The Arizona 2A high school football playoffs kick off Friday night, November 8, at 7 PM, as 16 teams enter the race for a state title. With strong records, standout players, and high stakes, these teams are ready to bring their best in the first round. Here’s a look at each matchup, including locations, key players, and what to expect from these exciting contests.
#16 Holbrook at #1 San Tan Charter
- Location: San Tan Charter High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Undefeated San Tan Charter has had a stellar season, averaging 40.8 points per game while allowing only 10.5. Led by quarterback Uriah Neloms, this team boasts a balanced offensive and defensive approach that will challenge any opponent. Holbrook brings a strong ground game powered by running back Matthias Montijo. For Holbrook to keep up, they’ll need to control possession and keep San Tan Charter’s high-powered offense off the field.
#9 Willcox at #8 Scottsdale Preparatory Academy
- Location: Scottsdale Prep
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Scottsdale Prep has posted a 9-1 season with a well-balanced team that excels on both sides of the ball. Willcox will bring a powerful rushing attack, led by running back Landon Ward, who can control the clock and keep Scottsdale Prep’s offense, led by Judah Mizysak on the sidelines. Both teams are close in seeding, promising a competitive game as they aim for a spot in the quarterfinals.
#12 Scottsdale Christian Academy at #5 Santa Cruz Valley
- Location: Santa Cruz Valley Union High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Santa Cruz Valley boasts a strong defense and an offense that averages 42.4 points per game. Running back Aidan Ysaguirre and dual-threat quarterback Nathan Harris lead their run-heavy offense. Scottsdale Christian will look to quarterback Sean Helgeson to spread out Santa Cruz Valley’s defense and find scoring opportunities in order to keep up with Santa Cruz Valley’s high-scoring attack.
#13 Veritas Prep at #4 Phoenix Christian
- Location: Phoenix Christian Jr./Sr. High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Phoenix Christian has posted a near-perfect 9-1 record, relying on both a strong ground game and a defense that allows just 10.7 points per game. Running back Z’Yeon Rondan will lead Phoenix Christian’s offensive attack. Veritas Prep, with quarterback Rocco Guido, will need to create big plays through the air to challenge Phoenix Christian’s tough defense and keep themselves in the game.
#14 St. Johns at #3 Pima
- Location: Pima High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Pima’s standout 9-1 season has been anchored by a strong defense and a clock-controlling offense led by running back Jeremiah Martinez. St. Johns previously fell to Pima 7-2 in a defensive battle earlier in the season, and they’ll need more offensive production this time around to keep it competitive. Running back Mark Cox will be essential for St. Johns as they look to avenge their earlier loss.
#11 Camp Verde at #6 Bisbee
- Location: Warren Ballpark, Bisbee
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Bisbee’s balanced offense has averaged 34.7 points per game, led by dual-threat quarterback Sebastian Lopez. They face Camp Verde, known for their scoring ability, led by Thaine D Cook. Bisbee aim to maintain control at home. Bisbee’s defense, which has limited opponents to 17.5 points per game, will need to remain focused against Camp Verde’s explosive offense.
#10 Miami at #7 Arizona Lutheran Academy
- Location: Arizona Lutheran Academy
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Arizona Lutheran Academy brings a strong run game to the field, with running back Elijah Harris powering an offense that averages over 300 rushing yards per game. Miami will look to quarterback Abram Castaneda to spread Arizona Lutheran’s defense and find gaps. Containing Harris will be a big challenge for Miami’s defense, as Arizona Lutheran’s ground game has consistently worn down opponents all season.
#15 Parker at #2 Tonopah Valley
- Location: Tonopah Valley High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Tonopah Valley’s undefeated season and balanced offense, led by quarterback Sir-izzik Sanchez Caldwell, make them a formidable opponent. They’ve already defeated Parker earlier in the season, so Parker will need a strong defensive performance to limit Tonopah’s scoring. This will be a challenging game for Parker, but they’ll look to capitalize on any chances to keep the score close.
