The Battle for Arizona Ave
Throughout the fourth quarter of Hamilton’s victory over Mountain Pointe, the student section was chanting “We Want Chandler”. The Huskies and Wolves square off next week in one of the state’s biggest rivalries. Chandler beat Hamilton for the first time in the rivalry last year, and has the some of the weapons from last year that took down the Huskies. Hamilton has had back-to-back impressive wins over Liberty High School from Henderson, NV (21-0) and Mountain Pointe (30-10).
The Firestorm Is Everywhere
I was at the Highland-Campo Verde game last night, and like many of the games I’ve been to this year, I saw some quality football, huge student sections, school bands, and a coach from Arizona Christian University on the sideline. It seems like Donnie Yantis and his staff has been everywhere recruiting local talent to join the growing football program.
Hawks Take Flight
Speaking of Highland, I was very impressed with the play of the Hawks, specifically running back Josh Chadwick and wide receiver/defensive end Tyler Johnson. Chadwick had a receiving and rushing touchdown, and Johnson had a receiving touchdown and forced the fumble that eventually closed the door on Campo Verde. The Hawks are now 4-1. Since 2008, Highland has eclipsed the seven win mark once. The Hawks are well on their way to beat that mark, but have a tough stretch to end the season. Their last four games are at Perry, Basha, Hamilton, and at Chandler.
Broncos Gallop To Victory
Brophy beat Desert Ridge 40-35 last night. This was a huge win for the Broncos, as Desert Ridge is considered by many to be one of the elite teams in Division I. Brophy has been one of the most battle-tested teams in the state. They’ve had to play the top team in the country in Bishop Gorman, as well as Hamilton, Centennial, and now Desert Ridge. Brophy also takes on Mountain Pointe and Chaparral later this season.