Sports360AZ
It will be a game of redemption for the 5A state title game. The Centennial Coyotes want to avenge their state title loss last year to Williams Field. Notre Dame has been especially focused on a playoff run since being unable to participate in last year’s postseason despite sporting an 8-2 record due to sanctions.
The Centennial Coyotes have one of the best running backs in the state in Zidane Thomas, one of the most underrated running backs in the backfield as well in Alex Escobar, a dominant offensive line and hard-hitting defense. Their only loss came to Liberty in Week 10, something Richard Taylor said helped them re-focus on the task at hand and have beat national power St. Thomas Aquinas, as well as 6A power Pinnacle.
Notre Dame Prep features one of the most senior rosters in the state. With head coach George Prelock leading the way in his first year at the varsity level – he coached many of these players on the freshman team and went undefeated with them – the Saints have been one of the most impressive teams in the state. The duo of Jake Smith and Cole Fisher in the backfield has been hard to handle for opposing defenses, and the Saints aren’t short on playmakers on either side of the ball.
The Coyotes and Saints kick off at 3:37 pm at Arizona Stadium on Saturday.
