 overall and No. 14 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
- Ranked No. 73 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
- Ranked the No. 71 overall and No. 10 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
- Named by Orange County Register as a 2022 Spring Football “Top Impact Transfer in Orange County”
- Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
- Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February 2022. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins and PrepRedzone.com’s Michael Huntley for a “strong showing” at the event
- Transferred to SMCHS during the winter semester from Servite
- Ranked the No. 71 overall prospect and No. 10 at linebacker in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- ★★★★ recruit with 4 Division 1 offers from Army-West point, Arizona, Fordham and Massachusetts
- Played in all 13 games for Servite in Fall 2021 and registered 38 tackles, two sacks and recovered two fumbles
Trent Mosley
#5 | Wide Receiver | Sophomore | 5-11 / 155
- Ranked No. 30 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Named the No. 6 wide receiver/tight end in Orange County for the 2023 season by journalist Dan Albano
- Selected as an Underclass All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Multi-Purpose
- Ranked the No. 11 prospect in the nation and No. 3 in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Spring, 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Praised by Dan Albano of the Orange County Register as “Showing His Burst” two long touchdowns at the “Battle of he Beach” in July
- Ranked the No. 26 prospect in the nation and No. 7 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2026
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Frosh Watch List
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Offense
- Logged 94 yards on five receptions (18.8 average) in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic -- a career-high. Also scored one touchdown (71 yards). Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com
- Registered second career touchdown versus St. John Bosco in regular season finale
- Lauded by Micheal Huntley in the Orange County Register as a key underclass contributor for the Eagles (10/26/22)
- Along with brother Emmett, scored a touchdown in defeat to Los Alamitos in 2022. In doing so, they became the first set of brothers at SMCHS to achieve this since Brad and Brian Finneran did so, four times, in 1992
- Along with teammates Bain Eiseman and Emmett Mosley (brother), notched over 100 receiving yards in loss at Los Alamtios
- Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Fall 2022
- After the Summer “Battle at the Beach,” the Orange County Register boasted that receiver Mosley flashed skills beyond his years and was arguably the top freshman in Orange County this season
- Has received offers from Oregon, Michigan State, Texas A&M, USC, San Diego State, Stanford and Notre Dame
Luke Anderson
#8 | Defensive Back | Junior | 6-0 / 170
- Coach Rouz cited Anderson as being an impact player for the team in 2023 after his performance at the “Battle of the Beach”
- In first varsity start, registered three assisted tackles in win at San Juan Hills in 2022
- Saw action in two varsity games in 2021. In 42-21 win over Los Alamitos, had one kickoff return for six yards and notched four total tackles
- In a freshman game versus Los Alamitos, scored a long rushing touchdown, made a key block for a teammate that led to a score and played solid defense in a 53-0 victory
James Johnson
#9 | Quarterback | Junior | 6-1 / 175
- Ranked No. 90 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Transferred to SMCHS at start of Spring semester after attending Servite as a sophomore and Mater Dei as a freshman
- Played in a handful of games in 2022 at Servite. Highlight moment was a 77-yard touchdown pass to Tyler McCown, but the Friars fell to Helix (La Mesa), 38-31
- Saw action in five games at Mater Dei in freshman seaosn (2021) where he was 5-of-10 for 49 yards
Emmett Mosley
#10 | Defensive Back | Senior | 6-0 / 205
- Ranked the No. 28 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Named the No. 16 senior recruit in the state by Cal-Hi Sports in their fall 2023 “Hot 100” list
- Despite injury, selected as a Preseason All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Third-Team
- Selected as a Senior All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Has committed to play in the annual All-American Bowl at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas -- nationally televised live on NBC and Peacock -- features the nation’s top 100 high school football players
- Committed to Stanford
- Ranked the No. 16 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Spring, 2023
- Electric highlights of 2022 season posted on MaxPreps.com
- Ranked the No. 2 overall and No. 13 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter, 2023
- 2022 Prep Redzone All-Southern California Junior Team - Offense
- Ranked the No. 28 prospect in the nation and No. 12 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Represented by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zguG2NyPpU
- Named the No. 3 in California and No. 24 recruit in the nation at wide receiver by QB Hit List for the Class of 2024 in January, 2023 (★★★★)
- Selected to the Division 1 CIF All-Southern Section Team
- Selected as an Underclass All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) in January, 2023
- 2022 All-Orange County (by Orange County Register) First-Team - Offense
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
- 2022 All-Trinity League First-Team - Offense
- Selected SMCHS Offensive Most Valuable Player
- Registered 78 pass recptions for the season -- second-most in school history and most by a junior
| Most Pass Receptions Single Season - SMCHS - All-Time |
||
| RECEIVER | RECEPTIONS | SEASON |
| Kyle Sweet | 89 | 2014 |
| Emmett Mosley | 78 | 2022 |
| Brian Finneran | 74 | 1992 |
| John Minardi | 70 | 1997 |
| Conner Bianchini | 68 | 2014 |
| Brian Finneran | 67 | 1993 |
| Niko Lopez | 65 | 2021 |
- Gained 127 yards receiving with six receptions (21.2 average) and one touchdown in lopsided win over Servite in 2022. Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com
- Hauled in 14 pass receptions for 156 yards and one touchdown in win over JSerra Catholic on 2022 Homecoming. The 14 catches are tied for second-most in a single game in school history. Cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com along with teammate Niko Lopez
| Most Pass Receptions Single Game - SMCHS All-Time |
|||
| RECEIVER | RECEPTIONS | OPPONENT | SEASON |
| Kyle Sweet | 15 | Dorsey (Los Angeles) | 2014 |
| Kyle Sweet | 15 | Orange Lutheran | 2014 |
| Emmett Mosley | 14 | JSerra Catholic | 2022 |
| Brian Finneran | 14 | @ Damien (La Verne) - CIF | 1993 |
| Grant Calcaterra | 14 | Loyola | 2016 |
- Online feature on gridironfootballusa.com -- “Top 300: Emmett Mosley” (By Lucas Berger -- September 26, 2022)
- In loss to Orange Lutheran, registered his second-consecutive game with three touchdown receptions. That is good for second-place, all alone, in program history. Cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com
| Most Receiving Touchdowns SMCHS - Single Game All-Time |
||
| RECEIVER | TD REC | TIMES ACHIEVED |
| John Minardi | 3 | 5 |
| Emmett Mosley | 3 | 2 |
| Six-Tied | 3 | 1 |
- Ranked as the No. 91 overall recruit prospect in the nation for the Class of 2024 by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst in Fall 2022 (★★★★ +)
- Along with brother Trent, scored a touchdown in defeat to Los Alamitos. In doing so, they became the first set of brothers at SMCHS to achieve this since Brad and Brian Finneran did so, four times, in 1992
| Brothers Scoring Touchdowns SMCHS - Same Game All-Time |
||
| PLAYERS | OPPONENT | SEASON |
| Emmett Mosley | @ Los Alamitos | 2022 |
| Trent Mosley | ||
| Brad Finneran | @ Newport Harbor | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | @ Tustin | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | Buena Park | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | St. John Bosco | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
- Along with teammates Bain Eiseman and Niko Lopez, notched over 100 receiving yards in loss at Los Alamtios in 2022 (146). Tied a school record with three touchdown receptions in a single game. Named a “Top So Cal Star” by scorebooklive.com and nominated for So Cal Sports Athlete of the Week plus cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com
- Ranked as a one of the premier underclass wide receiver recruit prospects in the West by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst in Summer 2022
- With nine eight catches versus Norco (2022), had second-consecutive game with eight-or-more receptions to start SMCHS career
- Had a solid performance in his fist game in an SMCHS uniform at San Juan Hills (Week 0 in 2022) -- 9 receptions for 94 yards and one touchdown. Cited by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for “Honorable Mention” performance
- Cal-Hi Sports 2022 Preseason All-State Third-Team - Defense (DB)
- Ranked the No. 13 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
- Ranked No. 10 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
- Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County First-Team - Defense selection
- Ranked the No. 3 wide receiver in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Niko Lopez was the No. 5 selection
- Ranked the No. 13 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
- No. 12 ranked prospect in state “Hot 100” from Class of 2024 by Cal-Hi Sports
- Cited as a “Top Offensive Performer” at the Mission Viejo Passing Tournament by PrepRedzone.com and has improved his speed greatly this offseason
- Named by Orange County Register as a 2022 Spring Football “Top Impact Transfer in Orange County”
- Received an invitation to attend the Annual Blue-Gold Game (Notre Dame Football Spring Scrimmage) in South Bend, Indiana on April 23 -- Reserved for top Class of 2024 recruits (Reported by Tom Loy - 247sports.com)
- Selected by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) as a National Recruit and All-American from the Class of 2024 for photo shoot in Westwood, California (UCLA) in April, 2022
- Ranked the No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 athlete position in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- Ranked No. 40 overall and No. 26 by position prospect in the nation and No. 3 prospect in state by QB Hit List (qbhitlist.com) for Class of 2024
- Transferred to SMCHS during the winter semester from Servite
- Ranked the No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 at athlete position in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- Highly-recruited player was sidelined much of the Fall 2021 season by injury
- Received offers from Alabama, Arizona, Arizona State, Georgia, Colorado, LSU, Oregon, Penn State, USC, Clemson, Iowa, Texas, Utah, Texas A&M, Washington, Massachusetts, Michigan State, California, UCLA, Miami (Florida), Stanford and Notre Dame
- Has been clocked at 11.47 in the 100-meters (2021 @ Servite)
- Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2021 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense (DB)
- Selected as a preseason MaxPreps.com Sophomore All-American in Fall 2021
- Celebrated his best moment of Fall 2021 season as he debuted versus Mater Dei and blocked a punt that a teammate returned for a score
LeVar Talley
#11 | Defensive End / Linebacker | Senior | 6-3 / 210
- Named by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times as a Linebacker to Watch this Fall in Southland Football
- Ranked No. 69 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 77 overall and No. 11 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Named the No. 68 senior recruit in the state by Cal-Hi Sports in their fall 2023 “Hot 100” list
- Selected as a Preseason All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- ★★★ + recruit who has committed to Nevada and also had offers from Louisville, Colorado, Georgia, Virginia Tech, Florida State, Pittsburgh, Nevada-Las Vegas and USC. Has made unofficial visits to USC, UCLA, Fresno State, Washington and Oregon
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Invited to and participated in the Under Armour Next Camp showcase in April
- Solidified by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the top uncommitted recruits in Southern California in Winter, 2023
- Ranked the No. 3 overall and No. 26 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter, 2023
- Ranked the No. 51 prospect in the nation and No. 6 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Represented by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company -- www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCSMF70ySQc
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
- 2022 All-Trinity League First-Team - Defense
- Selected as team captain for the season -- only junior class player
- Collected one sack in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic last season, brining season total to 5 1/2 which led club. Also contributed 6 1/2 tackles for loss
- Logged five tackles (2 1/2 for loss) and 1 1/2 sacks, bringing his career total to 9 for SMC, in the 2022 loss to Mater Dei
- Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com for effort in win over Servite in 2022
- Registered one sack in win over JSerra Catholic on 2022 Homecoming
- Ranked as a one of the premier underclass linebacker recruit prospects in the West by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst
- scorebooklive.com (SBLive) 2022 Preseason All-State Third-Team - Defense selection
- scorebooklive.com (SBLive) 2022 Preseason All-Southern Section Second-Team - Defense selection
- Ranked the No. 26 overall and No. 3 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
- Ranked No. 62 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
- Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County First-Team - Defense selection
- Ranked the No. 21 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
- No. 64 ranked prospect in state “Hot 100” from Class of 2024 by Cal-Hi Sports
- Ranked the No. 11 Top Defensive Line prospect in Southern California by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company
- Received recognition from Cal Preps - Rivals
- No. 9 ranked (For all classes) defensive lineman in the nation at Camp Series
- No. 14 ranked weak side defensive end in the nation for Class of 2024
- Recognized by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) as a prospect that “shows a very quick get off, strong hands, excellent foot work, loose hips and great attitude -- dominates the point of attack” in May, 2022
- Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
- Invited to and participated in the Under Armour Next Camp Series at Mission Viejo High School in March. Also named a Top Defensive Performer by PrepRedzone.com. Also noted as a player to watch by Greg Biggins of 247sports.com
- Invited to and participated in the first stop in the 2022 Cal Preps - Rivals Camp Series held at East Los Angeles College. Named the positional Most Valuable Player - Defensive Line in February. Also named a Top Defensive Performer by PrepRedzone.com
- Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins for a “strong showing” at the event
- Ranked the No. 1 defensive line prospect “riser” in state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- Ranked the No. 21 overall prospect and No. 2 defensive lineman in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
- Fall 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
- In Fall 2021, was second on the team in sacks (4.5) and tackles for loss (10)
- Enjoyed an outstanding game on defense in loss at Mater Dei -- logged five tackles (4 for loss) and three quarterback sacks
- Had one quarterback sack in win over Nolan Catholic in 2021. Recognized by the Orange County Register’s with “Huntley’s Hits” for Week 4
Izley Manutai
#13 | Wide Receiver / Defensive Back | Sophomore | 5-10 / 160
- Transferred from Desert Pines (Las Vegas, Nevada)
- On varsity team as a freshman, collected 4 receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown
Lennie “Trey” Brown
#15 | Safety | Sophomore | 5-9 / 157
- Registered first career sack in loss to Orange Lutheran in 2022
Hayes Cloutier
#17 | Quarterback | Freshman | 6-1 / 170
- Was a standout and award winner at the two-day “Football University” camp held in FBU Las Vegas – Impressed coaches and was named to the All-Camp Team
Sean Embree
#21 | Tight End | Junior | 6-4 / 170
- ★★★ recruit
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- In first-ever game in a SMCHS uniform, registered two recpetions for 30 yards, including one touchdown on the opening drive in win over Norco in 2022
Brock deFries
#24 | Defensive Back | Junior | 5-9 / 170
- National Preps Combine at NFL Pro Bowl in February, 2023 in Las Vegas
- Collected first career interception versus St. John Bosco in final game of regular season
- Blocked a punt in his first varsity game action versus Mullen (Colorado) in 2022
Aisa Taeleifi
#33 | Linebacker | Sophomore | 6-1 / 220
- Invited to and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series in Spring. Noted by Michael Huntley or PredRedzone.com as one of the to Class of 2024 Newcomers in Orange County
- Named in the first rankings for the class of 2026 by PrepRedzone.com - State Overall: 95 | State Position: 9 | National: Watch List
- Invited and participated in the National Preps Champion Showcase Series held in May
- Invited and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series! In late March
Noah Sulick
#43 | Linebacker | Senior | 6-0 / 205
- Ranked No. 115 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023 -- “Mr. Steady”
- Cited by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as a top performer on the SMCHS defense in the “Battle of the Beach”
- During the offseason, visited Hawaii
- Selected by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as a “great fit” to play in the 2024 Orange County North-South All-Star Classic
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
- Finished third on team with 70 tackles. Also registered four sacks
- Tied career-high for tackles in a game with 12 in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic last season
- Logged a team-leading 12 tackles in 2022 regular season finale versus St. John Bosco
- Had the best game of his career, thus far, as he registered five tackles (3 for loss), 2 /12 sacks and one quarterback hurry in victory over Mullen (Colorado) in 2022. Lauded by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the Southern Section’s top defensive performers of the week
- Contributed a solid performance in the season-opening win at San Juan Hills with 10 total tackles (4 for loss) and one-and-a-half quarterback sacks. Praised by Mitch Stephens of scorebooklive.com and Michael Huntley of the Orange County Register - “Fear the “D”, SMC’s defense looked in midseason form”
- Noah is the third Sulick family member to wear the number 43, going along with uncle Tim ‘93 and brother Drew ’21 -- graduates from SMC. His father, also an SMCHS alumni, played football and wore number 72
- Named as a “top player” on SMCHS roster by scorebooklive.com in season preview
- Praised by PrepRedzone.com for performances on the “passing league” circuit
- One of the leaders that emerged on defense, notched 42 total tackles (7th) with nine for loss (2nd) for the 2021 Fall season
- Registered first career interception in the win over Orange Lutheran in the 2021 regular season finale
- Enjoyed the best game of his young career against Nolan Catholic: four tackles, three tackles-for-loss and one-and-a-half quarterback sacks.
Jayden Dose
#50 | Defensive Tackle | Senior | 5-10 / 229
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Defense
- Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022
Grant Degulis
#52 | Offensive Lineman | Junior | 6-1 / 285
- Attended the Redlands Summer Camp Series in June, 2023 with more than 15 Division 1 scouts in attendance
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- Invited to attend the 2022 U.S. Army Bowl National Combine in Frisco, Texas in mid-December
- Attended Jesse Sapolu’s “Men in the Trenches” (MITT) Linemen Academy in February and March, 2022
- A member of the SMCHS wrestling team
Zander “Tank” Benitez
#56 | Offensive Lineman | Senior | 6-1 / 260
- Invited to and participated in the Recruit My Lineman National Showcase in mid-March held in Westerville, Ohio
- 2023 offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz at the “Mecca” (5-on-5) in Atlanta and Utah
- 2022 offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz at the “Mecca” (5-on-5)
Judah Moenoa
#57 | DL/OL | Senior | 6-1 / 250
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Defense
- In first varsity game action, registered five tackles (2 for loss) and one sack in loss to Orange Lutheran
Joseph “Joey” Lopez
#64 | Offensive Lineman | Sophomore | 6-5 / 315
- Ranked the No. 116 overall prospect in the state for the Class of 2025 by PrepRedzone.com in Fall, 2023
- Named the “Top Offensive Performer” at “The Arrival Camp” in So Cal in early-February
- Has received offers from North Carolina-Charlotte University, Houston Christian and Jacksonville State
Ivan Pena
#72 | Offensive Tackle | Sophomore | 6-6 / 290
- Comes to SMCHS as one of the top rated players at his position by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Nevada: No. 12 prospect overall and No. 2 prospect at position
Jacob Maiava
#75 | Offensive Lineman / Defensive Lineman | Junior | 6-2 / 290
- Leads team with 13 decleaters
Ethan “E.J.” Thomas
#77 | Offensive Lineman | Junior | 6-4 / 298
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
Kyle Brody
#88 | Tight End | Senior | 6-4 / 235
- Ranked No. 126 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 204 overall and No. 9 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Third-Team
- Has committed to play at the United States Air Force Academy
- Noted as one of the possible breakout stars of the upcoming 2023 season by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times
- Named the No. 3 in California and No. 62 recruit in the nation at tight end by QB Hit List for the Class of 2024 in January, 2023 (★★★)
- Has received offers from Nevada-Las Vegas, San Jose State, Sacramento State and Pitt
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- Ranked the No. 213 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
- Ranked the No. 145 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
- Offseason training included stops at the UCLA, Redlands and San Diego State Camps
- Invited to and participated in the National Prep Collegiate Showcase in April, 2022
- Ranked the No. 147 overall prospect and No. 2 tight end in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- Registered 12 pass receptions for 81 yards (6.8 average) and one touchdown in Fall 2021
Cameron Brickle II
#90 | Defensive Tackle | Sophomore | 6-3 / 275
- Transfer from Malvern Prep (Malvern, Pennsylvania)
- Ranked a 5-star prospect by Rivals.com
- Has received 12 Division 1 offers: Boston College, Connecticut, Maryland, Penn State, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Syracuse, Temple, Tennessee, USC, West Virginia and Wisconsin
- 2022 season stats: 29 total tackles, 3 tackles for a loss and 3 passes defended
Bobby Ortiz
#92 | Defensive End | Senior | 6-9 / 250
- Transfer from St. Bonaventure (Ventura)
- Saw limited action with the Seraphs on the varsity club during the 2021 and 2022 seasons
THIS WEEK’S OPPONENT: WEST - SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
SMCHS Season Game No. 1 / Nonleague Game No. 1
Game Logistics: Friday, August 18, 2023 @ Saddleback College (Mission Viejo), 7:00 p.m.
School Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Nickname: Panthers
Head Coach: Olosaa Solovi
2022 Record: 9-3 Overall / 6-0 6A Region 2 (1st) / 1-1 Postseason
2023 Record: 0-0
All-Time Series: First meeting
School History
West High School is the oldest public high school in the state of Utah. It was founded in 1890, and it is part of the Salt Lake City School District. Its original name was Salt Lake High. The school colors are red and black and the school mascot was a black panther, but has recently been changed to The Mighty Panthers. It has a current enrollment of 2,840. The school plays in the Region 2 athletic conference.
Players to Watch
- Isaiah Su’esu’e - Quarterback - Senior
- Efotikoula Vaenuku - Running Back - Senior
- Taimane Brown - Linebacker - Senior
2022 Season
- Outscored opposition 410-140 in 12 games
- Outscored opposition 410-98 in 11 games (excluding Mater Dei, 42-0)
- Outscored opposition 390-43 in 9 wins
- Scored 35-poimts-or-more in 9 games
- Shutout the opposition 5 games
- 15-game league winning streak
- 6A Region 2 (League): 6-0 (Champions) / Postseason: 2-1
- State Division Rank: 8 / State Rank: 10
NEXT WEEK’S OPPONENT: CENTENNIAL (CORONA)
SMCHS Season Game No. 2 / Nonleague Game No. 2
Game Logistics: Friday, August 25, 2023 @ Saddleback College (Mission Viejo), 7:00 p.m.
School Location: Corona, California
Nickname: Huskies
Head Coach: Matt Logan -- 27th Season / 1997-Current -- Record: 275-57-0 (.828)
2022 Record: 9-2 Overall | 5-0 Big VIII League (1st) | 0-1 CIF-SS Division 1 Playoffs
2023 Record: 0-0
This Week’s Game: vs. Mater Dei (Santa Ana)
All-Time Series: SMCHS leads 1-0
Last Game / SMCHS Win: 42-7 on Friday, November 10, 1989 @ Saddleback College
Players to Watch:
- Husan Longstreet - Quartreback - Junior (Transfer from Inglewood)
- Cornell Hatcher, Jr.- Running Back - Senior
- Cory Butler, Jr. - Wide Receiver - Junior
- Bryce Grainger - Linebacker - Senior
- Syncere Brackett - Linebacker - Senior
- Kameron Brown - Defensive End - Senior
- LaRue Zamorano - Cornerback - Junior
Compiled by Chuck Nan
Statistics by Shane Mielke
