A Clash of Titans: Crimson Cliffs vs. Spanish Fork Football Showdown

As the Utah high school football season heats up, the Crimson Cliffs Mustangs and the Spanish Fork Dons have emerged as two of the top teams in the state, both boasting impressive records and dynamic rosters. With similar win percentages and high-powered offenses, these two teams are poised for a thrilling showdown. Let’s take a deep dive into their rankings, team comparisons, and player performances ahead of their potential clash.

Team Overview: Dominance on the Field

Both Crimson Cliffs and Spanish Fork have been dominant forces in the 2024-2025 season, each finishing with an 11-2 overall record. Both teams have shown remarkable consistency, especially in league play, where each has a perfect or near-perfect record.

Crimson Cliffs Mustangs

• Region Record: 6-0
• Overall Record: 11-2
• Home Record: 6-1
• Away Record: 5-1
• Win %: .846
• Region Win %: 1.000
• Points Scored (PF): 410
• Points Allowed (PA): 278

Spanish Fork Dons

• Region Record: 5-1
• Overall Record: 11-2
• Home Record: 6-1
• Away Record: 5-1
• Win %: .846
• Region Win %: .833
• Points Scored (PF): 539
• Points Allowed (PA): 312

Both teams are known for their offensive prowess and defensive resilience, with Crimson Cliffs outscoring opponents by an average of 31.5 points per game, and Spanish Fork averaging 41.5 points per game.

Scoring Averages: The Battle of Offenses

Crimson Cliffs has an efficient, balanced scoring attack, averaging 31.5 points per game with a strong first and fourth quarter presence. Their offense is known for being consistent, although they tend to struggle a bit in the second quarter, scoring only 4.7 points on average in that period.

Crimson Cliffs Scoring Breakdown:

• Q1: 11.2
• Q2: 4.7
• Q3: 8.7
• Q4: 9.1
• Total: 31.5

On the other hand, Spanish Fork showcases a potent offensive explosion in the second quarter, averaging an impressive 16.3 points. They maintain a steady performance in the first quarter and finish strong in the fourth.

Spanish Fork Scoring Breakdown:

• Q1: 10.8
• Q2: 16.3
• Q3: 7.0
• Q4: 8.6
• Total: 41.5

Statistical Showdown: Key Team Comparisons

When comparing team stats, both squads show impressive performances across multiple areas of the game. Spanish Fork leads in total yards per game, with 481.5 yards, compared to Crimson Cliffs’ 400.0. Spanish Fork also boasts a superior rushing attack, averaging 248.4 yards per game compared to Crimson Cliffs’ 214.6.

However, Crimson Cliffs excels in tackles per game, with 68.8 compared to Spanish Fork’s 49.5, which could give the Mustangs an edge in the defensive battle. Both teams are solid in the passing game, with Crimson Cliffs averaging 185.4 passing yards per game and Spanish Fork slightly ahead at 233.2 yards.

Key Team Statistics:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: Crimson Cliffs 214.6, Spanish Fork 248.4
• Passing Yards Per Game: Crimson Cliffs 185.4, Spanish Fork 233.2
• Total Yards Per Game: Crimson Cliffs 400.0, Spanish Fork 481.5
• Tackles Per Game: Crimson Cliffs 68.8, Spanish Fork 49.5
• Points Per Game: Crimson Cliffs 30.0, Spanish Fork 40.1

Individual Stars: Playmakers to Watch

Both teams feature standout players who could make all the difference in the upcoming matchups.

For Crimson Cliffs, senior running back McCord Christiansen leads the team with 161.2 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Ryder Sherratt adds 185.4 passing yards per game. Malakai Alofipo, a wide receiver, has been a key target with 93.7 receiving yards per game. McKay Wright, the defensive star, leads the team with 13.1 tackles per game.

For Spanish Fork, junior running back Kaden Vest has been a workhorse, averaging 186.8 rushing yards per game. Quarterback McKay Smith has been a major force in the air, with 225.3 passing yards per game. Brock Jacobson, a wide receiver, has posted 95.4 receiving yards per game, while Noah Kemper has contributed 0.3 sacks per game.

Key Individual Performers:

• Crimson Cliffs:
  • McCord Christiansen (Rushing Yards) – 161.2
  • Ryder Sherratt (Passing Yards) – 185.4
  • Malakai Alofipo (Receiving Yards) – 93.7
  • McKay Wright (Tackles) – 13.1
• Spanish Fork:
  • Kaden Vest (Rushing Yards) – 186.8
  • McKay Smith (Passing Yards) – 225.3
  • Brock Jacobson (Receiving Yards) – 95.4
  • Noah Kemper (Sacks) – 0.3

Common Opponents: Similar Success

Both teams share a common opponent in Sky View, and each handled them with relative ease. Crimson Cliffs defeated Sky View 38-29 at home, while Spanish Fork came out on top 47-28 at home. Their ability to dispatch a formidable opponent demonstrates their preparedness for any challenge.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

With both teams enjoying stellar seasons, the path to a possible playoff meeting looks increasingly likely. Crimson Cliffs has shown a tenacious defense and a balanced offense, while Spanish Fork’s high-scoring attack and explosive plays make them a formidable contender. As the season progresses, these two teams will likely continue to dominate, setting up an exciting matchup that could determine the region’s champion and potentially the state’s best.

With both squads so evenly matched across multiple statistical categories, the showdown between Crimson Cliffs and Spanish Fork will be one for the ages. Fans can expect a high-energy, hard-hitting game, with both teams giving it their all to secure the win.