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MISSION VIEJO — There was no shortage of storylines as Santa Margarita and Mission Viejo kicked off their football seasons on Friday.

From the coaching debut of Santa Margarita’s Carson Palmer to the arrival of the Eagles’ new linemen to the heat of a South County rivalry, the game offered the spectators who filled Trabuco Hills High plenty to follow.

The drama built as the defenses dominated, setting the stage for Mission Viejo quarterback Luke Fahey to showcase his skill.

Santa Margarita head coach Carson Palmer looks out to the field as the season-opening game against Mission Viejo begins at Trabuco Hills High School in Mission Viejo on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange Cou

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