Thatcher, Ariz –The Thatcher Eagles (11-2) will clash with the undefeated ALA – West Foothills Guardians (13-0) in a 3A state semifinal matchup on Saturday, November 23, at 7 p.m. at Mesa High School. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two programs, with a spot in the 3A state championship on the line.
Thatcher comes into the game riding high after a decisive 38-9 quarterfinal victory over Florence. Senior running back Kody Bingham led the way with a dominant 220-yard, two-touchdown performance. The Eagles’ offense has relied heavily on its ground game, with Bingham’s explosive ability and quarterback Chad Johnson’s versatility. Johnson contributed 87 passing yards, a touchdown, and 36 rushing yards last week, offering balance to Thatcher’s attack.
Defensively, the Eagles displayed their signature tenacity against Florence, consistently pressuring the quarterback to the tune of 10 sacks and shutting down the run. 3A South Defensive Player of the Year, Tristun Brown and the Thatcher defensive unit will be tasked with containing a balanced ALA – West Foothills offense that has thrived all season.
The Guardians, coming off a 28-6 victory over Round Valley, are led by senior running back JJ Brutus, who tallied 210 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the quarterfinals. Junior quarterback Hudson Mitton contributed a passing and rushing touchdown, while junior Carson Callister was a key all-purpose threat. ALA – West Foothills’ defense has been dominant, recording eight tackles for loss in their last game and forcing turnovers at critical moments.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Ground Game Showdown: Thatcher’s rushing attack, powered by Bingham, faces a formidable challenge against a stout Guardians’ defensive front led by Brutus and Matthew Lee. Controlling the tempo on the ground will be crucial.
- Defensive Intensity: The Eagles’ defensive success hinges on stopping Brutus and limiting Mitton’s dual-threat capabilities. The Guardians, meanwhile, will look to disrupt Johnson’s rhythm and contain Bingham.
- Quarterback Efficiency: Chad Johnson’s ability to manage the game, deliver timely passes, and create plays with his legs could be pivotal. Mitton, for ALA – West Foothills, provides a similar dynamic.
- First-Time Pressure: ALA – West Foothills is seeking its first-ever trip to the championship game. Thatcher, with 12 state title game appearances and nine championships, brings a wealth of experience to the stage.
Thatcher’s championship pedigree speaks for itself. The Eagles’ last 3A state title game appearance came in 2022 when they fell to Eastmark. Before moving up to 3A, Thatcher won three consecutive 2A state championships in 2016, 2017, and 2018. Their extensive postseason history, with 12 appearances and nine titles, makes them a challenge for any opponent in the playoffs.
