PIMA, Ariz. — The Pima Roughriders (10-1) and Bisbee Pumas (10-1) are set to collide in a crucial 2A playoff quarterfinal game on Friday night at Pima High School. Both teams boast impressive records and are eager to keep their championship hopes alive. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
This game carries extra weight for the Pima community, as it is expected to be the final contest played on historic Edd Hubbard Field. Named after legendary head coach Edd Hubbard, who led the Roughriders from 1961 to 1972 with an astounding 76-13 record, the field has been a symbol of Pima’s football excellence and tradition. Under Hubbard’s leadership, the Roughriders never lost more than two games in a season, cementing his legacy as one of the school’s all-time greats. With a new facility set to open next year, Pima is determined to close this chapter with a victory befitting the field’s storied history.
Tale of the Tape: Bisbee’s Firepower
The Bisbee Pumas enter the contest on the heels of a 33-20 playoff win over Camp Verde. Senior quarterback Sebastian Lopez led the offensive charge with 157 passing yards and one touchdown, while also adding 111 rushing yards and two scores. Lopez’s dual-threat abilities make him the focal point of Bisbee’s offense, which has proven capable of generating big plays. Junior receiver Hunter Wright, who tallied 144 receiving yards and a touchdown against Camp Verde, provides a deep threat that complements the Pumas’ attack. On the ground, senior Bryceton Meyer rushed for 137 yards and a touchdown, contributing to Bisbee’s impressive 268 rushing yards.
Defensively, Bisbee has shown grit and resilience, amassing 96 tackles and four sacks in their victory over Camp Verde. Senior Spencer Anthony’s 13 tackles and junior Fabian Hernandez’s 1.5 sacks exemplify the Pumas’ ability to apply pressure and stifle opponents.
Pima’s Balanced Attack
Pima’s high-powered offense shone in their 44-27 playoff win over St. Johns. Senior running back J. Martinez was the star of the show, rushing for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Martinez’s consistent production on the ground has been pivotal for Pima, as he averages nearly 149 yards per game. Sophomore quarterback Cedrick Grimes displayed accuracy and poise, completing 16 of 23 passes for 222 yards and a touchdown. Grimes’ connection with junior Wade Peterson, who recorded 109 receiving yards and a touchdown, highlights the Roughriders’ versatility.
On defense, Pima was anchored by sophomore Joe Palmer’s 14 total tackles, while senior Brock Haws added eight tackles and a sack. The Roughriders’ secondary intercepted four passes, showing their playmaking ability and knack for creating turnovers.
Historical Context and Rivalry Record
Since 2009, Pima holds a 5-3 record against Bisbee. The Roughriders have won the last two meetings, including a dominant 42-13 victory in 2021 and a 41-0 shutout in 2020. Pima’s most recent defeat to Bisbee came in 2019, when they fell 18-12.
Key Matchups to Watch
Offensive Versatility vs. Defensive Playmaking: Bisbee’s dynamic duo of Lopez and Meyer will test Pima’s disciplined defense, which has proven adept at creating turnovers. Limiting explosive plays will be critical for Pima’s success.
Ground Game Dominance: Pima’s Martinez will look to continue his stellar rushing performance, while Bisbee’s front seven, led by Anthony and Hernandez, aims to slow him down and disrupt the Roughriders’ rhythm.
Turnover Battle: Both teams have shown a knack for creating and capitalizing on turnovers. Protecting the football and making timely defensive plays could be the difference in this tightly contested matchup.
