The Thunderbird (Phoenix, AZ) varsity football team will host Bradshaw Mountain (Prescott Valley, AZ) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. This exciting matchup is part of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships in the 4A Conference, with both teams aiming to advance in the tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arizona High School Football
Who: Bradshaw Mountain vs Thunderbird
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Conference 4A
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Bradshaw Mountain vs. Thunderbird

On Friday, November 15, the Thunderbird (Phoenix, AZ) varsity football team will host Bradshaw Mountain (Prescott Valley, AZ) in an exciting home playoff game at 7 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships in the 4A Conference. With both teams showcasing strong seasons, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as they vie for a spot in the next round of the tournament.

Team Overview

Thunderbird enters this game with a stellar 9-1 record, including a 4-1 mark in their section. Their dominant offense, which averages 37.0 points per game, and a defense that has allowed just 100 points all season, make them a tough team to beat. The Falcons have been consistent in all phases of the game, from early scoring in the first quarter to strong finishes in the final period. Their impressive overall record and high-scoring offense give them a clear edge going into this game.

Bradshaw Mountain, with a 7-3 record, has also enjoyed a strong season. They have an impressive 4-1 section record, highlighting their competitiveness within their league. Their offense, which averages 29.0 points per game, has been effective, particularly in the second half of games, with 9.4 points per game in the fourth quarter. However, their defense has allowed 246 points, which could be a challenge against Thunderbird’s potent attack.

Scoring Breakdown

Thunderbird has been more consistent across all four quarters, with a balanced attack that puts up points early and continues to score throughout the game. Bradshaw Mountain will need to match Thunderbird’s intensity, particularly in the early and late stages of the game, to keep the pressure on their opponents.

Keys to the Game

For Bradshaw Mountain, staying competitive early and avoiding giving up big plays will be key. They’ll need to capitalize on any opportunities to slow down Thunderbird’s fast-paced offense and put points on the board in the second half.

For Thunderbird, maintaining their high-scoring pace and staying disciplined defensively will be critical. Their ability to control the game through both the air and on the ground, while limiting mistakes, will help them stay in control and secure a win.

Conclusion

This 4A playoff game between Bradshaw Mountain and Thunderbird is shaping up to be an exciting battle. With both teams capable of explosive plays and strong second-half performances, the game is expected to be a high-energy contest. Fans can expect a thrilling matchup as the two teams fight for a spot in the next round of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships.

Team Stat Comparison

Both teams come into this game with impressive rushing statistics. Bradshaw Mountain has averaged 254.8 rushing yards per game, led by standout running back Kylin Jackson, who averages 96.0 rushing yards per game. On the other hand, Thunderbird is nearly as potent on the ground, averaging 253.8 rushing yards per game. Elijah Little has been a star for Thunderbird, contributing 186.3 rushing yards per game, leading the team in both rushing and total yards.

When it comes to the passing game, Bradshaw Mountain has been more modest, averaging just 70.2 passing yards per game, with Michael Sanford leading the team with 70.2 passing yards per game. In contrast, Thunderbird has shown a more balanced offensive approach, averaging 139.3 passing yards per game, with quarterback Andrew Cohill contributing 139.0 passing yards per game.

In terms of total yards, Thunderbird holds the advantage, averaging 393.1 total yards per game, compared to Bradshaw Mountain’s 325.0 total yards per game. This advantage stems from their strong passing game and potent ground attack.

Defensively, Bradshaw Mountain averages 76.1 tackles per game, and Thunderbird averages 59.0 tackles per game. However, Thunderbird has been more effective at generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, with 2.9 sacks per game, compared to Bradshaw Mountain’s 1.2 sacks per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Bradshaw Mountain:
  • Kylin Jackson is the primary offensive weapon for the Bears. His ability to gain big chunks of yards on the ground will be crucial in controlling the clock and keeping Thunderbird’s high-powered offense off the field.
  • Michael Sanford has been effective in the passing game, but Bradshaw Mountain will need more from him if they hope to balance their attack and keep Thunderbird’s defense on its heels.
  • Kaleb Dekens, who leads the team with 12.9 tackles per game, will need to step up in the defensive backfield to help slow down Thunderbird’s dynamic offense.
• Thunderbird:
  • Elijah Little is a game-changer on the ground, and his ability to break off big runs will be key to Thunderbird’s success. He will need to maintain his strong play and find success running against Bradshaw Mountain’s defensive front.
  • Andrew Cohill has been effective at quarterback, and his ability to stretch the field with his arm will be critical in making the passing game a threat and creating opportunities for Little in the running game.
  • Ryan Kavalami has been a disruptive force defensively, and his 2.9 sacks per game lead the team. He will be essential in applying pressure on the Bradshaw Mountain offense.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Moon Valley, St. Mary’s, and Prescott. Bradshaw Mountain defeated Moon Valley (24-0) and St. Mary’s (21-20), but suffered a loss to Prescott (27-17). Thunderbird, on the other hand, defeated all three of these teams, including a dominant 34-0 win over Moon Valley and a 36-14 win over Prescott.

Record Breakdown

• Bradshaw Mountain enters the game with a 7-3 record, including a 4-1 league record. They have been strong in non-league play but will need to step up their passing attack to keep pace with Thunderbird’s high-scoring offense.
• Thunderbird is coming off a solid 9-1 season, with an undefeated record in non-league games (5-0) and a 4-1 record in league play. Their only loss came in league play, but they have shown strong balance on both sides of the ball and are primed for a playoff run.

Game Outlook

This matchup is expected to be a battle between Bradshaw Mountain’s powerful running game and defense and Thunderbird’s more balanced offensive attack. Bradshaw Mountain will need to control the ball with Jackson and keep the game close, while Thunderbird will look to create big plays through both the run and the pass.

Thunderbird’s ability to strike quickly through the air with Cohill and Little’s ability to break off long runs will be key in opening up the field. Meanwhile, Bradshaw Mountain will rely on their defense and Kylin Jackson’s ability to eat up yards on the ground, limiting Thunderbird’s offensive possessions.

With both teams coming off strong seasons, this game is sure to be a hard-fought contest. Whoever can impose their style of play—Bradshaw Mountain’s physical ground game or Thunderbird’s balanced offense—will have the upper hand. Expect a close, competitive game with a playoff atmosphere as both teams aim to make a statement heading into the postseason.