Get ready for an electrifying Friday night under the lights as the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series kicks off with an intense matchup between Mission Viejo and Long Beach Poly on September 1, 2023 at the renowned David Burcham Field.

With just eight meetings in the all-time series, Mission Viejo holds the edge with a 6-2 record against the storied Long Beach Poly. But the Jackrabbits are determined to rewrite the narrative and add another thrilling chapter to their rich football legacy.

The crowd size is expected to reach a roaring 7,000, as both teams’ passionate supporters converge to witness this highly anticipated rivalry clash. The stands will be alive with school spirit, adding an electric atmosphere to the game.

Last time around, Long Beach Poly’s running back, Devin Samples, etched his name into the history books with an 8-yard touchdown run in the final 22 seconds, securing a dramatic 35-30 upset win over Mission Viejo at their own turf. The Diablos are itching for redemption and will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, highlighted the significance of this legendary rivalry, saying, “Mission Viejo vs. Long Beach Poly is a game that embodies the essence of high school football rivalries. The passion, the tradition, and the talent on display make it one of the most anticipated clashes in our 20-year history.”

Both schools boast impressive football pedigrees. Poly’s deep history dates back to 1908, amassing an astonishing 20 Southern Section titles and claiming the first state title in 1919. On the other hand, Mission Viejo, since its inception in 1966, has secured seven section titles and triumphed in the 2015 state Division 1-AA bowl game. Not to forget their remarkable 41-game winning streak from 2001-03, the second-longest in Orange County history.

As the teams prepare to take the field, the passion and intensity are palpable, and fans are eagerly awaiting another chapter in this historic rivalry. So, mark your calendars and buckle up for a high-octane encounter that will leave you on the edge of your seats.

We Know Friday Nights.

MVP

Kamarie Smith
Long Beach Poly

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Luke Buggs

Long Beach Poly

Luke is a 3 sport athlete (Football, Basketball and Track) that currently holds a 4.3 GPA, is a straight A student and is in the CIC program at Long Beach Poly. CIC is an honors college-prep curricilum in which Luke takes various Accelerated and AP Courses. Luke is a leader on and off the field and helps tutor some of his teammates on various subjects. When he is not at practice, he coaches the Girls LB Poly Flag Football Team.
Jonavan Asuncion

Mission Viejo

Jonavan Asuncion is a 4.0 student, team captain, All League 2nd Defensive Team, and Community Hero Award nominee. He is not focused on academics and football, he has also been surrounded by a life of service which contributes to his caring nature and empathy towards people. Jonavan has attended and volunteered at numerous community functions such as a 5k charity runs for various non-profit organizations, volunteering in the Heroes supporting Heroes event which all proceeds help Special Olympics and their athletes, and volunteering for the City of Laguna Niguel in various community events.

GAME SUMMARY

Mission Viejo fired up this Rivalry in Cali with a TD putting the first points on the board 6-0. Poly reciprocated with 70yd rushing TD by #5 to take the lead 7-6 in the 1st. Despite on-field injuries, the battle heated up. Colorado State commit Darius Curry for LBP keeps it himself and runs it in for six. Long Beach Poly doubled their score to 14-6 with 8:07 left till halftime. LBP nailed a FG to take it to halftime up 17-6. Mission fired back with a TD and a 2pt conversion to close the gap at 17-14. Keeping the momentum, MV added another to the board with a pick 6 by #7 in the 3rd quarter 21-17. #5 from the Jackrabbits recaptured the lead with a 60 yd TD to narrow it up 28-25. With 42 seconds left in the game and on the 12 yd line, LBP secured the W in a close Rivalry game with a final score of 32-28.