The first half of CIF Pac-5 Playoff football at Mission Viejo High was exactly what Wilson wanted. They got a yeoman’s effort from the defense and a big play turned into a 14-7 lead. However, in the second half those insurmountable odds caught up to the Bruins as the Diablos got hot and scored on their first four offensive possessions on the way to a 41-14 victory.
“This is the playoffs,” said Wilson coach Mario Morales. “I told the team anything could happen.” The team obviously believed because “anything” almost did happen.
The #2 overall seed in the Pac-5 bracket came out sluggish and was surprised by the Wilson defensive speed and tenacity. The Diablos converted an early turnover into seven points, but the Bruins answered with one of the best drives of the season.
With Vergee Whitaker in the backfield for a more physical look, the Wilson put together an 18 play, 77 yard touchdown drive. Taking up almost 10 minutes, the drive included a six-yard run on a fake punt and a naked bootleg for the score—both from quarterback Brett Harper.
When the defense held again and Mission Viejo punted, Ezell Ruffin took the second play of the possession 74 yards for the go-ahead score. Even though the Diablos got a quick score before halftime, it was still tied at 14, and Bruins knew they were in it.
“We played real well in the first half and the kids hung in and showed a lot of heart,” said Morales.
In the home team’s locker room the mood was very different, and running back Exavier Edwards took the first half personally. The senior led the charge and the high-powered Diablo offense kicked it into gear and scored on the first four possessions of the second half. Edwards finished with 123 yards and three touchdowns.
The Mission Viejo defense also made the necessary adjustments to the Wilson attack and after allowing 179 yards in the first half, they limited the Bruins to just 42 in the second half. Linebacker Nick Dzubnar led the defense with two sacks and four tackles for loss.
Mission Viejo will play Norte Dame in the quarterfinals.