4A football preview: Payson at Mountain Crest

Payson (3-6, 2-4) at Mountain Crest (5-4, 5-1)

4A State Tournament

Friday, 3 p.m.

Parry's Power Guide: Mountain Crest by 20

All-time series: First meeting

The biggest question mark coming into this game is the health of Mountain Crest quarterback Ethan Lofthouse. He hurt his knee in practice leading up to the Sky View game, and it was very evident how much the team needs him. Lofthouse is not only the leading rusher and passer, but he is also one of the leaders on defense. Without him, the Mustangs are simply not the same team. Football is definitely a team sport so that doesn't mean Mountain Crest can't advance without its star, only that it makes it that much more difficult.

Payson survived a play-in game over Springville on Tuesday just to get the opportunity to be in the playoffs. That can have both its benefits and down side. The team is riding high on confidence as Leroy Unga and Misi Wolfgramm led the team to the win, but trying to play three games over an eight-day period is exhausting. Just how fit the team is and how fast it can recover from the normal wear and tear that goes on with a football player's body will play an important factor in whether or not the Lions can advance.

Payson Lions statistical breakdown

Scoring offense: 15.5 ppg

Scoring defense: 26.0 ppg

Passing leader: Misi Wolfgramm (44-114, yards, 5 TDs )

Rushing leader: Leroy Unga (150 carries, 905 yards, 9 TDs)

Receiving leader: Alex Maynes (12 catches, 308 yards, 2 TDs)

Tackles leader: Na'oupu (67 tackles)

Sacks leader: Kenny Lyman (3.5 sacks)

Interceptions leader: Brock Peery (3 interceptions)

Note: Doesn't include Payson's last two games.

Mountain Crest Mustangs statistical breakdown

Scoring offense: 18.67 ppg

Scoring defense: 19.33 ppg

Passing leader: Ethan Lofthouse (52-102, 860 yards, 7 TDs )

Rushing leader: Ethan Lofthouse (128 carries, 678 yards, 6 TDs)

Receiving leader: Blake Hillyard (17 catches, 281 yards, 2 TDs)