4A's first round offers lots of good matchups

Orem at Bonneville

Where: Friday. When: 2 p.m. Series: Bonneville, 2-0. Last meeting: 1992.

About Orem: The Tigers enjoyed a five-game winning streak earlier in the year, but lost two of their last three to close out the season. Billy Strong is a solid running back for Orem.

About Bonneville: Even though the Lakers are 8-2, they could easily be 10-0. Bonneville lost a double-overtime game to Alta and a close game to Box Elder. Bonneville's defense has been outstanding all year.

Prediction: Bonneville.

Cyprus at Timpview

Where: Friday. When: 3 p.m. Series: Timpview, 1-0. Last meeting: 1993.

About Cyprus: Region 5's fifth seed is entering the state tournament following two blowout losses to Highland and East. Prior to that, Cyprus enjoyed a three-game winning streak.

About Timpview: The only blemish on the T-Birds' season was a double-overtime loss to Logan. Quarterback Stephen Covey spearheads Timpview's offense. Timpview's defense has given up more than two touchdowns just three times this year.

Prediction: Timpview.

Sp. Fork at Highland

Where: Friday. When: 3 p.m. Series: Highland, 2-0. Last meeting: 1980

About Spanish Fork: Started the season 5-1, but lost two of its final three games heading into the playoffs. Running back Aaron Davies and quarterback Gavin Gardner lead the Dons' offense.

About Highland: Quarterback Bo McNally is one of the most explosive and entertaining players in the state. Along with running back Marcus Mailei, the Region 5 champs going to be tough to beat.

Prediction: Highland.

Logan at Pl. Grove

Where: Friday. When: 4 p.m. Series record: Pl. Grove, 2-0. Last meeting: 1988

About Logan: Running back Dallas Larsen is the strength of the Grizzlies' offense. Logan was an up-and-down team this year that started 0-2, and then beat Olympus and Timpview the next two weeks.

About Pleasant Grove: The Vikings are hoping to ride momentum throughout the state tournament. They've won three straight games, including wins in five of its last seven.