Saguaro Defense Halts Horizon Offense

Story By Jordan Spurgeon

A shutout with both teams playing physical from start to finish. That perfectly describes this game.

The Saguaro Sabercats (4-1) took down the Horizon Huskies (3-2) 26-0 in Week 7 of the AIA football season. These two teams had to cancel a matchup against each other a few weeks ago due to COVID-19. 

The defense carried Saguaro in this showcase, as they forced multiple fumbles and a few sacks. 

“The defense played lights out,” Saguaro quarterback Ridge Docekal said after the game. “The defense is just the back bone of our team and they for sure played lights out.”

For the first time in his tenure, Saguaro head coach Jason Mohns is using a two-quarterback system with Docekal and Xander Werner. After Werner left with an injury in the second quarter, the game plan fell on Docekal’s shoulders. He threw for two touchdown passes, but also two interceptions in the second half. 

“It was definitely different because me and Xander have a really good play style going,” Docekal said. “It was kind of tough for me to get in a groove a little bit.”‘

Docekal said that he and Werner have a great relationship and are all in on playing in this two-quarterback system. They feed off one another.

This game will play a role in determining the Open Division playoff teams. Saguaro looks to be heading there, while Horizon will likely stay in 6A for the playoffs.

“We’re just looking forward to seeing the tape and looking at how we can play better,” Docekal said. “We still have work to do.”