The Mission League showdown between Loyola High School and Notre Dame High School was more than just a game. It was a high-stakes battle for the coveted playoff spot, with everything on the line. Fans from both schools filled the stands, anticipating a fierce competition that would determine which team would advance to the postseason. But, in an ironic twist, the outcome would be decided by a coin toss—a moment that would soon secure Loyola’s place in the playoffs and send a wave of excitement through the Cub community.
With an overall record of 4-6 and a Mission League record of 2-3, Varsity football has had a tough season facing strong opposition. Coming off a blowout loss to Sierra Canyon, Loyola was looking for redemption against Notre Dame, who have gone 5-5 overall and 2-3 in league, warranting an exciting matchup under Friday night lights.
This season, the Cubs experienced a complex predicament that ultimately determined their place in the playoffs. In the Mission League, number one seed Sierra Canyon advanced to the Division One playoffs due to their stellar regular season performance. Second ranked team Serra advanced to the D2 playoffs. However, for the D3 playoff spot, there was a three way tie between Notre Dame, Loyola and Chaminade. To determine who would advance, a coin toss would be the deciding factor.
The game began with Notre Dame scoring first, taking a 7-0 lead. Loyola scored a touchdown that tied the game 7-7. Notre Dame responded quickly, scoring another touchdown to make it 14-7 by the end of the first quarter. They extended their lead to 21-7 early in the second quarter, but Loyola answered with a touchdown to close the gap to 21-14. By halftime, Notre Dame was ahead 28-14. In the third quarter, Loyola scored to narrow the deficit to 28-21, and they tied the game 28-28 shortly after. Notre Dame regained the lead in the fourth quarter, 35-28, but Loyola answered with another touchdown. Opting for a two-point conversion to clinch the win, the Cubs fell short, ending the game at 35-34 in a disappointing finish.
The star of the game was starting running back Sean Morris ’26, who secured four of the Cubs’ five touchdowns.
When asked about the decision to go for the two-point conversion at the end of the game, Morris said, “I just run the play. we’re in the playoffs aren’t we?”
Despite falling just short on the field, Loyola’s fortunes shifted in the coin toss that followed, securing the Cubs a place in the playoffs and keeping their season alive. This outcome was more than a stroke of luck; it symbolized the resilience and tenacity that has defined Loyola’s season. Now, with a playoff berth in hand, the Cubs are ready to take on new challenges, bringing the full force of their determination and skill to the postseason.
The next game is tonight in Orange County, against Tustin High School at 7 p.m. This will be the first round of the Division three CIF playoffs, and the Cubs are going in as the underdogs. Seeded in the 13th spot, while Tustin is in the 4th, Loyola will be facing a significant challenge. This potential win could be a great start to a possible playoff run.