The local football schedule kicks off on Thursday, September 18, with a pair of intriguing matchups. Safford (1-3) is coming off a 27–7 win over Winslow and now travels to Coolidge (2-2) in a series that dates back to 1963. The Bulldogs lead the all-time matchup 18–13 and have taken five of the last six meetings, though the teams haven’t faced off since 2020.
Safford head coach Ishmael MacNeil said he liked the way his team performed in last week’s win, especially in the less-flashy phases of the game. “We played particularly well on special teams and defense. Our defense and special teams scored, which was great to see. Our offense had some bright points but still a lot to clean up,” MacNeil said. Looking ahead, he knows the challenge is stiff. “This week we match up with Coolidge, who have great athletes all over the field. As long as we are able to limit their big plays and we do our jobs on offense, we have a chance to win.” Fans can catch this game live on KATO 1230 AM or stream it worldwide at gilavalleycentral.net/kato-sports-broadcasts.
Also on Thursday, Fort Thomas (1-3) comes off a 48–44 shootout loss to Joseph City as they head to Superior (3-1). This rivalry began in 2009, and Superior has owned it in recent years, winning the last seven straight to take an 8–3 series lead. Fort’s last victory came back in 2013.
Fort Thomas head coach Even Stringfellow said his team showed grit in the narrow loss. “My boys played a great football game last week against Joe City, we just came up short at the end. But they fought and played hard,” Stringfellow said. He added that adjustments have been made ahead of this week’s matchup. “We’ve got a new gameplan for Superior and I hope we are ready to play.”
On Friday, September 19, San Carlos (2-1) visits Desert Christian (3-1) in the first-ever meeting between the two schools. It’s a historic moment for Desert Christian, which is playing its first season of 11-man football.
Another classic series resumes as Morenci (2-2) heads to Globe (3-1). The Wildcats are coming off a 26–0 win over Bisbee and hold a narrow 18–16–1 edge in the series. Globe hasn’t won in the rivalry since 1972, with Morenci capturing the last five meetings since the series resumed in 2010.
Morenci head coach Frankie Gonzalez said his team took a step forward last week. “It was a good game for the Wildcats. We cleaned up a ton of penalties and mistakes from prior weeks. I feel like we are heading in the right direction,” Gonzalez said. Still, he knows the Wildcats have their hands full. “We are headed to play a good Globe team and it will be a test.”
Tombstone (0-3) will look to turn history on its head when it takes on Willcox (3-1). The Cowboys have dominated the rivalry since it began in 1943, holding a commanding 55–8 advantage. Tombstone’s last win came in 2016.
Meanwhile, St. Johns (3-1) visits Pima (1-3) in a newer but balanced series that began in 2016. The rivalry is tied at three wins apiece, though Pima has the upper hand lately, winning the last three. Pima is coming off a tough 7–0 loss to Willcox. This matchup will also be broadcast live on KATO 1230 AM and streamed at gilavalleycentral.net/kato-sports-broadcasts.
Pima head coach Josh Wilkins said his squad is grinding through adversity. “We are taking our lunch right now working through these injuries. Our defense is really playing well and we are getting closer to getting some of our key players back,” Wilkins said.
The Thatcher Eagles have the week off after edging Florence 21–18 last Friday. Head coach Dan Jones said that while the win was good, he wants sharper execution. “I didn’t love our execution. We are working on cleaning that up. I’m happy to come home with a win, but with the week off I’m hoping to heal and get some kids back in spots that they are needed,” Jones said. With a bye week to rest and regroup, the Eagles are setting their sights on a big challenge ahead. “We need to get kids rested and ready to take on the defending 3A champs, Pusch Ridge, next week,” Jones added.
Finally, Duncan (1-3) hosts Cibecue (0-0) in a matchup that started in 2007. Duncan has won all eight meetings to date. This game also marks Cibecue’s only scheduled contest of the 2025 season.
It’s a full slate of action this week, with plenty of history, streaks, and storylines on the line for fans across the region.
