High school football: State tournament pairings

@Farce

I have to address the Farce.

Your FYI, sorry but all opinions are not unbiased. Those who have ties to certain schools are not considered biased. Thus the reason that many TV stations and referees are not allowed to broadcast or referee their alma maters school. Because they cannot remain unbiased. This is a true factual statement.

You picking Alta has nothing to do with "Homer Glasses", the fact you responded the way you did. You don't know what homer glasses are.

The theory of comparible scores that you say never works was a mock on your theory of why a certain school should win of who beat who. I was mocking you, and your thoughts that Davis will lose because Brighton beat Davis, and Lone Peak beat Brighton and it came down to the end.

Seriously, folks you have to know what you write yourself and read all the post so that their is a full knowledge of what is being said. It is not just two people taking here, there are several. You can equate which post goes with which by reading them all.

@ProudBigBrother

Maybe I didn't make myself clear enough in the several other post I laid out. I was responding to post directly to specific statements. I will try to be clear.

1) Last year is last year and I do not care what happened last year
2) This year, I think Alta is a very good team as well as Jordan, Syracuse and Bingham
3) I really do not think anyone else other than the four just mentioned have a shot at winning the title in 5A
4) I am not saying you, with your contact who plays for Alta. But, many are looking past Syracuse Football judging merely on their schedule this year. I am only saying, do not look past Syracuse, I have seen them play, they play very disciplined football.
5) Those who have played football know that a disciplined football team that plays disciplined assignment football is very hard to beat. They are talented.
6) I pick Syracuse to win this game, could Alta win, Absolutely! They are good.
7) If anyone disagrees with any of this other than my pick of course. You have never played football.

Nothing different than I have already said.

@Utah Bruin
So basically, you're claiming that if Brock Anderson, and his backup got injured, followed by Mason Woodward and Kiwa Mo'o, Syracuse would still win, because the rest of Syracuse is so fundamentally sound and diciplined? Wow, quite the claim. I highly doubt that, and I doubt that even Hagatha would agree.

And just because Alta has some outstanding players, as I would also consider Brock Anderson to be, doesn't mean that the rest of Alta is undiciplined.

I'm everywhere binghamalum, you beloved bingham fan that exited in teh 2nd round last year!!! Woot Woot!!

papi chulo is back
The fremont fan last year who loved when his beloved Silverwolves beat the Miners at there home field! and still didnt win state! even though you did beat Bingham, 2nd is as close as exiting first round.

-Ill explain I said my picks are Jordan Alta Bingham to win the state this year.

Why do I HAVE TO explain ?

Its very simple in my mind, because Syracuse has not shown me they can win state because I dont credit any of there wins at all. They will be given MUCH credit after they can beat ALTA two years in a row! Then i will tip my hat!

But this is about my opinions and my picks!

Im standing by it! saying Region 1 tomorrow is going to be eliminated!
If they arent Im not going to be suprised at....
Syracuse winning, or even Davis!

But I am not worried about Bingham or Jordan at all.
State runs through Jordan this year! So all our talk is for nothing in my opinion.

and my talk,

My pick is Jordan this year, Not Bingham just so you all know.
Best team in Utah gets 0 respect!

binghamalum

You have no credibility at all, whatsoever.

"With Jordan Alta Bingham deciding who wins it!"
--Please explain to me why these three teams will be the ones that will decide who wins the state title? Is it because someone will get paid off to have one of these three teams win it? And don't tell me it hasn't happened before, because I have proof that it has.

--And please stop getting so defensive in your posts...you "Salt Lake Valley" folks sure don't like when people prove that you are wrong...sheesh!!

SeeYa BinghamAlum, it's been good, not! You asked questions and I was one who you addressed at the top so I will give my two cents.

1) You let those SLV teams do the talking, I would hope they would since we only have 4 5A schools compared to your 13 and we have to somehow count Lehi as 5A. Darn, you win.

2) I haven't polled all the SLC schools on fear of an opponent, so you got me there because you have. Dang, you win again.

3) You included 'Cuse as one of four schools where the title will be, then you exclude them the next sentence. I agreed with your first statement of the 4. Yes, a draw.

4) ???Basketball??? This is football. I win!

5) Your picks, you might be right. I disagree, but you very well be right I don't doubt that.

6) Your LP question, I have seen them play

7) Lone Peak has to play and execute better

8) Last year, nobody cares about last year ask the SF Giants what they thought about St Louis this year because of last year.

9) They are in and they won

10) Last year

HAGATHA,

Utah bruin,

no more talk!

Ill let the Salt Lake Valley schools do the talking! Becuase that is where 5Afootball state title will be this year! It took one year off and went to Utah county.

But this year, its Jordan Vs Bingham/Alta/Syracuse

With Jordan Alta Bingham deciding who wins it!

Ive stated no one is affraid of Region one because for 8 years, not one single title has went north of Salt Lake in 5A football

Basketball will be the same thing, Lone Peak will keep it down there, 7years.

There are your facts.

My picks so I wont comment again

Alta Wins 24-21
Bingham wins 50-7
Lone Peak wins 28-17
Jordan wins 50-14

How can you say that Lone Peak is not who people say they are???
What more do They have to do????
They won region 4! They lost the Utah HS football POY in 2011, you have a brand new QB, They won the region still.

Davis BARELY made it into the playoffs, then Beat Kearns! (congratslookout)

They dont do it pretty but you know what they have done..........
2011state5Afootballchamps

Exactly UtahBruin.

And you don't need to be sorry about putting Alta 4th. I know that is just your opinion and I know that you are a fan of the game that isn't biased like others, so I respect your comment about who you think will win te 5A title.

Just keep it real, that is all Hagatha and I are asking. Real, True, Unbiased Opinions.

Alta is good, nobody doubts that.

'Cuse is good, everybody doubts that because of a schedule they played (But Dominated)

Jordan is good, nobody doubts that

Bingham is good, nobody doubts that

Lone Peak is good, right? I don't think so, but they must be they beat Bingham and are 8-2. Go watch them play, they are average at best, thus the reason Davis is favored this week and why most anticipate a close game either way.

The title in 5A this year goes through (in my own opinion of order) 1)Jordan 2) Syracuse 3) Bingham 4) Alta. I have seen all 4 of these schools play more than once or twice, this is where my opinion comes from. Does it mean I am right, absolutely not. But I just might be right. And with the defense that I have given on all these teams, you have to consider that I could be or agree with some of it. I do not doubt any of these teams putting it all together and winning it, Alta is 4th for me. Sorry.

@ProudBigBrother

You indicate that strength of schedule "DOES" matter.

Two things here.

First, I have never said that Alta did not play a tough schedule, they did, they played some pretty good teams. I don't think anybody disagrees with you or the other bunch of posters on here crying the same thing about their schools, myself included. They played good schools.

Second, Strength of Schedule does not mean a dang thing, this is proven year after year in the College BCS poll. Aside from that, it comes down to the play on the field, execution, discipline, execution, discipline.

Give me 22 good players who execute and are disciplined and you take your 3 or 4 great players with your team, (your reason for losing last year, not mine - because of injuries) and my 22 good players will beat you every single time. Doesn't matter where I play, or my schedule compared to yours. 'Cuse executes and plays disciplined football and are better this year than last, thus my reason for picking them. I question Alta's discipline and execution. This is my "Sports Analysis". I will gladly say I missed when Alta wins if that happens. I don't thinks so.

@ProudBigBrother

Just when I thought you were an educated poster you fail me. If you read my post like you say you did, you would see that I was mocking Parry's Farce. Also, I didn't defend 'Cuse schedule, again you have to read. I simply stated a few facts in contradiction to the Farces statement. I made a simple statement in regards to someone else's comment.

And you say it is called "Sports Analysis", if that is what you and Farce think you are doing, then in Mr. Farce's and Bingham Alums case the homer glasses need to be removed before you do it. You can't analyze something while rooting for someone, that is my whole point. I have no problem with peoples comments or analysis, but don't give the watered down version of anyones school colors. Along with your so called "Sports Analysis" that nobody here is professional and getting paid, myself included, it is called debate. You have to read all the post, not just the ones you want to, it makes more sense that way. Man I am so disappointed, I thought you were one of the logical ones. Tisk Tisk

@UtahBruin
"you guys spend way to much time in the past and trying to justify your predictions."

I agree with you here. I am a fan and love the game and love to know the facts about teams and schools etc.

There are others (we won't name any names) who spend waaay too much time in the past trying to justify their predictions and they call it "sports analysis" yet they can't even get their facts straight.

Once you get your facts straight, then we can have a discussion on sports analysis and we can analyze without bias what our thoughts are on the games.

At least you are one person on here that has some common sense and doesn't just live in a fantasy past.

@binghamalum

Example # 6 of incorrect statements/flat out lies...

"I dont get how hagatha thinks becuase they go 4-0 in playoffs means they are the best!"

--I never once said or wrote the above statement. Go back and CHECK your facts! Stop making things up or putting words into my mouth that I did not say.

Example # 7
0 football titles since 2003 (davis). That will continue!
Same with basketballbutthatwas2004.(fremont)

--Davis won the state title in football in 2004, not 2003.
--Fremont won the state basketball title in 2005, not 2004.

Get your facts straight before posting!

I keep hearing how Alta's players went down last year. Maybe they need more conditioning to stay healthly for the playoff run. Dont blame that on getting beat. You plain got messed up. The scheduling needs to be talked about. Why arent you complaining about last years schedule for Syracuse? It is the same schedule as last years team. These kids cant control that scheduling stuff. They just go out and play their opponents. I do hope evryone stay healthly because we will be treated to and awesome game. You play to your competition.

@Utah Bruin
It's called Sports Analysis! Every sports team and every sports network employs people to do this kind of thing, because it's fun and makes the sport more interesting, and helps build the anticipation and educate everyone about both teams history and expectations. No one is twisting your arm to read our analysis. Feel free to take your own advise; "Be a fan and make your pick", if that's all you want to do. No one is begging for more from you.

And if you'd like to continue posting, we'll be happy to keep arguing out opposing points of view with you.

@Football Fan

Syracuse won. Against a completely different team than Alta had used to achieve their #2 seed. As has been stated, several times, Alta's starting QB went down early. The backup QB went down a short time later. Then their star running back, who had carried the team all year went down, too. And who did they have to rely on in their passing game? Well, unfortunately their star receiver from last year (and this year), Ammon Barker, didn't play that game because of an injury the previous week. So cudos to Syracuse for pulling off the 2011 upset, but riding on last year's victory is a pretty weak argument.

Hopefully neither team suffers any game-changing injuries this year so they can just duke it out the way we all hope they will! With Alta winning in the end, of course :)

@BinghamAlum

And it seems I must do the same to you that I did for Parry is a Farce. Your logic suggest that Lone Peak beats Davis because Brighton beat Davis and Brighton took Lone Peak to the end. In fact here is your ramblings..."Do you know Brighton beat that Davis team, and Brighton had Lone Peak until the last minute...."

So your theory suggest that Lone Peak will beat Davis because of the common opponent. So Davis scored 14 against Brighton and gave up 21, and Lone Peak scored 24 against Brighton but gave up 17. So in this game judging of course on the Brighton games, Lone Peak wins because they scored 24 and Davis only scored 14, and Brighton gave up less to Davis then they did to Lone Peak. So that must mean that Lone Peak even has a bigger advantage.

Seriously, you guys spend way to much time in the past and trying to justify your predictions. Be a fan, love the game, go ahead and make your pick, and if you win great, lose so what. We all have opinions, but your justification is flat out crazy. Don't be homers! Be fans!

I could be wrong, however, I believe the same could be said about Alta's schedule last year as well. Remind me, how did that game end?

Welcome Back BinghamAlum. So how did that move to Bingham work out for you? You won a couple of titles, that move must have really given a boost to your career in playing for a good Div 1 school right? Maybe you met your wife at Bingham, it can happen. You got a better education at Bingham, I think I am stretch'in it here. So you played at Bingham, that is great!

However, let me try to answer one of your questions. Why is Lone Peak the underdog at home to Davis? Because Lone Peak is not who everyone thinks they are just by looking at a record. I am telling you once again, Lone Peak is over rated, they still may win Friday, but I don't think so. Your a Bingham boy, I get it, you therefore think LP is amazing because they beat Bingham. Everyone who saw that game knows that Bingham should have worked them. Take away some last minute heroics by back ups, take away some stupid coaching by Bingham and they win easily. Thus the reason I say don't judge the team by a schedule, judge them by performance through a visual test.

@UtahBruin

Could you please make up your mind on the validity of judging a team's skill based on their strength of schedule? Because in one post you said, "you Alta lovers are putting way to much into a schedule. The only thing I can think is that you never played sports in your life", and in the very next post you spent the entire comment defending Syracuse's strength of schedule, listing all that "7 of 9" information. So if the opponents played don't matter, why are you bothering to defend Syracuse's foes?

The fact of the matter is that strength of schedule DOES matter, and as shown by Parry is a Farce, Alta's was much tougher. Several people, myself included, have agreed that Alta's SofSch was the toughest in the state.

That being said, and even as an Alta fan, I hope Alta isn't looking past this game, because Syracuse has plenty to bring to the field! And in talking with my brother, who plays for Alta, I don't think they are looking past the Titans. I can see it being close, or either of the teams running away with it.

Gunnar: 5 of the 7 had winning region records, 5 had winning overall records and one was .500

ParryisaFarce: I am not denying Alta played a tough schedule. The thing is don't knock 3A schools to hard, they beat several teams still in the 4 and 5A playoffs. The wins came against winning 5A and 4A playoff teams. Don't sell these 3A boys short, they can play with almost anyone and have beaten some good competition. So when you are judging competition, since we have a comparable in Riverton, well 'Cuse shut them out and scored 23, Alta gave up 7 and 14 and scored 19 and 27 in two games, average those out and Alta gave up 10.5 and scored 23, so in your theory 'Cuse scored 23 on Riverton and Alta averaged 23 on Riverton but gave up on average 10.5 points to 'Cuse's 0, that means 'Cuse would win on averages. Right? Listen, I don't know who wins the game, I pick 'Cuse, my opinion. But Alta very well could win this game. I get what you are saying, the difference is I give Alta credit, you give 'Cuse none because of a schedule.

OK im back!

@hagatha and Utahbruin

I grew up in Box Elder, but I knew Northern Utah was not going to get me seen and not allow me to win state titles.

Moved to Bingham, won two state titles,
I like northern utah football enjoyed one town one team, but........ comeon

To the Region 1 believers......Like I said 0-4 this weekend! region 1 is gone.

Bingham Kills Fremont!

Lone Peak wins by 10 points, which is a typical game for them,

Jordan willllllllll win by 30 points! (no way is it close at all)

Alta will go into Syracuse and win (Best game)
I dont get how hagatha thinks becuase they go 4-0 in playoffs means they are the best!

You just beat 4 really bad teams, Bingham would of stomped Hunter by 40 points and is going to stomp fremont by 40

How does lone Peak who won there region, become the underdog to Davis who had to win a playin game to just be in!

Do you know Brighton beat that Davis team, and brighton had Lone Peak until the last minute....

0 football titles since 2003 (davis). That will continue!
Same with basketballbutthatwas2004.(fremont)

UtahBruin: I'm curious because I don't have the stats on the 7 playoff teams Cuse played during the season. How many of those 7 teams had winning records during the season? Region records, and over all records? Like I said, I don't know so am just asking an honest question because I'm curious.

And Hagatha is back with hopefully the final knockout blow. He is right, only one 3A team folks. Not to mention it again to you biased fans who keep hammering the 'Cuse schedule, they also played 9 games with pre and regular season, 7 of those 9 teams made the playoffs, and 5 of those teams are still alive in the playoffs. Don't care who won and who lost, 5 are still alive because they are winners, and I would really only call one an upset if you really want to give it that much credit of Fremont over Hunter. I have to agree with my friend Hagatha, this is all getting old. Same ole stuff and nobody tries to learn from it. And @ Parry is a Farce, you said you agreed with my points and then you hammer my point of 'Cuse only giving up 70 not 7 points is I think what you meant. 'Cuse didn't play a bunch of Lehi's, you are confusing that with Region 2, see notes above, 'Cuse played 7 playoff teams of 9 of which 5 of the 7 are still alive.

I think goaggies1 makes some very valid points that I agree with. I am not a Alta or a 'Cuse fan, I am a fan of the game. But you Alta lovers are putting way to much into a schedule. The only thing I can think is that you never played sports in your life. So all of you can honestly say that when you played on the ultimate favorite team(s), you never got upset. I hope Alta goes into 'Cuse thinking like you all that this is an easy win because of the schedule 'Cuse played. I guarentee you that if your Hawks walk into 'Cuse with that attitude they are going to get smacked in the mouth, and hard.

I wish both these teams luck, it is ultimately the absolute game of the week next to Hurricane and JD. But this one is bigger just because it is 5A. I hope it is a great flawless game for both and may the true best team win.

Example # 5 From Prep Fanatic (In regards to Syracuse schedule)
Their schedule consisted of two 3A teams, with only one of them qualifying them for the playoffs in Desert Hills.

--As I have stated before and will state again if necessary, Syracuse played one 3A team this year in a very good Desert Hills team. Unless there was some mystery 3A game that they played that I don't know about, you need to check your facts before posting incorrect statements. Posting incorresct statements will not give you credibility.

Syracuse has played one of the weakest schules in 5A, so they are unproven against good competition. Their schedule consisted of two 3A teams, with only one of them qualifying them for the playoffs in Desert Hills. They played a very weak 4A Skyline team, that got crushed last week against Bountiful in the first round of the playoffs. And then there's Region 1. Weak, weak teams. 10-0 is a great feat, but who did you play? Alta on the other hand, played the toughest schedul in the state, and probably the toughest region in the state. Yes they got crushed by Don Bosco Prep, but there isn't a team in this entire state that wouldv'e been in that ball game as well. Don Bosco is currently the fifth best team in the country. Alta will be Syracuse's first real test of the season, and this Alta team has way more talent and depth than last years team.

5A Semi finals:

Alta vs Bingham
Lone Peak vs Jordan

Sorry Region 1, but none of your teams will make it past this week.

Syracuse has played no competition this year! If Alta had that schedule, they too would be 10-0, and have the least amount of points scored against them. All you Region 1ers that think that syracuse is going to roll all over Alta, have another thing comeing. Alta has a great defense, and behind Jordan, has probably the second best offense in the state. Their offense is loaded with weapons, that I don't think Syracuse has seen this year. They are not one deminsional. Alta also plays their best games on the road. Alta's has played the toughest schedule in the state of Utah this year, and that has prepared them for this game against Syracuse on Friday. Lets not keep remembering last years gam as well. Alta entered that game at 9-1, and ranke #2 in 5A. Yes Syracuse beat them, but they beat a sophomore quarterback that had no varsity experience. Offense was very lackluster after losing their starting quarterback, their starting running back, and yes their backup quarterback, all to injuries in one game. That doesn't happen very often to a football team. Alta will take it to Syracuse on friday. Go Hawks!

And I started at LB for that team. It was vs Provo and they thumped us! :(

Here up north we would get hung for throwing the ball in the second half. Jordan won 56-0. I think there was also a record involved with this win. Syracuse could have run up the scores on a bunch of teams but that is not how we judge how good a team is. I also think stats are getting inflated as well for some of the state honors at the end of the year. But dont blame the kids this year for playing a weaker schedule, the team last year played those same teams. It will be a great game and I think all that go will see a good fight. This years team is even better and more rounded than last years team. And they do have depth. Dont hate this years team from what last years team did with the same schedule. We were to play East last year for the first game of the season but they backed out to play Pineview instead. They are trying to schedule better teams. Go "Cuse"!!!!!!!!!!

But it does matter who you play. If Bingham played a season full of Lehi's, they would have given up 7 points all year. One reason Syracuse didn't have a letdown is because they played a bunch of weak Region 1 teams. The reason you don't see the top teams like Bingham playing 3A-4A teams is because it does nothing for them. They would walk all over those teams and they would learn nothing from it. They try and schedule the best out there so they are ready and battle tested come playoff time. I'm calling at least a 35 pt win this week by Bingham over Fremont. This team has a very bad taste in it's mouth from last year. As do the coaches that I've spoke with. So I don't see them calling the dogs off very early in this one. Again I am calling Syracuse beating Alta at home. But if that does happen, their winning streak will end at 11 having to get Bingham in the semi's.

My hopes for the playoffs: Northridge upsets Jordan, and ends up in the finals for a rematch with Syracuse. Any other region 1 fans think that would be crazy??

I can see changing LP to 4 stars. However, I think Bingham is worthy of 5 stars, and since LP beat then I had a hard time not giving them credit for that. And since Alta beat Bingham (and Timpview), I'd say they deserve 5, as well. But we all know in bias when it comes to Alta :)

The main point of rating the teams in that matter was really just to show that regions 1, 3 and 4 are just about even in talent. I think it did that.

I know that Kafentzis has been approached by BYU, and that they made a soft offer of interest, but I don't think he actually committed. Schools aren't allowed to approach players with actual offers until after the player's junior year, or something like that. I'm sure plenty of other schools will come knocking later on.

@Parry is a Farce

I agree with you that Region 2 is bad. I never said Region 1 was good because of who they did or did not beat, I am looking only at on field performances. Seeing the athletes, speed, discipline (which by the way I think is a huge part of football) coaching decisions, etc. Don't strictly judge by who they play, 3a, 4a, does not matter. It is how they perform, what they do. If you have played sports you know that many times athletes play to the level of competition, that is why we see upsets every year in high school, college, etc. Judge by who they are and how they play. People say, (I am not saying you) Syracuse is not that good because of who they have played and are overrated. They have given up 70 points this year, they did not have many let downs like Bingham who should have beaten Lone Peak. Don't judge a book by the cover, judge by what's on the inside, in this case the team itself, not schedule. That is all I am saying and what I think Hagatha is saying.

@ProudBigBrother

I have heard that Kafentzis kid has already given a verbal to BYU? Do you know if this is true. I just thought that as highly touted as this kid is around here and for his age he is only going to get better and bigger schools may come calling as Alabama with the C-Wood kid. What do you know on this?

As for your Five Star System, I like it. However mine would go a little more like this.

Region 1 - 17 Stars - I gave Layton a two instead of a three.
Region 2 - 12 Stars - I actually gave Kearns a three, I thought the top of that region was very equal
Region 3 - 16 Stars - I dropped Alta and Brighton 1 a piece
Region 4 - 17.5 Stars - I dropped LP to three and a half stars if I can, I have seen them play to much to justify a five. And for Riverton and PG, I will give 3's also, I think both teams are on the cusp of being legit 4's or even 5's in the next year or two

Parity is only among three regions right now

Here is how I see the 5A Regions breakdown on skill level. To simplify it, I'm using a 5 Star rating system.

Region 1:
Syracuse - 5 stars
Northridge - 4 stars
Davis - 3 stars
Freemont - 2 stars (based on performance, not what could have been without injury)
Layton - 3 stars
Weber - 1 star
Total: 18 stars

Region 2:
Hunter - 3 stars
Granger - 3 stars
Kearns - 2 stars
West - 1 star
Viewmont - 1 star
Taylorsville - 1 star
Total: 11 stars

Region 3:
Jordan - 5 stars
Alta - 5 stars
Brighton - 4 stars
Cottonwood - 2 stars
West Jordan - 1 star
Copper Hills - 1 star
Total: 18

Region 4:
Lone Peak - 5 stars
Bingham - 5 stars
Riverton - 3 stars
Pleasant Grove - 3 stars
American Fork - 2 stars
Lehi - 1 star
Total: 19

Based on this, it seems like pretty much all the regions except 2 are fairly equal. Couple good, couple average and a couple bad teams.

@Parry is a Farce

"Yea, seen that self appointed leader thing blow up more than once."

You mean like the Obama Campaign, Hitler, Stallin.....sorry this is football, I just couldn't resist.

Listen Layton, I don't think Hagatha is really trying to push your buttons, I just have to agree with him that to many people spew on here and it is simple school pride more than talking real knowledge. I am not saying you are a spewer, you made it clear you are a Binghamite, not a Lancer. So I appreciate your comments on Region 1 and 2, however, you even lost me a bit with the 1-3 deal, I am not sure how or where the embellishment comes from. But regardless, potato, puhtato. I agree with you that Davis and Lone Peak is going to be a close game, I admit, I have not seen Davis play this year, I have seen Lone Peak more than I want to and they are sloppy, I just think Region 1 is better than people think.

@Parry is a Farce
Yea, seen that self appointed leader thing blow up more than once.

--Did I ever mention that I was a self appointed leader? I don't think so, correct me if I'm wrong. You are assuming that I am a self appointed leader...and like I've said before, we all know what happens when we assume things right?

I would spell it out for you, but if I do that, my comment won't be able to go through the moderators, so you'll have to figure this one out on your own.

--Don't get mad when someone corrects you after you have made a mistake, get glad because that person wanted to educate you and increase your knowledge on the subject.

@Fan Of The Game

Good self correction :) I had also heard that Kafentzis was 18, which I confirmed was not true. He is just an incredible 16 year old sophomore QB! I plan on following his high school career, even though my connection to high school ball will have moved on to college next year.

@UtahBruin
Thank you. It is finally nice to see someone else on these boards that is not biased and actually knows something about high school football instead of being closed minded and unwilling to research or learn about the facts.

-I love your comment about the Fremont-Bingham game--*Just so there are no more questions from binghamalum. :)

-The Davis & LP game to me is a toss-up...I don't like either of those teams, so it's hard for me to say who I want to win. I have seen LP play once this year and seen Davis a couple of times, and Davis hasn't impressed me, but then again neither has LP. I think it will be close, but I think that LP gets some "calls" that go their way and give them the win at home.

@ Parry is a Farce
"Who made you the monitor and put in charge of correcting everyone? You need to chill a little."

--I made myself the monitor and put myself in charge of correcting everyone, because I am a leader and that's what I do. I get sick of all the people that don't know anything that post on here thinking they know everything about high school football. The truth shall be set free!

"If Fremont was so good, they'd beat Davis and no play-in would have been necessary."
--Like I had said in one of my previous posts, Fremont has had injuries all year long that has plagued their team in many different positions and if they would have been healthy when they played Davis, they would have beaten them handily as well. But, injuries are part of the game and it is something that has to be dealt with by every team.

@Hagatha

You make some very true points. I am a California transplant and even I knew BE had been 4A for several years. I coached at a Utah County school when we were expected to win in the early rounds in 2004 and we walked into BE only to get smacked. They have been 4A for some time now.

I have to say I disagree with some of your predictions, so here are mine. It is nice to finally meet someone open minded with an unbiased opinion.

Predictions(5A):
What will really happen:
--'Cuse 23 Alta 17
--Bingham 56 Fremont 12 - Only because Fremont gives up just too many points

--Jordan 30 Northridge 20
--Davis 21 Lone Peak 19

What I want to happen(but will likely not happen):
--Syracuse 21 Alta 20 (OT) *I agree with you this would be fun
--Fremont 29 Bingham 20 *Just so there are no more questions from binghamalum

--Jordan 31 Northridge 28 *I just think Jordan deserves it, they are good
--Davis 24 Lone Peak 21 *I just don't like LP and I think they are very overrated

Just my 1 cent, not even worth 2 cent

I would like to retract my previous comment about Jordans QB being 18. Got information from unreliable source. Regardless, still an amazing athlete.

@ plyxply
Who did you play for and when? and who did you coach for and when?

I'm not worked up about Box Elder, I just like to make a point and prove it to people that think they know everything about high school football in the state of Utah.

I played sports in Region 1 and have actually won a state championship in one of the sports I played, can you say that? Didn't think so.

@plyxply
Hagatha you're correct Box Elder is a 4A school, they moved up when I wasn't looking.

--They have been a 4A school, for quite some time now...they were a 4A school when they won the state championship back in 1995, and that was 17 years ago, so you must not look up North very often, course then again a lot of the Salt Lake and Utah County folk do not like to look up north at all, and hate to see the success of the northern Utah teams over their all county teams in SL and Utah county. My advice, look up north more often, it'll expand your horizons and make you a more rounded person.

plyxply
If you saw that Don Bosco team you forgot to say the final play of the game a kick off return to give them their final points. Alta got hammered. Lets tell the right story. 31-0 before Alta even relized what hit them.

Final Comment

Also if Northridge utilizes their leading running back more without the ball as much as they do with the ball, they can be just as, if not more successful. NO question he is a talented athlete, but sometimes as a coach, focusing on an individual rather than the team can cause cancers within the team that you don’t know exists. Example, when they played Syracuse, 4th and inches to the goal line, everyone knew who the ball was going to, (like in every game) a simple play action or possibly a counter and the game goes in a different direction. Instead, Syracuse makes the stop and game is over. In the end, I expect the game to be a good one, but if adjustments are not made during the game, it’s going to be a long bus ride back to the “’Ridge”.

plyxply
If you were at that Don Bosco game when they played Alta you saw them get wooped by a great team. Alta had no chance to win that game. Their running game was bad, their passing game wasnt much better. I think Alta finally scored when it was 31-0. I was sitting on the Don Bosco side. Don Bosco would give Snow College a great game. Their defense got eat"in up. So ont come out at say they were awesome. Syracuse will beat Alta. Write it down. syracuse has nothing to prove or out for revenge. They just play tough football on all three phases of th game. Yea I know they havent played anyone up to your standards try telling that to the players. This Syracuse bunch of boys have only been beaten once in 3 years of playing. Northridge is there only lose 3 years ago. "Nobody comes into our backyard and pushes around". Syracuse can play with any team in the state any given week.

Comment Part 3

when it comes to Jordan and Northridge,I’ll say this, one of the biggest advantages of being a 5A school is your depth. I believe that Northridge has this depth but has not utilized it throughout the season. I have also heard that Syracuse hasn’t as well. Both have admitted that several players not only play both ways but start both ways. I am in total agreement that you put the best players on the field but as a coaching staff, it is also your responsibility to ensure that your TEAM is prepared, not just your 7-9 starters. I believe that both teams were able to do this while playing inferior teams throughout the regular season, but when it comes to playing stronger teams this may come back to haunt them.

Comment Part 2

I would have to agree with some of the other previous posts, Region 3 has got to be the toughest Region, at least this year. It is undeniable that their schedule was much tougher than any other Region. As for Syracuse, also a very good team. The game with Northridge went down to the wire, although I feel that a botched snap was the biggest momentum shifter of the game. Based off of the games played and strength of schedule I predict Alta over Syracuse, Bingham over Fremont, Lone Peak over Davis.

Comment Part 1

First, let me say that I am new to the area and that this is my first experience with Utah High School football. I have been really impressed. I have a son who is currently on the Northridge roster, but I have tried to keep up with all the teams, at least 4A and 5A. Since I have been to the majority of my Sons games, I have not had the opportunity to see the great teams from the other Regions, although I have read up and researched stats. When Jordan played the team from California, I was really impressed. I mean for them to play up to the level of such a high caliber team that is ranked so high in the Nation, says a lot about Utah High School football. They really seem to have a solid team and the QB is a beast. I was researching his stats from his freshman year as well as this year and the numbers are just crazy. For this young man to have over 1,000 yrds rushing and over 2,000 yrds passing is incredible, until I found out he is an 18 year old sophomore. Really?

I love reading all of these comments on the games this weekend. Hagatha you're correct Box Elder is a 4A school, they moved up when I wasn't looking.
My opinion is that Syracuse has a very good defense, but Alta's offense is outstanding. They scored 24 points against Don Bosco, only one team has scored that many points on DBP in the last 4 years and it was Bergen Catholic who scored 27 in the NJ state title game in 2010. Included in those games were Manatee Fl (currently ranked #1), De La Salle, Bergen Catholic, (5 other games held under 24 pts), St Thomas Aquinas, and numerous other top 50 programs in the nation.
Those of you who didn't see the Alta vs DBP game this year will try and say that Alta scored against the backups, which is not the case. DBP played their starters until the final play.
We'll know soon enough how good the Cuse defense is.

Predictions(5A):
What will really happen:
--Alta 17 Syracuse 14
--Bingham 31 Fremont 14

--Jordan 45 Northridge 35
--Lone Peak 28 Davis 13

What I want to happen(but will likely not happen):
--Syracuse 21 Alta 20 (OT)
--Fremont 23 Bingham 20

--Northridge 35 Jordan 31
--Davis 24 Lone Peak 21

----But hey, that's why you play the game, right? Anything can happen on any given day in sports.

@Parry is a Farce
-Bingham beats Fremont handily, Fremont graduated a special class last year and is just not that good, they probably should have lost to Layton and not even be in the tournament but a good draw against a champion from a bad Region 2 gets them here.

--Fremont should have lost to Layton?? Oh, wait, you are from Layton, so that's why you say that...FYI Fremont dominated Layton from start to finish and shut them out.

If anyone shouldn't have gone to the playoffs from Region 1 it should have been Davis whose great defense gave up 41 points to your mighty Layton Lancers.

Fremont has had multiple injuries all year long that have plagued their quarterbacks and running backs and lineman. If they don't have these injuries, they would have beaten everybody from Region 1 except Syracuse.

And round and round we go Jack...

Example # 5 From Parry is a Farce: I think Region 2 would have gone 1-3 if they'd played each other in the first round.

Well, if the 4 teams from Region 2 would have played each other, it would have gone 2-2. There is no other way they could go...unless of course the UHSAA steps in and makes some teams forfeit the game, and not others...but they would never do that, right?

These are the schedules that Alta and Syracuse have played thus far, and the number on the right is the current National ranking for their opponents. As you can see, Alta has by far played tougher opponents this year and their SOS is 36.8, which is the best in the state. Syracuse's SOS is 22.5, which is one of the lower ones in both 5A and 4A. Alta has prepared for this game, by playing a tougher schedule, which will equate to a win. Don't get me wrong, Syracuse is a good team at 10-0, but Alta is better.

Alta (142)
5Don Bosco PrepL
73TimpviewW
98JordanL
210BinghamW
960RivertonW
960Riverton W
965BrightonW
2599Cottonwood W
2846Olympus W
3206West Jordan W
7421Copper Hills W

Syracuse (165)
554Northridge W
816Box Elder W
960RivertonW
1228DavisW
1631Desert Hills W
2548Fremont W
3229LaytonW
3500SkylineW
7006WeberW
7363ViewmontW

The other thing that I think helps Alta's cause and gives them an important edge in big-time-game experience are their games vs Timpview, Bingham, Jordan and Don Bosco. All four of those games were very intense, both in pregame hype and actual play. Alta is used to playing under pressure, and since two if those games were losses, they have learned to settle down under pressure and just focus on the task at hand. I've always found in competing that I learn a lot, often times more, from the games I lose. Alta vs Bingham at RES is one if the biggest rivalry games of the year and brings an intense playoff-like atmosphere, as anyone who has attended can attest to. And the game vs Jordan, AT Jordan, was very high stakes, as they both knew they were playing for the region title.

In contrast, Syracuse's only real challenge and significant game was against Northridge. I think Alta will come prepared mentally and physically to take it to Syracuse on both O&D.

I would still love to hear a statistical based reason that 'Cuse has Alta's number.

Thank you for your responses, biased or not. I agree that Syracuse's D is outstanding, the best in the league most likely. As for the Riverton example, I wish it had been later in the year, because I'm sure both teams have improved immensely since their third and fourth week, evident in the fact that Alta dominated Riverton so proficiently in the first round, scoring 27 unanswered points in three quarters before letting second string take over (Riverton TDs were against the depth roster, not starters).

An interesting fact about Alta's O&D: In the last four games, during the quarters that Alta's first string played, Alta's points for/against is 144/6, and that 6 points was on a Copper Hills kickoff return. Syracuse defense is most likely better, but Alta's D should have what it takes to make stops against the Syracuse offense.

Utahfootballfan
Jordan never played NRidge last year. NRidge played LP. It was a good game. Jordan played Viewmont. Then Jordan played LP. Also a good game. I think it will be a fun game to watch.

@ProudBigBrother
Thanks for your analysis early on, its pretty cool to look at.

I still think
Syracuse beats Alta in a close game in the high teens low twenties in scoring
Bingham will crush Fremont (props to Fremont though for eliminating a number 1 team from the playoffs... I don't care which Region its from)
Davis beats Lone Peak (Davis will surprise them)
Jordan beats Northridge in a close game. Should be good

Syracuse then beats Bingham
Jordan beats Davis

I then will give my final guess with total bias... Syracuse beats Jordan...
I have no proof, I just want it to happen.

@Proud Big Brother
I will be honest, I am biased... I graduated from Syracuse and witnessed Syracuse get hammered by Alta in the playoffs in 2009, so I really want Syracuse to win.

That being said... Their defense is very good... If you look at Syracuse's history... Defense has always been their strong point. Early on they were small and a new program, so against big schools it didn't work to well... Beating Alta last year shows that they have made the turn and have that high quality... That has continued this year.
Now their competition wasn't that good, but if you look at how many points they allowed... That's impressive. Especially in the case of Riverton and Skyline. Skyline scored a lot of points this year and Syracuse shut them out...

I agree that Alta and Syracuse are about even, but in the only similar game... Syracuse shut down Riverton 23-0 and Alta won both times but by less... That is never a perfect judgment, but its something we can go off of...
I stick with what I said before...

I know both teams pretty well...if Alta and Syracuse both play their best game, Syracuse has a small edge. However, both teams have the potential to blow the other team off the field if they don't play their "A" game. They both have a lot of athleticism. Alta definitely has an advantage in the area of depth since Syracuse plays 7 guys both ways. I know that their defense suffers a bit because of this.

I think they both have next level players. Unfortunately, the Syracuse coaches do very little to promote their kids. They don't put their stats in MaxPreps and other sites like Alta, Davis, Jordan, etc...in addition, they had several kids invited to camps this year and the coaches told them they couldn't go because the camps conflicted with their own camp. Many of the Syracuse kids have sacrificed their personal stats and promotion so they can play both ways and support the overall team. That is very impressive to me. Alta coaches have credentials but Syracuse has one of the best d-coordinators I have seen in a long time.

AllDayEreDay is right, each region has two good teams (R1 Syracuse and Northridge, R2 Hunter and Granger (just decent teams), R3 Jordan and Alta, R4 Lone Peak and Bingham), and some of the rest of the teams just have flashes of fortune. So really, if you're going to judge strength of schedule, you need to look at the non-region games. Which is why Alta has the toughest schedule this year. Their non-region games were Timpview, Bingham, Olympus (pretty easy team), Riverton and Don Bosco NJ. Throw Jordan in as their tough region opponent and that's a pretty freakin' hard regular season! And they came out of it 8-2.

Now, follow that up with a lineup of Riverton, Syracuse, Bingham and Jordan as potential post season foes and that may be one of the hardest fought title runs seen in a long time! I'm not suggesting they are favored to do it, but if they manage it... Crazy!

@Gunner
Who has Syracuse played, a bunch of 3A teams and a crappy region schedule...

What makes Region 1 so crappy? is it because they went 4-0 in the first round of the playoffs? No other region can say that. Region 1 may lose 3 or 4 games this weekend. But they have all 4 teams from their region playing this weekend. Can your region say that? There are a couple of really really good teams in each region this year and after the top 2 teams its soft in every region. Everyone for the most part had a crappy region schedule. From the way the playoffs have worked out so far its seems like Region 1 has the toughest region... Region 1 4-0, Region 2 0-4, Region 3 2-2, Region 4 2-2.

In page 1 of this thread, I listed some fair and unbiased opinions as to how Alta and Syracuse match up. Personally, I'm cheering for Alta, because my brother is a play-maker there, so I'm hoping they win, but I don't see it as a clear cut victory for either team. Both are good teams and I give Syracuse credit where it's due, but Alta is also a good team, offensively and defensively.

I get the feeling that people keep reading other people's prior posts, which mostly stated that 'Cuse would win, and they have reposted it as their own opinion after buying into other people's opinions, without looking at both teams and deciding based on the facts.

Can anyone, who has looked at both teams in some depth, give me a clear and educated reason why Syracuse is apparently so highly favored that everyone thinks they'll win? I'm honestly just curious what the reasons are. I'd like a chance to answer your reasoning.

@Gunner
Who has Syracuse played, a bunch of 3A teams and a crappy region schedule...

What makes Region 1 so crappy? is it because they went 4-0 in the first round of the playoffs? No other region can say that. Region 1 may lose 3 or 4 games this weekend. But they have all 4 teams from their region playing this weekend. There are a couple of really really good teams in each region this year and after the top 2 teams, its soft in every region. Everyone for the most part had a crappy region schedule. From the way the playoffs have worked out so far its seems like Region 1 has the toughest region... Region 1 4-0, Region 2 0-4, Region 3 2-2, Region 4 2-2.

@amanap

perhaps I'm defending truth, in the words of Uncle Ben "With great power comes great responsibility."

@amanap

I'm not conceding at all. Just keepin' it 100. I'm not like a typical PV fan who thinks their team is the best assembled team year after year, who's going undefeated and winning state. You seem to know defensive schemes very well, you should apply for a DC position at your alma mater. You jus mad cuz I tell it how it is, and you tell it how it might be.

I guess I did not make myself clear the first time. STOP posting things if you are just going to spout off your bias opinions and not do any research first.

Example # 4 From Gunner: "Again, who has Cuse played that is an impressive win? Bunch of 3A teams, and a crappy region schedule."

--For the record, Syracuse has only played one 3A team on the season and that was in the first game of the season against Desert Hills.

This just shows that many people who post on here do NOT do the research before posting or just are ignorant before they post their comments. Either way, they are assuming things...and we all know what happens when we assume, right?

exactly my point Gunner,
they WERE nationally ranked....in the beginning of the season so what does that tell u? they were respected nationally because of what they had done in the PAST! this year their a different team and you can tell with their 7-3 record. sure Valor is still a good team but your underestimating how good utah high school football is compared to colorado.(which i think is ALOT better)

RTURN598: When Bingham played Valor, they were a nationally ranked team! They had just come off something like a 24 game winning streak the week before. Their QB and RB both Del Rio and McCaffery's kids respectively, were absolute studs that make just about every top player in this state look like little league kids. And the reason I did the "woulda shoulda coulda" was because I don't consider a botched snap as an athletic play that makes Alta better than Bingham. They are who they are, a team with 2 losses. But like I said, they are playing probably the best ball in all 3 aspects of the game in the state right now. And UtahBruin, A down Cottonwood team that has 3-4 D1 kids on it that almost beat Jordan when they played. Their athletes were made to look silly in both games vs the Miners. Again, who has Cuse played that is an impressive win? Bunch of 3A teams, and a crappy region schedule. They will beat Alta, but next week they will get worked by Bingham. Write it down.

@UtahBruin
School pride is great but when it comes to playoffs you have to have an unbiased opinion.

I totally agree with you there, but there are many who post on these boards who are so close minded and bias it is sickening. They live in their own fantasy world that their team is the best in the world and nobody can change that opinion.

And finally, just for good measure,
@ Binghamalum
“will people quit comparing Bingham of Old to new Bingham teams! Stop comparing Bingham right now to the same team that was ranked #4 in the country. Please stop that.”
I think the reason people compare them, is because all of the Bingham fans I have spoken with only love to talk about how great that team was and then compare this year’s team to the # 4 ranked team. They are a measuring stick for BHS and will be for many years to come. Sorry that you do not like it, but you’ll have to deal with it. Life isn’t fair…as we saw with the UHSAA ruling for East and against Timpview.

Ok, people...listen up...please stop posting things on here unless you have done your research and know what you are talking about.

Example # 1 From Jarka-rus: Fremont will be a speed bump this year, sorry your team is a one hit wonder.
--(One hit wonder?)(You say one hit wonder, because Fremont beat you last year?) They have beaten you other times as well, and have made it to the state finals the past two years, so I guess you could say they are a two hit wonder if you wanted to)

Example # 2 From plyxply: (In regards to Syracuse) they've beaten some awesome 3A teams like Box Elder and Desert Hills
--Please note that Box Elder is a 4A school and not a 3A school as you wrote.

Example # 3 From SportsLover24: Sorry Fremont, but I think you'll get smashed by Jordan...
--FYI, Fremont doesn’t play Jordan this week, NEWSFLASH: They play Bingham! The only way they would play Jordan is if they make it back to the State Championship again this year, which is not likely.

Please know what you're talking about it you are going to post on here!

@binghamalum

No I have not lived in Utah County my whole life, I am one of the many California transplants to Utah over the years. Thus, my unbiased opinions for any school in Utah unlike yourself with Bingham. Bingham is a good team, but they're not the best in the state, not even second best. They win this week, with the easier road out 5A teams to play a down C-Wood team and then Fremont. I pick 'Cuse to beat Alta, and Bingham will not beat either 'Cuse or Alta, whoever wins that game. I realize you are an Alum, but be partial, you are not a player anymore, if you were then. School pride is great but when it comes to playoffs you have to have an unbiased opinion. In 5A Jordan is the team to beat, after that it is 'Cuse, after that, I think it is Alta and after that it is a toss up between Bingham and N-Ridge and after that who cares.

Oh and by the way, yes I have seen Bingham play - Live. And yes I have seen 'Cuse play - Live. It is about being a fan, not an alum.

Lol...my cell won't let me look a previous post.....

Make no mistake Truesilverwolf
Bingham has the #1 defense in the state. Fremont will be a speed bump this year, sorry your team is a one hit wonder. We hear every year Fremont fans hate for Bingham. But you sure know how to spew smack as well. We heard all about how Davis was going to beat Bingham in the championship and that didn't happen. Syracuse may or may not be great. But you are really fooling yourself if you think the teams they have played save maybe North Ridge are like Bingham or Alta. Alta isn't a dominant team this year and may lose . They beat Alta last year yes, but did they make it to the championship? No. Why the difference this year?

Sounds like you're trying to defend someone "Irrelevant", if that is your real name.

@mykaljordan

I think Louis65 was making a Joke. Good stuff

@mykaljordan

Lous65 was being sarcastic..... go back and read every preseason review about PV since the beginning of mankind, they are picked to take state every year... It was a joke. my goodness

on the other hand god bless to all.

@louis65,

Where were they this year? Prove yourselves first, then warn everyone to watch out...!

JD Fan..

@amanap

I find it funny how you believe "Region9Tiger" is "conceding the game to JD already." There's a difference in a lack of faith and being humble. Region9Tiger is obviously a Hurricane supporter and believes they can win it. He also shows humility, something I believe a lot of PV and others lack.

I also find it funny how every year Pine view comes in hyped to take state and be the best in the country then fails to win crucial games. We can always blame others for our defeats, but I mean can't we ever praise the opposition for there performance.

That being said, the Hurricane JD game is going to be a great game. I can't wait to see how we stack up again against JD. Hopefully this time we can take one from them on their own field.

Does anyone know how JD will be affected in the six classification scenario?

I would watchout for PV next year. I hear they have 13 returning starters, and of those 13, 25 have D-1 scholarships. Yikes.

Gunner,
Valor Christian is a "nationally ranked team" ??? yea they sure are....ranked #609(#9 in colorado) in the nation! thats WEAK. Bingham even though their ranked #211 is still WAY higher than Valor Christian. so really beating them isnt that much of a statement. Listen, i do think Bingham could suprise everyone in 5a but dont play the woulda coulda shoulda card on the games u guys lost. EVERY team with a loss or 2 can play that same card too but its just better to focus on the future rather than the past. im actually rooting for the miners to take the state title so i hope the players and coaches dont have the same mind set as you.(no offense)

PV. is like West, all that talent and no leadership ..

I have really smart sheep but they are not smart enough to coach at Cedar. They have good coaches.

Gunner, you must've forgotten that Alta went into the Syracuse game last year 9-1 and ranked #2, it wasn't a down year, you were thinking of their 2010 team which wasn't very good. Syracuse is the favorite this year, they've beaten some awesome 3A teams like Box Elder and Desert Hills, along with Northridge, Davis, Fremont, and Layton. I would think Syracuse should schedule their buses for the trip to RES next week to play Bingham, they're that good.

I love how region 1 people brag how they must be good because they have so many teams in the playoffs. Good job. its actually pretty sad that 2-7 teams get in. Good job beating Hunter, Granger and Kearns, Viemont yes the powerhouses of 5A football.

It also funny that Region 1 talks about that 1 good team that beats someone good each year, well done. I also love how region 1 is like the "defense" region, when in reality its mostly that their offenses aren't great.

I pick all Region 1 out this week with the exception of maybe Syracuse, maybe. We'll see how much Defense they really play up in region 1 this week.

I think that maybe my sheep could do better coaching at pv than their current system.

SportsLover24: Just so you know, Alta was nowhere near supposed to win it all last year when Syracuse beat them in the first round. Alta had a very down year last year. Bingham right now is probably playing some of the best ball in the state, perhaps with the exception of Jordan. Their defense is scary good! Their Will LB just committed to a full ride to Hawaii last week. Not to mention Star's little brother on the D line. And now that they have finally stopped the shuffling of QB's in and out, and have gone with the Bowles kid, their offense is tearing it up. VS. Cottonwood last week, they scored 3 TD's in 5 offensive plays. And their defense made the Colts QB that is going to Alabama look like a 9th grader. A botched hold on an extra point vs. Alta, and a couple of very questionable coaching calls vs. Lone Peak, and this team is undefeated up to this point. Not to mention the beating of Valor Christian who is a very tough nationally ranked team. I do think Syracuse beats Alta this week though.

binghamalum,
I don't understand what it is with Bingham High School football fans, but for some reason you really like to disrespect Region 1 teams. Last year it was jar-ka-rus and now it's you. It's just like last year when you were going on and on about how Bingham was gonna roll over Fremont and make it to the state championship against Lone Peak. Unfortunately, you don't realize how strong Syracuse's defense is. Syracuse has consistently shut down every team they've faced and they still have a decent strength of schedule (i.e. every school except for Weber and Layton made it to the playoffs). Syracuse, if they beat Alta, will make it to the State Championship.

Prince certainly adds the senior leadership and is a proven winner (3X State Wrestling Champion) but Elison is quick and a very accurate passer. In the OT loss to DH he hit his receivers in the hands on both third and fourth downs. If either catch is made we go into a third OT. Prince is able to play still and actually adds a strong wing to the Offense. This will really keep JD honest on their pursuit as the threat of Prince coming back on the counter is a big concern now.
I see this game being a very low scoring affair coming down to a field goal or TD on the last drive. Unfortunately, this has gone to JD the last three matchups so hopefully we are due.
Go Tigers!

Game of the Week: Juan Diego v. Hurricane.

No doubt in my mind.

Both teams have much history and are both aching to battle each other once more i'm sure. Hurricane will be back to try and get revenge while the Soaring Eagle try to remain perfect against Hurricane.

This will be a close game but I have the Soaring Eagle edging Hurricane the final score being 14-0. Juan Diego has a very dominant Defense that no one seems to give them credit for. Very stout at every position. Wouldn't expect another shut out from the Juan Diego Defense considering Hurricane QB Z. Prince is sidelined.

That is just my prediction. Can't wait to see another great game from this rivalry. This game could go either way.

Just because Skyline perfected "the art of attraction" before JD doesn't make them any better than them...

@eagle

So your 16 state titles mean what to me again? when will you get 17? I would love to come and watch a game at Skylines Eagles nest, if there was anymore games..

JD FAN..

@eagle,

these post are for teams?fans still in the Playoffs. you can have the nickname back when you win another title..JD will get there. their still a new school, butthy will get there..you can come to the JD Eagles Nest this friday and watch the 2 3A teams that were able to beat Skyline go at it..tailgate starts at 2.

JDs Nest maker...

I'm just curious with you being so versed in high school football. How many Region One games have you watched this year? You seem to be so high on Bingham and some other SL County schools yet you seem to be surprised year after year by the performance of the Region One Teams. You don't need to remind me that the last Region One state win was Davis in 04 and that made 4 state titles for Region one in the last 12 years (not a bad stat for 5A). But none the less the teams in the North are very competitive and pretty strong top to bottom(well except for Weber) Four of the Region One teams are in the quarter finals. Region 4 has American Fork, Lehi and Pleasant Grove (not the strongest Region in the state for sure). Let's just sit back and watch the fireworks. Surprises always happen this stage in the playoffs. Only one prediction for me at this time. Bingham will not have a state championship this year.

Ok, binghamalum do you not see that syracuse has the almost the exact same thing. In the last 4 games syracuse is 152-29 and if you just add one more game to make it the last five. it is 183-29 I don't know about you but if Syracuse allows the same amount of points as bingham does and they even did it in 5 games. Doesn't that mean that syracuse's D is better.

I know that is not the case but because of different teams and what not. And don't get me wrong Bingham is good but they are not the obvious best. The only reason Syracuse would loose is because your guys are bigger. I think syracuse has more skill but they are just to small.

I know you are so proud of your bingham team, but there is better teams out there and syracuse can and might be one of them.

And utahfootballfun you bring up a good point, Syracuse is not respected enough. I really hope one of the region 1 football teams wins state(I hope its syracuse) Maybe then some people will realize we can play football too.

@region9tiger

Sounds like your conceding the game to JD already to me. P.S. 7 guys in the box is normal example- 4 linemen 3 linebackers = 7. or 3 linemen 4 linebackers = 7. or even 5 linemen 2 linebackers = 7.

Skyline is the home of the Eagles' Nest. When Juan Diego wins 16 state titles they can have that nickname for their stadium...

As someone who's watched Salt Lake high school football all his life, i'm thoroughly surprised EVERY SINGLE YEAR by all the Salt Lake fans who put down and underestimate most teams from region one. They play the game it's supposed to be played and I love watching them play. The get a team to the finals every year, some "scrub" team upsets a powerhouse Salt Lake team, and they still get no respect. It's annoying and I don't get it at all. Syracuse barely made the playoffs last year and weren't that good and upset Alta in the first round when they were supposed to win it all. They have an absolutely incredible and well-rounded team and they still have no respect. Northridge also plays smash mouth, tough, smart football. Davis is always explosive and can't be underestimated. Sorry Fremont, but I think you'll get smashed by Jordan... But anyway, I could see any other of the matchups going either way. I think they'll be great games. Be more open minded and respectful to the northern teams, people.

Just my two cents...

Can't wait for another JD/HHS match up. Sucks that it has to happen so early in the playoffs. Although our defense isn't as stout as it has been the last few years, look for another classic! Not having Prince under center is gonna hurt us on offense. I'm afraid this will make us one dimensional allowing JD to just put 7-8 guys in the box to stop the Tiger rushing attack. I'm actually looking forward to the tail-gate with MykalJordan, than the actual game.

@utahbruin, IF Orem gets by Highland, they will get buried by MC. Orem should have lost to Sky View last week and MC is a much better team. MC doesn't get challenged until the Championship game.

Binghamalum forgets that Jordan's toughest challenge last year before Lone Peak was Northridge and Northridge has everyone back. They have arguably the best running back in the state along with a very underrated QB and defense. Expect them to give Jordan a serious challenge.

He should also note that most of the points against Syracuse have been against their 2nd and 3rd strings. Their starters never play the fourth quarter and rarely all of the third. The same story was said against Syracuse last year when they knocked off Alta.

It is also hilarious that he says Syracuse has a weak schedule considering the fact that they have four of the eight quarterfinals teams in 5A and they won that region undefeated.

Syracuse has much more speed on defense than they had last year when they lost in OT in the Semi-finals. Fortunately, they actually have an offense this year that can put up points for once with five legitimate receivers with speed and a very accurate dual threat QB.

All that being said, I think Jordan is in a class of their own with Alta, Syracuse, Northridge and Bingham as contenders for runner up.

The way I see it, it's pretty up in the air in 4A. And 5A is pretty set. Bingham, Lone Peak, and Jordan are all going to roll this week, Alta and Syracuse will be the game of the week, and will go to the wire, Ultimately though, I think home field takes it. In 4A, the only sure thing that I see is East beating Box Elder, Box Elder isn't that good, East will tear them apart. I realize that Timpview is an obvious favorite over WX, but I think WX is underestimated, and their home advantage will be big, I think they win. Bountiful and Mt. Crest will be interesting, both teams have the potential to blow the other one, up, and it's going to be a momentum game, whoever grabs the momentum will win. As for Orem and Highland, I'm saying 4A game of the week. Orem's Offense is good, but their D isn't too great, Highland is the other way around, but I think Highland takes it.

What I see:
5A:
Syracuse - Bingham
Lone Peak - Jordan

4A:
Highland - Mt. Crest
East - Woods Cross

@utahbruin

You've lived in utah county all your life right?

Have you been to one single Bingham game thisyear???? Have you even seen Syracuse yet living down in Saratoga Spring?

HAVE you not seen Bingham has beat there last 4 opponents 183-27
( not great competition)
done since a blown game to Lone Peak

BINGHAM is HEALTHY if you dont wanna hear it from me, Go read what Coach Peck said him self about this same team your thinking is overrated!

will people quit comparing Bingham of Old to new Bingham teams! Stop comparing Bingham right now to the same team that was ranked #4 in the country. Please stop that.

Why do people think Davis who had to win a playin game will go down to Lone peak and Win??

They beat a bad kearns and people think that region 1 will have 3 teams at Rice eccles next week!

REGION 1 WILL BE ELIMINATED!
Bingham kills fremont
Alta beats syracuse a very goood game
Jordan whoops Northridge
Lone Peak squeak one out at home.

Leaving 0 teams from Region 1!
Remember people 2003 the last region 1 football title.
making it 9 years in a row

Does anybody else think it might be time for a change in coaching at Pine View? So many good teams and talent squandered away the past few years...

I would be curious to what a Desert Hills Fan, Coach, or player thinks about the Dixie/Stansbury game? Both teams played Desert Hills, and played them in close games. I feel Dixie has a chance to knock off Stansbury if they can protect the QB, and catch the ball as they did against North Sanpete. I don't know if their defense can stop Stansbury's run game, but I think Dixie has the tools win a high scoring game. Anyway, that's my two cents.

@ goaggies1
Alta only returned 3 starters this year, and only 1 of those was from a line position. Barker and Handley were the other two. So while you're correct in being impressed by Syracuse doing something similar, Alta has that impressive fact going for them, too.

Northridge is the only team with a good offense to play Syracuse, so far. When they played, Northridge was the second highest scoring team in 5A. But Northridge earned those points against easy defenses, so it wasn't too shocking when Syracuse shut them down. Alta will be their first real defensive test this year, and their DBs better be on their game or Alta's WRs will tear them apart!

@cubs4Life - You make my point exactly, it shouldn't be determined prior to season. Rank and Seed them. I know it is uneven with schools and playoff spots, but do not give the 5 Seed out of a reg. a playoff spot until the season is done. Also, don't pair up regions. Seed the teams.

As for state.

5A - Bingham wins this week and then they are done. Not the Bingham of old, they are over rated just like Lone Peak. Davis beats Lone Peak. 'Cuse beats Alta, 'Cuse beats Bingham. Jordan beats Davis and 'Cuse.

4A - Orem beats Highland, and I think Mtn Crest beats Bountiful, which sets up a great passing game with Orem and Mtn Crest that I think Orem gets at RES. Timpview gets Woods Cross, East rolls up BE. East proved to be easy to pass on with Logan throwing for 437 yards and Herriman throwing for 302. Timpview rolls big and beats Orem again for the title.

3A - I think Region 9 is to tough, Spanish won't beat D. Hills, and I think Hurricane gets past JD and Stansbury and wins it all, like they have been there before.

Super excited for the games this week! Should be some good ones!!! I stand with mykalijordan in the belief that the winner of Juan Diego and Hurricane will be the eventual state champion in 3A. Unfortunately, this is only a quarterfinal game. This postseason has already had too many semi and championship match-ups too early, but you got to beat the best eventually whether in the beginning or the end! Good luck to all and Go Tigers!!!!

@binghamalum,
just watch on Saturday...

I think that Northridge is going to surprise Jordan and it will at least be close, although I think Jordan is better. Davis will beat Lone Peak and Syracuse will beat Alta. Bingham is going to slaughter Fremont.

Semi-finals
Syracuse-Bingham
Jordan-Davis

To all the Non Believers!

Binghams the #2 defense in 5A!

Behind Syracuse only, and Binghams schedule is wayyyyyyyy tougher,
Alta-17 loss
Lone Peak-21 loss
Valor Christian 20- win
Cwood twice 13, 14-both wins

I wanna see what a good offense can do against Syracuse really bad.

utahbruin,

WE know the playoff system is bad, but when you have 4 regions in 5A, and 5 region is 4A you need a simple method to do the playoffs in Utah.

Thats why we see 2-7 teams make the playoffs, we dont know befor the season who wil be good and the playoffs are put together before the year even begins!

remember 3 years in a row, Bingham vs Alta in the Semi's??? then either team went on and easily won the state title.

Now to your potentional final and semi final games
The only one I can agree with is Juan Diego Hurricane

Because Jordan will destroy Northridge,
Alta and Syracuse both will lose to Bingham!

Jordan loves how no one talks about them all year.

Do we forget they are the best team this year, Talent all around, There line is all going somewhere next year.

This is Jordans year to Lose in my opinion. (If you dont stop the run which no one has done yet) they possibly could lose, but they make throws easy for Kafentzis,

4A I think Timpview Wins state, even after all the controversy.
3A is Juan Diego of course.

I love all the talk about Syracuse Defense!

They have not played one Dynamic Offense yet this entire year people!

Northridge is about to lose to Jordan by 30 points! Thats been there toughest Game all year

They have allowed 14 points all year as there highest allowed to a game,
Box Elder, Northridge, and Davis! all 3 lose this week.

So Im still very hesitant on how good this Defense is! I liked what I saw last friday on KJZZ but I mean seriously I already mentioned Binghams 8th graders could of beat that Viewmont Team.

But respect is given to this Syracuse team! but I mean seriously here is Salt Lake Valley football, and Alta this could be there last year of really good football, because guesss what people.....

The new Draper high school opens, and they already have kids saying there not going to ALTA anymore, Brand New high school, WAYYYY nicer then Alta, so there sports will take a HUGE drop the next few years!

Alta has alot on the line in this game!

Either way both Syracuse or Alta LOSE TO BINGHAM next week!

This is the problem with not seeding the teams for the playoffs, to many potential Semi Final or Final games to early.

Alta vs. Syracuse

Northridge vs. Jordan

Hurricane vs. Juan Diego

Not to mention, Timpview vs. Logan which turned into a blowout, or East vs. Herriman, which for the second game in three tries East DB's were exposed with another 300 yard pass game.

I will pick Syracuse as well. I have watched both teams this year and just feel Syracuse is better rounded with offense and defense. I saw Alta play agaisnt the boys from Jersey and there are some areas that can be exposed. I know Syracuse has a few areas that need to be worked on. I have watched Alta running game against Riverton on friday. Please keep your same running game you will be fine agaisnt this defense. You have two great receivers in Ammon Barker and Harrison. Im more scored of Barker. He is a stud. Handley is just as scary. Syracuse plays well together as a team Not one player thinks he is better than the next. I also saw the size of Alta's line. They are college size boys, they are big. Syracuse's line defensive and offensive can handle their own. Syracuse has no returning sarters at all on either line. I know people talk about their schedule and how week it was, but no returning starters. Are you kidding me, they should have gotten beaten by someone if they are week. It starts up front. Syracuse is well rounded in all aspects. Go Cuse.

I love all the talk about Syracuse Defense!

They have not played one Dynamic Offense yet this entire year people!

Northridge is about to lose to Jordan by 30 points! Thats been there toughest Game all year

They have allowed 14 points all year as there highest allowed to a game,
those 3 teams, Box Elder, Northridge, and Davis!
All 3 of these teams are going to Lose this week!

So Im still very hesitant on how good this Defense is! I liked what I saw last friday on KJZZ but I mean seriously I already mentioned Binghams 8th graders could of beat that Viewmont Team.

But respect is given to this Syracuse team! but I mean seriously here is Salt Lake Valley football, and Alta this could be there last year of really good football, because guesss what people.....

The new Draper high school opens, and they already have kids saying there not going to ALTA anymore, Brand New high school, WAYYYY nicer then Alta, so there sports will take a HUGE drop the next few years!

Alta has alot on the line in this game!

Either way both Syracuse or Alta LOSE TO BINGHAM next week!

I pick Syracuse over Alta, not just because i go to Syracuse, but because defense wins championships. And Alta will be a challenge but i think people are underestimating how good Syracuse's D really is.

Alta is out for revenge against Syracuse for the first round upset last year, which is an edge that Syracuse counters with their home field advantage. Both have a lot to prove and everything to lose. I expect a close game, with one team pulling ahead in the fourth quarter. Final score, Alta 21 Syracuse 17.

Go Hawks!

Offense and Defense
Alta:
Offense - Widely accepted as the best passing game in the state, with Chipper Lucero leading 5A in passing yards. His targets include Ammon Barker, who leads 5A in reception yards, Harrison Handley, a Utah commit, and Mack Richards and Logan Harrison. Alta’s weakness is their running game, although that has improved in recent games.
Defense – After struggling early in the season, Alta’s first-string defense hasn’t given up a touchdown in the last 4 games, with the exception of a kickoff return TD by Copper Hills.
Syracuse:
Offense – Boasts a strong and balanced pass/run offense. They’re able to run the ball, or rely on QB Anderson’s ability to find one of a number of quality receivers. Anderson is probably the 5th best QB in the state this year, behind Kafentzis, Lloyd, Falk and Lucero.
Defense – Syracuse has the best defense in the state. Period. With 4 shutouts on the year, and only 70 points allowed total, they could be winning games even if their offense was half as good as they are.
Offensive edge to Alta. Defensive edge to Syracuse.

Go Hawks!

Alta @ Syracuse will be the game of the week, for sure! I’ve been saying all year that Syracuse is the team to upset Jordan, IF they can get past Alta. Both deserve their high ranking, that’s for sure.

Strength of Schedule
Alta 9-2: Timpview, Bingham, Olympus, Riverton, Jordan, Brighton, Don Bosco NJ, Copper Hills, West Jordan, Cottonwood, Riverton. Tough schedule, maybe toughest in the state. Losses coming to #1 Jordan and National Powerhouse Don Bosco.
Syracuse 10-0: Desert Hills, Skyline, Riverton, Box Elder, Davis, Layton, Northridge, Freemont, Weber, Viewmont. Played 3 decent teams and 1 good team (N-Ridge), and went undefeated.

Go Hawks!

That puts QB Lloyd at 42 TD's and 5 Int's to lead the State in passing.

WR Raymond at 17 TD catches to also lead the State....

Combined with a great OLine, a nasty defense, and many other playmakers on Offense....

I know people look at East...but Timpview is the team to beat.

Especially with their experienced coaching staff that has won 6 or so state championships already.

Should get interesting from here on in....

@Tigerpride and lonzo

I hope you two can make it to the tailgate.I dont think southpride56 has followed the rivalry of JD and Hurricane that much.Its going to be a very close and good game (base on past games play against each other) the team that controls the clock an has the least mistakes WINS.IMO the team that wins this game takes state..good luck to both the Eagles of JD and the Tigers of Hurricane.

JD FAN

@Southpride...Nobody dominates JD and nobody dominates Hurricane. Both teams are so good, every year, that it just doesn't happen. One team may lose by a touchdown or so occasionally, but neither team has been dominated in a long time. The last time Hurricane was dominated, it was by Riley Nelson's Logan team in the playoffs and, even then, Hurricane gave Logan the toughest test in the tournament.

@southpride- This is the first game I've been really nervous about all year. As much as I would love to see hurricane beat jd, they are the one team that I am sure hurricane will never dominate. I can only hope that hurricane gets far enough ahead to withstand jd's notorious game ending drive.

Go tigers! Good luck!!!

To all our Tiger Fans, that well be making the trip up to the Eagles Nest friday, you are welcome to join us JD parents on the southeast side for a tailgate . come and lets enjoy each others company and great food. we start at 2pm and hope u come out. Nothing better then making new friends and watching HS football .see you there.

@Southpride56

Hurricane has never dominated JD ever. hope u make the tailgate party,and don't have an excuse not to make the trip. but then again,if you're really a Tiger fan to the Fullest , you'll come.

JD Fan to the Heart..

5A
Bingham, Syracuse Jordan Lone Peak

4A
Orem, Mt Crest Timpview East

3A
Juan Diego Desert Hills Stansbury Spanish Fork

Hurricane will dominate JD

Hurricane fan to the fullest!!

Yep
Hurricane and JD should be a great one

Syracuse and Alta will be a great matchup too

Looks like 2A North was a little overrated!!! Go San Juan!!! Congratulations to Grand for knocking off Millard.

Hurricane at Juan Diego " Game of The WEEK "