Hanford’s big win raises Central Section playoff stakes

Hanford High quarterback Jerren Mao during a game against Sanger on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026.

HANFORD HIGH FOOTBALL

Hanford High is peaking at the right time after two straight losses.

The problem is that the Bullpups’ reward could be a disheartening matchup when the Central Section playoffs begin.

Jerren Mao accounted for four touchdowns, and Hanford’s defense intercepted five passes as The Bee’s 15th-ranked Bullpups handed No. 5 Tulare Western its first loss of the season, earning a 42-25 victory over the Mustangs at Bob Mathias Stadium on Thursday night.

The victory could land Hanford in Division I-AA, potentially setting up a first-round matchup against Central East.

“We’re hitting our stride at the right time,” Hanford coach Cannon Sanchez said.

Sanchez, who has been the Bullpups’ head coach for seven years, recalled his team’s postseason run in 2021, following an 8-1 regular season. Hanford faced Central East in the first round of the 2021-22 playoffs, falling 62-16 in a Division I matchup.

“We have no business up there with 1,480 students,” Sanchez said. “The CIF has the power and does nothing about it. Hoping they do the right thing and at least put us down to D-1A.”

Central Section playoff pairings will be announced next weekend.

Sanchez anticipates Hanford could face Central East again, but he hopes the section will reconsider its divisional structure moving forward.

“Very discouraging,” Sanchez said. “We ultimately need to restructure our base divisions.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the playoffs, the Bullpups have plenty of reasons to feel confident, led by one of the section’s top quarterbacks.

Mao threw for 267 yards and rushed for 51 yards and three touchdowns. Braylen Thomas caught 12 passes for 130 yards.

Adrian Ibarra came up with two interceptions, including a 30-yard return for a touchdown, as Hanford’s defense repeatedly disrupted the Mustangs’ passing game.

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