November 21, 2024

OC Sports Zone: Community First

Player to watch: Irvine’s Bryce Tanikawa making big plays and leading Vaqueros in CIF playoffs

Bryce Tanikawa has contributed on offense, defense and special teams for Irvine. (Photo courtesy Irvine football)

Irvine High receiver Bryce Tanikawa, the latest OC Sports Zone player to watch, has been making some big plays on both sides of the ball for the Vaquero football team, which is moving on to the quarterfinals of the CIF Division 11 playoffs Friday night at Hemet.

“Bryce does a little bit of everything for us and his contributions are immeasurable,” said Irvine Coach Erik Terry. “We know that he is capable of making a big play at any time.”

On offense, Tanikawa has 38 receptions for 484 yards and on defense, he has 40 tackles and has broken up five passes  and had one interception.

Tanikawa has also made big contributions on the special teams unit.

He has nine kick-off returns for 208 yards and one touchdown and has returned 25 punts for 811 yards. He has scored five touchdowns, made four field goals and converted 27 extra points.

Tanikawa appears to have a bright future ahead of him.

“Bryce is a very good student and he has a lot of Division 3 interest right now,” Terry said. ” He is also still in contact with a few Ivy League schools.”

IRVINE FOOTBALL TEAM MADE THE MOST OF A SECOND CHANCE

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com