Date: October 11th, 7pm
Venue: Pima High School
Radio: KATO 1230AM or streaming at GilaValleyCentral.net
Pima Roughriders Overview (5-1, 4-0 in section play)
Pima enters this matchup on a roll, boasting a 5-1 overall record and a perfect 4-0 mark in section play. They have been dominant in both phases of the game, outscoring opponents 187-49 so far this season. Pima’s offense revolves around their physical ground game, averaging 231.8 rushing yards per game. Senior running back Jeremiah Martinez has been a standout, averaging an impressive 162.2 yards per game and 11 points per contest, making him the key player in Pima’s offensive attack.
On defense, Pima has been equally impressive, allowing just 49 points all season. With a strong front seven that averages 2 sacks per game, led by players like Brock Haws and Joe Palmer, the Roughriders will look to disrupt SCA’s offensive rhythm.
Scottsdale Christian Academy Eagles Overview (3-3, 3-0 in section play)
SCA comes into this matchup with a 3-3 overall record but a perfect 3-0 record in section play. They are the reigning 2A State Champions, having defeated Pima in last year’s title game. SCA’s offense has been productive, averaging 319 total yards per game, with 175.7 coming on the ground and 143.3 through the air.
Junior quarterback Sean Helgeson has been efficient, averaging 141.3 passing yards per game, and his favorite target, senior Ethan Davidson, has been a playmaker, averaging 28 yards per catch and leading the team in touchdowns last week. On the ground, senior running back Caleb Randall is coming off a huge game with 202 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, making him a player Pima must account for.
Defensively, SCA is led by senior linebacker Everett Salazar, who averages 10.5 tackles per game. The Eagles will look to build on their defensive performance last week, where they recorded two interceptions and two sacks.
Team Comparisons:
| Stat | Pima | Scottsdale Christian Academy |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 231.8 | 175.7 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 73.7 | 143.3 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 305.5 | 319.0 |
| Points Per Game | 30.3 | 29.3 |
| Tackles Per Game | 43.5 | 80.7 |
| Sacks Per Game | 2.0 | 1.0 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 8.2 | 21.8 |
Previewing Both Sides of the Ball:
Pima Offense vs. SCA Defense: Pima’s ground game, led by Jeremiah Martinez, will be the focal point of their offensive attack. Martinez averages over 160 yards per game, and his ability to churn out yardage will be critical for Pima to control the pace of the game. The Roughriders’ offensive line has been dominant in creating space for their running backs, which could spell trouble for SCA, who will need their front seven, led by Salazar and Randall, to plug up running lanes and prevent Martinez from gaining momentum.
SCA’s defense has been opportunistic, forcing turnovers last week against Veritas Prep. Their ability to force fumbles or pick off passes could shift the game’s momentum in their favor. But, if Pima establishes the run early, it could be difficult for SCA to slow them down.
SCA Offense vs. Pima Defense: SCA’s offense is more balanced, with Helgeson leading a passing attack that can stretch the field. Ethan Davidson, who had two touchdown catches last week, provides a deep threat that could challenge Pima’s secondary. If Helgeson has time in the pocket, he has the ability to pick apart defenses with quick, accurate throws.
However, SCA’s real strength is their rushing attack, led by Caleb Randall, who is coming off a massive 202-yard game. If Randall can establish the run, it will open up play-action opportunities for Helgeson. Pima’s defense, which held ALA – Anthem to negative rushing yards last week, will need another stout performance from its front seven, particularly Joe Palmer and Brock Haws, to contain Randall and disrupt Helgeson’s timing in the passing game.
Keys to the Game:
Pima will win if:
- Control the Trenches: If Pima’s offensive line can dominate, opening up running lanes for Martinez and Palmer, they will control the tempo and wear down SCA’s defense.
- Defensive Pressure: If Pima’s front seven can get after Helgeson and limit Randall’s effectiveness on the ground, SCA’s offense could struggle to find consistency.
- Limit Turnovers: Pima has been efficient on offense, but protecting the ball will be critical. Any mistakes could swing momentum in SCA’s favor.
SCA will win if:
- Balanced Attack: SCA will need to mix up the run and pass to keep Pima’s defense off balance. If Helgeson can connect with Davidson and Randall can have another big rushing performance, SCA’s offense will be tough to stop.
- Big Defensive Plays: SCA’s defense needs to force turnovers and prevent Pima’s ground game from controlling the clock. Salazar, Randall, and the rest of the front seven must step up in a big way.
- Exploit the Passing Game: Pima’s defense is stout against the run, but if Helgeson can find success in the air, it could open up the field for SCA’s offense.
