The Arizona 3A high school football playoffs are set to begin on Friday, November 8, at 7 PM. The 16 teams competing this year bring balanced offenses, tough defenses, and key playmakers ready to take their teams to the next level. Here’s a breakdown of each first-round game, including key players, locations, and what to expect as these teams battle for a spot in the quarterfinals.
#16 Page at #1 Benjamin Franklin
- Location: Benjamin Franklin High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Top-seeded Benjamin Franklin has dominated this season, finishing 9-1 with a powerful rushing attack that averages over 180 yards per game. Running back Ridge Allen leads this potent ground game, the foundation of Benjamin Franklin’s success. Page, the 16th seed, counters with a strong passing game led by quarterback Joseph Benally. For Page to stay competitive, they’ll need to capitalize on big passing plays and stretch Benjamin Franklin’s defense.
#9 Payson at #8 ALA – Ironwood
- Location: American Leadership Academy – Ironwood
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
This close-seeded matchup between 8th-seeded ALA – Ironwood and 9th-seeded Payson promises to be a tightly contested game. ALA – Ironwood’s offense revolves around running back Ayden Williams, who averages an impressive 226.6 rushing yards per game, giving the Warriors a powerful ground game. Payson brings a balanced offensive approach, with quarterback Nolan Keeney leading their passing attack. The team that controls possession and establishes an early rhythm could have the edge in this battle.
#12 Paradise Honors at #5 Mohave
- Location: Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Mohave’s defense, which has allowed only 119 points all season, will be a major factor in this matchup against 12th-seeded Paradise Honors. Mohave’s offense is led by running back turned quarterback, Isac Urias, who can break open games with his powerful runs. Paradise Honors will look to quarterback Nolan Rau to spread Mohave’s defense and create scoring opportunities through the air. Mohave’s ability to contain Paradise Honors’ passing game could make a difference in this game.
#13 Blue Ridge at #4 Pusch Ridge Christian Academy
- Location: Pusch Ridge Christian Academy
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Pusch Ridge’s defensive unit has been one of the best in 3A, allowing only 6.2 points per game, and their offense has proven effective with quarterback Jacob Newborn at the helm. Blue Ridge, the 13th seed, brings a strong ground game with running back Karlo Harris, and they’ll look to control the clock and limit Pusch Ridge’s possessions. Breaking through Pusch Ridge’s stout defense will be a tall order for Blue Ridge, but a disciplined running attack could help keep it competitive.
#14 Gilbert Christian at #3 Thatcher
- Location: Eastern Arizona College
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Thatcher’s rushing attack, averaging over 200 yards per game, has powered them to a 9-1 season and a 3rd seed in the playoffs. Running back Kody Bingham is key to Thatcher’s ground game, which has helped control the tempo in their favor. Gilbert Christian, led by quarterback Tyler Burr, brings a strong passing game and will look to stretch Thatcher’s defense to open up scoring opportunities. For Gilbert Christian, a fast start and effective passing game could be the keys to keeping pace with Thatcher’s offense.
#11 Wickenburg at #6 Florence
- Location: Florence High School
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Florence has earned the 6th seed with a balanced attack and a defense that allows only 13.4 points per game. Running back Malik Smith leads Florence’s ground game, which has proven effective throughout the season. Wickenburg, seeded 11th, relies on running back Nick Formica, who averages 166.1 rushing yards per game. This matchup is likely to be a ground battle, with both teams looking to control possession and limit the other’s scoring chances.
#10 Round Valley at #7 River Valley
- Location: Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
River Valley has been one of the highest-scoring teams in 3A, with a potent ground game led by Jayden Plotkin, who averages 178.1 rushing yards per game. Round Valley counters with a strong defensive unit and an offense led by quarterback Connor Lueker, who can make plays with his arm and legs. River Valley’s ability to maintain its rushing dominance could make the difference in this game, while Round Valley’s defense will need to step up to contain River Valley’s high-powered run game.
#15 Dysart at #2 ALA – West Foothills
- Location: American Leadership Academy – West Foothills
- Game Day & Time: Friday, November 8, 7 PM
Undefeated ALA – West Foothills, the 2nd seed, has allowed only 26 points all season, making them a formidable opponent. Quarterback Hudson Mitton leads their balanced offense, which has performed consistently all season. Dysart, the 15th seed, will need a standout performance from quarterback Isaiah Roman to create scoring opportunities and challenge ALA – West Foothills’ defense. Dysart will have to bring a near-perfect game on both sides of the ball to contend with this strong ALA – West Foothills team.
