The Morenci Wildcats are returning to 2A after a hard-nosed stint in 3A, but their mindset hasn’t budged. Head coach Frankie Gonzalez, entering his second year, says it plainly:
“We’ve got a veteran team coming back. Our goal is to play football in November.”
Gonzalez will again pull double duty as defensive coordinator, leading a seasoned staff that includes offensive coordinator Benji Morales, special teams coach Brenden Enriquez, and key assistants Chance Brewer (WRs/DBs), Chuck Lopez (QBs/DBs), Jason Mcuen (RBs/LBs), Josh Sandoval (DL), and Frank Gonzalez Sr. (OL/LBs). This crew has laid the foundation for a no-nonsense, physical identity — and 2025 should showcase just that.
Offensively, it all starts with the run game. Julien Aragon, a 2nd-team all-region pick, returns after rushing for 756 yards on 126 carries. Derick Lytle, a bruising fullback and linebacker, is back from injury and looks to return to all-region form. Morenci’s offensive line — anchored by Isaiah Cook and Dean Chee — is as seasoned and physical as any unit in 2A, and they’ll be asked to lead the charge again this fall.
At quarterback, Jaymz Guzzo brings experience and a command of the huddle, having taken snaps last season and emerged as a vocal leader. Sophomore transfer Deegan Miller adds athleticism and depth to the QB room, and Jeremya Cruz, a shifty RB/DB, is another young weapon expected to take on a bigger role. The pieces are in place — especially if younger linemen like Matthew Herandez and James Davis continue their offseason momentum.
Defensively, Morenci boasts toughness at every level. Lytle, Torres (39 tackles, 1 sack), Guzzo (35 tackles, 2 INTs), Chee (26 tackles), and Cook (42 tackles) are all proven contributors. This group will need to lead the charge as the Wildcats work to replace some key seniors and build depth behind them.
The 2025 schedule brings no shortage of early tests, including a season opener at home against longtime rival Safford, followed by showdowns with Willcox, Benson, St. Johns, and a road trip to face defending 2A finalist Pima in Week 8. Gonzalez didn’t hesitate when asked what games were circled:
“Safford. Willcox. Benson. Pima. St. Johns.”
It’s a slate that will test Morenci’s mettle week after week.
There’s no gimmick here. No flash. Just a program rooted in effort, toughness, and pride. And this fall, that all centers on one mission:
Defend the Hill.
