The Arizona College Prep (Chandler, AZ) varsity football team will face Mica Mountain (Tucson, AZ) in a home playoff game today at 4 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships, Conference 4A, as both teams compete for a spot in the next round of the tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arizona State Football Championship
Who: Mica Mountain vs Arizona College Prep
When: Today, December 06, 2024
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Conference 4A
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Mica Mountain vs. Arizona College Prep

The showdown between Mica Mountain and Arizona College Prep promises to be one of the most anticipated games in Arizona high school football this season. With both teams coming in with impressive records and standout statistics, the stage is set for a thrilling matchup. Let’s break down the key team statistics, individual leaders, and record performances to see how these two teams stack up against each other.

Team Statistics Comparison

Rushing Yards:
Arizona College Prep has the edge in rushing yards, averaging 181.1 yards per game compared to Mica Mountain’s 149.4. Arizona College Prep’s rushing game has been a dominant force, with a greater ability to control the ball and move down the field. Mica Mountain will need to find a way to slow down this powerful rushing attack to stay competitive.

Passing Yards:
Mica Mountain averages 136.3 passing yards per game, while Arizona College Prep is much more prolific in the air, averaging 214.5 passing yards per game. Arizona College Prep’s stronger passing game could be a key factor in exploiting Mica Mountain’s defense, as they are more adept at moving the ball through the air.

Receiving Yards:
The receiving yards reflect a similar trend, with Arizona College Prep leading at 215.0 yards per game compared to Mica Mountain’s 136.6. This disparity suggests that Arizona College Prep’s offensive game plan is more balanced and diversified, utilizing both the run and the pass effectively to keep defenses on their toes.

Total Yards:
Arizona College Prep again has a clear advantage in total yards per game, with 395.6 compared to Mica Mountain’s 285.7. This shows that Arizona College Prep is able to generate more yardage both on the ground and through the air, giving them a more dynamic offensive presence.

Team Leaders

Mica Mountain:

• Josiah Thornwell leads the rushing attack with 67.8 yards per game.
• Jayden Thoreson is the top passer with 119.8 yards per game and also leads in total yards with 122.5.
• Jimmy Leon is the primary receiving threat with 30.7 yards per game and has contributed 8.0 points per game.

Arizona College Prep:

• Max Sasso leads the rushing game for Arizona College Prep with 59.5 yards per game.
• Evan Heinrich is the standout passer, averaging 178.3 yards per game, and leads the team in total yards with 185.6 per game.
• Ashton Sanchez leads in receiving with 59.7 yards per game, and Max Sasso also contributes significantly to the team’s point production with 5.5 points per game.

Record Breakdown

Mica Mountain (13-0):
Mica Mountain has remained undefeated, with a perfect 13-0 record. They have dominated in both league and non-league games, finishing 5-0 in their region and 7-0 at home. Their ability to control the game, especially with a strong defense, has been a key factor in their perfect season.

Arizona College Prep (12-1):
Arizona College Prep has been nearly as dominant with a 12-1 record, and like Mica Mountain, they have been perfect in their region, finishing 5-0. Their only loss came in an out-of-state game, but their overall balance on offense and defense has propelled them to success. Arizona College Prep has a perfect 7-0 home record, showcasing their ability to dominate in familiar territory.

Common Opponents:
Both teams faced common opponents in Mesquite and Yuma Catholic, and both teams came out victorious. Mica Mountain defeated Mesquite 42-0 and Yuma Catholic 24-14, while Arizona College Prep beat Mesquite 64-22 and Yuma Catholic 43-29. While both teams won, Arizona College Prep’s victories were more dominant, which might indicate a more explosive offensive approach.

Conclusion

Both Mica Mountain and Arizona College Prep have been outstanding this season, with dominant records and impressive statistics. Arizona College Prep’s powerful offense and strong tackle numbers give them an edge in total yards and scoring, while Mica Mountain’s stout defense and ability to generate sacks could provide a significant challenge for Arizona College Prep’s high-powered attack. This game will be a battle of contrasting styles, with Arizona College Prep looking to outscore Mica Mountain’s more controlled and defensive-minded game. Whichever team can impose its will on the other will have the upper hand in this highly anticipated matchup.