Yuma Catholic at Thatcher
WHEN: 7 p.m., Friday, September 20
WHERE: Eastern Arizona College
RADIO: KATO 1230AM or stream at Gilavalleycentral.net
WHAT TO WATCH: The Thatcher Eagles (4-0) are set to host the Yuma Catholic Shamrocks (3-0) in a highly anticipated non-conference matchup between two undefeated teams. However, history hasn’t been kind to Thatcher in this rivalry. Yuma Catholic has dominated in recent years, winning the last four meetings, including a 42-20 victory just last season. Thatcher’s last win against the Shamrocks dates back to 2013 when they edged out a 20-14 victory.
Yuma Catholic brings a high-powered offense into this game, averaging 33.7 points per game. Quarterback Nash Ott is the engine of this offense, averaging 164.7 passing yards per game, complemented by a capable rushing attack. Their defense, led by Rocky Stallworth with an average of 13.7 tackles per game, has been stout, allowing only 20 points across their three games. The Shamrocks have been particularly effective in the first half, building early leads and putting pressure on their opponents to play catch-up.
Thatcher, however, has been a dominant force in their own right this season. The Eagles have a balanced approach, with a potent rushing game led by Kody Bingham, who averages just under 74 yards per game. Their offense averages 28.3 points per game, and they’ve shown resilience, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they average 10 points, indicating their ability to close out games. On the defensive side, Ryan Jones is a standout with 12.5 tackles per game. Thatcher’s defense will need to be at its best to contain Yuma Catholic’s explosive offense.
Key Matchup: The key to this game will be how well Thatcher’s defense can handle Yuma Catholic’s dynamic passing game. With Nash Ott leading the charge for the Shamrocks, Thatcher’s secondary will need to be alert and disciplined. On the other side, Thatcher will aim to control the game tempo with their ground attack, keeping Yuma Catholic’s offense off the field and wearing down their defense. If Thatcher can establish their running game early, they have a chance to keep the game within reach.
Historical Context: Despite Thatcher’s strong start to this season, they have historically struggled against Yuma Catholic, losing six of their last seven matchups. Yuma Catholic’s recent dominance, including a 42-20 win last year, gives them the edge. This game represents an opportunity for Thatcher to rewrite the narrative and prove they can compete with one of the top teams in 4A.
Prediction: Given the history and current form, Yuma Catholic enters this game as the favorite. Their high-scoring offense and solid defense present a tough challenge for the Eagles. However, if Thatcher can control the pace with their rushing attack and keep the game close into the fourth quarter, they could have a chance to upset the Shamrocks at home.
Safford at Sabino
WHEN: 7 p.m., Friday, September 20
WHERE: Sabino High School
WHAT TO WATCH: The Safford Bulldogs (2-2) travel to face the Sabino Sabercats (2-2) in what promises to be a tightly contested matchup between two evenly matched teams. Both teams are looking to build some momentum as they head into the middle of the season, and this game could be crucial in setting the tone for their remaining schedules.
Safford’s season has been a rollercoaster so far. They secured two victories, including a unique situation against Rincon, where the game ended at halftime because Rincon conceded due to a lack of players to continue. Despite the unconventional win, the Bulldogs showed promise in other games, with a balanced offense averaging 227.8 total yards per game. Quarterback Jevyn Elliott has been a key player, averaging 159 passing yards per game, while their defense is led by Xavier Owens, who averages 8 tackles and 2.4 sacks per game.
Sabino comes into this game with a similar record and a need to establish more consistency. Their offense is centered around the ground game, with Zachari Haley leading the charge at 106 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Bodhi Sanford adds balance to the attack with 73 passing yards per game. The Sabercats have shown they can compete, as demonstrated in their games this season, but have struggled to keep opponents at bay, giving up points that have cost them in critical moments.
Key Matchup: A key aspect of this matchup will be how Safford’s defense handles Sabino’s run-heavy offense. If the Bulldogs can contain Haley and force Sabino into passing situations, they could gain the upper hand. On the flip side, Sabino’s defense will need to focus on limiting the impact of Jevyn Elliott’s passing game, as the Bulldogs have shown they can move the ball effectively through the air.
Historical Context: Safford has had a tough history against Sabino, having lost the last four matchups. Last year’s encounter ended in a decisive 50-21 defeat for the Bulldogs, where Sabino’s offense proved too much to handle. This game provides an opportunity for Safford to turn the tide and prove they can compete with the Sabercats, particularly if they can capitalize on their offensive strengths and make key stops on defense.
What’s at Stake: Both teams have a lot riding on this game. Safford is aiming to solidify their season and gain a confidence boost by overcoming a team that has given them trouble in the past. Sabino, meanwhile, looks to assert their dominance in the matchup and build on their 2-2 record. A win here could be a pivotal moment for either team’s season.
Prediction: Given both teams’ performances this season, this game is poised to be closely contested. Safford’s balanced attack gives them an edge, especially if they can exploit Sabino’s defensive vulnerabilities. However, Sabino’s home-field advantage and their effective running game make them a tough opponent. Expect a battle where the outcome could come down to which team can execute their game plan more effectively and make the necessary adjustments during the game.
St. Johns at Pima
WHEN: 7 p.m., Friday, September 20
WHERE: Pima High School
WHAT TO WATCH: The Pima Roughriders (2-1) are hosting the St. Johns Redskins (1-2) in what promises to be a crucial conference matchup. Pima has been on a roll recently, winning their last meeting against St. Johns with an impressive 41-0 shutout. The Roughriders have shown a strong offense led by Jeremiah Martinez, who’s averaging 167.7 rushing yards per game. They will aim to continue this dominance at home, where they’ve been solid this season.
St. Johns, however, is no stranger to this rivalry. Historically, they have held their own against Pima, with some close contests in previous years. This season, they’ve had mixed results but are looking to rebound and disrupt Pima’s momentum. Watch for St. Johns’ quarterback Oscar Jaramillo to try and break through Pima’s defense, as the Redskins will need a balanced offensive attack to keep pace.
Defense will be key in this matchup. Pima’s defensive standout, Brock Haws, is leading the charge with 8 tackles and 1.3 sacks per game, aiming to keep St. Johns’ offense in check. Expect the Roughriders to try and establish the run game early to control the pace, while St. Johns will need to create turnovers and capitalize on opportunities to stay competitive.
St. Johns has had success against Pima in the past, winning a few close games in recent years. However, Pima’s recent 41-0 victory indicates they may have the upper hand this time around, especially with the home-field advantage. This game will likely come down to which team can execute their game plan more effectively and make key stops on defense.
Fort Thomas vs. Superior
WHEN: 7 p.m., Friday, September 20
WHERE: Fort Thomas High School
WHAT TO WATCH: The Fort Thomas Apaches (2-2) are set to face the Superior Panthers (1-3) in a game that both teams are eager to win after recent losses. Historically, Superior has had the upper hand in this matchup, winning the last six meetings, including a dominant 60-12 victory last season. Fort Thomas will be looking to turn things around and claim their first win against Superior since 2013.
Fort Thomas started this season with promise, securing wins over Baboquivari (36-20) and Duncan (58-36). However, they’ve hit a rough patch recently with back-to-back losses against Lincoln Prep (40-6) and San Manuel (40-32). Despite these setbacks, the Apaches have demonstrated offensive potential, particularly in their early games, where they averaged over 30 points per game.
Superior’s season has been a challenging one. Their sole victory came by forfeit against Mayer, and they’ve been outplayed in their three on-field losses. They opened the season with a 66-8 loss to Hayden and most recently fell 53-26 to Mogollon. Despite these struggles, Superior managed to show some offensive promise against Williams in a close 26-20 overtime loss, indicating they have the ability to score but need to tighten up defensively.
Key Matchup: The key battle in this game will be whether Fort Thomas can find a way to contain Superior’s offense and break the pattern of recent losses. Superior’s past success against Fort Thomas has often been driven by their ability to dominate on the ground, as seen in their 60-12 last season. For Fort Thomas, the focus will be on capitalizing on Superior’s defensive vulnerabilities, as the Panthers have allowed a high number of points in their losses this year. Establishing an early lead and maintaining offensive pressure will be crucial for the Apaches.
Historical Context: The recent history between these two teams heavily favors Superior, with Fort Thomas last winning in 2013 in a narrow 42-38 victory. Since then, Superior has dominated the rivalry, often by large margins. This game presents an opportunity for Fort Thomas to change the narrative and prove they can compete with the Panthers, particularly with the home-field advantage.
What’s at Stake: For Fort Thomas, this game is a chance to end a losing streak against Superior that spans nearly a decade and to bounce back from two consecutive losses this season. For Superior, it’s an opportunity to secure their first on-field win of the season and extend their dominance in this rivalry. Both teams have a lot to prove, and a win here could serve as a turning point in their seasons.
Prediction: Given Superior’s historical dominance and recent success against Fort Thomas, they have a psychological edge coming into this game. However, Fort Thomas has shown they can put points on the board, especially at home. If they can find a way to contain Superior’s offense and exploit their defensive weaknesses, the Apaches have a chance to break the trend and pull off a victory.
Morenci at Blue Ridge
WHEN: 7 p.m., Friday, September 20
WHERE: Blue Ridge High School
WHAT TO WATCH: The Blue Ridge Yellowjackets (4-0) are set to host the Morenci Wildcats (2-2) in a non-conference clash. Blue Ridge has been on a dominant run this season, while Morenci is looking to bounce back from a tough double-overtime loss. The two teams have a recent history, with their last meeting in the previous season where Blue Ridge narrowly defeated Morenci 24-21 in a closely contested game.
Blue Ridge enters this matchup on a tear, boasting a perfect record with a well-balanced offense and a stifling defense. They have outscored their opponents 159-14 over their first four games. Their victories include a commanding 46-0 shutout over Monument Valley, a 28-8 win against St. Johns, a 52-0 rout of Window Rock, and a 33-6 victory over Mingus. Quarterback Luke Berlin leads the offensive charge with an average of 181 passing yards per game, while running back Karlo Harris adds a strong ground presence with 144.3 rushing yards per game. Defensively, Blue Ridge has been equally impressive, led by Noah Chee, who averages 11.3 tackles and 1 sack per game. Their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball has been key to their undefeated start.
Morenci has experienced a season of close encounters and mixed results. They opened with a narrow 35-34 loss to ALA – Ironwood and followed up with a gritty 6-3 win against Round Valley. They showed their offensive potential with a 35-25 win over Benson but fell short in a 20-14 double-overtime loss to Pima. In that recent game, Morenci struggled in the air, completing just one pass for 6 yards. However, they were effective on the ground, with Julian Aragon rushing for 91 yards on 22 carries. On the defensive end, Marcus Lucero had a standout performance with 19 tackles. Morenci will need to find more consistency, especially in their passing game, to challenge Blue Ridge’s strong defense.
Key Matchup: The game will likely hinge on the battle between Morenci’s rushing attack and Blue Ridge’s stout defense. Morenci’s strategy will revolve around controlling the clock and keeping Blue Ridge’s high-powered offense off the field through their ground game led by Julian Aragon. Blue Ridge’s defense, which has been effective against both the run and the pass, will look to shut down Morenci’s rushing lanes and force them into passing situations where they’ve struggled. Offensively, Blue Ridge’s balanced attack, with the dual threat of Berlin and Harris, will test Morenci’s defense, particularly in their ability to contain the passing game.
Historical Context: These teams have met once since 2004, with that game occurring last season when Blue Ridge narrowly defeated Morenci 24-21. That close contest adds an extra layer of intensity to this matchup, as Morenci looks for revenge and to show they can go toe-to-toe with one of the top teams in the division.
What’s at Stake: For Blue Ridge, this game is an opportunity to maintain their perfect record and demonstrate their continued dominance in the division. A win would further solidify their confidence as they head into the latter part of the season. For Morenci, this game is a chance to avenge last season’s loss, rebound from their recent double-overtime defeat, and prove they can challenge top-ranked opponents. A victory here would be a significant boost and could potentially change the momentum of their season.
Prediction: Blue Ridge enters this game as the favorite, given their dominant performances this season and their win over Morenci last year. However, if Morenci can establish their rushing game early and make key stops on defense, they could keep it close and challenge Blue Ridge’s unbeaten streak. Expect a competitive matchup where both teams will need to execute effectively to secure the win.
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