The562’s coverage of football in 2024-25 is sponsored by The Terry Donahue Memorial California Showcase.
The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly is sponsored by Bryson Financial.
Long Beach Poly (2-3) gets its biggest test of the season Friday night at SoFi Stadium at 7pm, as the Jackrabbits host undefeated Mission Viejo (6-0).
“They’re a great program, coach Johnson does a really good job over there and we’re excited for a big game,” said Poly coach Stephen Barbee.
The Jackrabbits started the season 0-3 against three highly-ranked opponents in Folsom, Lincoln and Serra. Their progression over those three games was obvious to anyone who watched them–a week after losing by 28 to Lincoln, they lost by just six to Serra. Then Poly got a blowout against Jordan, and showed that they’re still well ahead of Lakewood with a big win last week.
The question for the Jackrabbits as they dip back into their tough nonleague schedule for a final week is: how much better have they gotten? Mission Viejo is a tall test, currently ranked No. 2 in the State on CalPreps (higher than St. John Bosco).
The Jackrabbits’ offense has taken big steps forward with QB Deuce Jefferson, while UCLA commit Madden Iamaleava awaits CIFSS clearance to play. Jefferson did a great job taking advantage of his many weapons against Lakewood, but will be tested against the Diablos Friday.
Poly’s defense, meanwhile, has been strong but also inconsistent–giving up 14 points to Lakewood early before effectively shutting the Lancers down for the rest of the game.
Fans who are attending can get tickets and parking at this link:
The562 will be on site with full coverage of the game.
