Cubs men’s football aims to blend experience, versatility in upcoming season

Loyola High School of Los Angeles Cubs men’s football enters the new season with a clear goal under head coach Drew Casani: build a balanced, versatile team that can compete week in and week out against a demanding schedule. With a core of returners who contribute on both sides of the ball and a roster shaped for flexibility, the Cubs are positioned to lean on experience, depth and improved execution as they move into the fall.

Offensively, Loyola has options at the most important position, with quarterbacks Tommy Derbyshire, Gavin Grabe and JC Rising all listed under center. That competition should give the Cubs flexibility in how they attack defenses, whether through a more traditional passing approach or a multi-threat look that stresses the perimeter. Around them, skill players such as wide receiver Brandon Alexander and two-way threats like Zion Phelps and Jayden Rogers at running back and defensive back give the offense speed in space and the ability to create mismatches across the formation.

The Cubs’ identity, however, is likely to be anchored by a physical, assignment-sound defense. In the middle, linebackers Kane Casani and Holden Smyser provide size and tackling presence at the second level, key to slowing opponent run games and setting the tone between the tackles. On the edge, defensive end and tight end Zachary Harrison and hybrid tight end/linebacker Wes McMullin give Loyola length and versatility to set the edge, rush the passer and contribute in coverage when needed. The secondary features multiple experienced contributors, including cornerbacks Malique Pollard and Xavier Wimbley, along with defensive backs Gage Santos, Peter Sciarrino and Dashel Valdes, forming a rotation built to handle spread offenses and deep passing attacks.

That combination of multi-position athletes and returning experience should be one of Loyola’s primary strengths. Many of the Cubs’ key contributors are listed at two positions, allowing the staff to adjust personnel packages based on opponent, down and distance, or game flow. The challenge, as with any roster that leans on two-way players, will be managing fatigue, staying healthy over the course of the season and maintaining consistency in assignments on both sides of the ball. Continued improvement in situational football—third downs, red-zone execution and special teams—figures to be a point of emphasis as Loyola looks to turn close contests into wins.

The schedule, as always, will test the Cubs early and often, with league play and traditional rivalry matchups looming as natural measuring sticks. Key games against familiar foes in one of Southern California’s most competitive high school football landscapes will provide opportunities to gauge the program’s progress under Casani and his staff. Those contests, particularly high-profile league games and marquee nonleague dates, are likely to define the Cubs’ postseason aspirations and reveal how far their depth and versatility can carry them.

As the season approaches, Loyola’s outlook is grounded in steady growth rather than bold predictions. With an experienced core at quarterback, linebacker and in the secondary, and a staff that emphasizes preparation and physical play, the Cubs expect to be competitive every week. If they can maximize their two-way talent, sharpen execution and stay healthy through the grind of the schedule, Loyola has the pieces to make this season a meaningful step forward for the program.