The Yuma Catholic (Yuma, AZ) varsity football team will host Mica Mountain (Tucson, AZ) in a home playoff game today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Conference 4A” tournament, where both teams will compete for a spot in the next round.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arizona State High School Football Playoff
Who: Yuma Catholic (AZ) vs Mica Mountain (AZ)
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Conference 4A
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Yuma Catholic vs. Mica Mountain

The 2024 football season has seen two teams rise to the top of their respective divisions—Mica Mountain and Yuma Catholic. Both teams boast undefeated records and have been impressive across multiple aspects of the game. As the postseason draws near, these two teams are primed for a deep playoff run, making for an exciting clash of styles and talent. This article takes a closer look at their offensive, defensive, and team stats, as well as the key players who have led them to success.

Offensive Comparison: Mica Mountain vs. Yuma Catholic

Mica Mountain:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 148.2
• Passing Yards Per Game: 135.3
• Receiving Yards Per Game: 135.7
• Total Yards Per Game: 283.5
• Points Per Game: 38.0

Mica Mountain has had a balanced offensive attack this season, with solid rushing and passing games. They average 148.2 yards per game on the ground, led by running back Josiah Thornwell (69.3 yards per game). Quarterback Jayden Thoreson has also been efficient, throwing for 135.3 yards per game. With 38.0 points per game, they are able to score consistently, thanks in part to their ability to move the ball both on the ground and in the air.

Yuma Catholic:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 101.8
• Passing Yards Per Game: 262.3
• Receiving Yards Per Game: 263.3
• Total Yards Per Game: 364.1
• Points Per Game: 34.0

Yuma Catholic’s offensive strength lies in their explosive passing game. Averaging 262.3 passing yards per game, they are led by quarterback Nash Ott, who has been a standout in the air, and wide receiver Sir Stokes, who leads the receiving corps with 111.8 yards per game. While their rushing attack averages just 101.8 yards per game, they make up for it with their high-powered passing offense, putting up 364.1 total yards per game and averaging 34.0 points per game.

Key Players: Mica Mountain vs. Yuma Catholic

Mica Mountain:

• Josiah Thornwell: With 69.3 rushing yards per game, Thornwell anchors the ground game for Mica Mountain, providing the team with a steady and reliable rushing attack.
• Jayden Thoreson: The quarterback has been pivotal in the passing game, throwing for 117.5 yards per game, and contributing to the overall 120.7 total yards per game.
• Jimmy Leon: A versatile player, Leon has been a standout on offense, contributing 31.1 receiving yards per game and 7.7 points per game, showcasing his playmaking ability.
• Broden Schmidt: Leading the defense with 7.6 tackles per game, Schmidt is a key figure in Mica Mountain’s ability to limit opponents’ scoring opportunities.
• Jimmy Leon: Also contributing defensively with 1.2 sacks per game, Leon plays a crucial role in both offensive and defensive schemes.

Yuma Catholic:

• Nash Ott: Yuma Catholic’s offensive leader, Ott has been exceptional in the air, throwing for 223.3 yards per game and accounting for much of the team’s offensive production.
• Sir Stokes: The top receiver for Yuma Catholic, Stokes has amassed 111.8 receiving yards per game and serves as a constant threat in the passing game.
• Rocky Stallworth: Defensively, Stallworth has been a key player, averaging 15.4 tackles per game, anchoring the defense with his leadership and ability to stop opposing plays.
• Hunter Hancock: Contributing 7.8 points per game, Hancock adds depth to the offense and provides another reliable weapon for Yuma Catholic.

Record Breakdown

Mica Mountain:

• Overall Record: 12-0
• League Record: 5-0
• Non-League Record: 5-0
• Home Record: 7-0
• Away Record: 5-0
• Playoff Record: 2-0
• In-State Record: 12-0

Mica Mountain has been flawless this season, entering the playoffs with a perfect 12-0 record. Their dominant performance both in league and non-league play has been a testament to their all-around team strength. They have remained undefeated at home and on the road, showcasing their ability to win in various settings.

Yuma Catholic:

• Overall Record: 11-1
• League Record: 5-0
• Non-League Record: 4-1
• Home Record: 8-0
• Away Record: 3-1
• Playoff Record: 2-0
• In-State Record: 10-1

Yuma Catholic has also had a successful season, with only one loss to their name. They have been especially dominant at home, boasting an 8-0 record, while their 4-1 non-league record further demonstrates their strong play against a variety of competition. Their only loss came earlier in the season, but they have since bounced back to secure their spot in the playoffs.

Common Opponents

Both Mica Mountain and Yuma Catholic have faced Walden Grove, Catalina Foothills, and Thunderbird. Both teams won these matchups, with Mica Mountain securing victories over Walden Grove (16-6), Catalina Foothills (47-6), and Thunderbird (38-14). Yuma Catholic also defeated Walden Grove (28-13), Catalina Foothills (54-13), and Thunderbird (45-14). This common success against similar opponents showcases both teams’ ability to dominate at home and on the road.

Conclusion

Mica Mountain and Yuma Catholic are both undefeated teams with high-scoring offenses and strong defenses, making for an exciting potential postseason matchup. Mica Mountain has a balanced offensive attack, with a solid rushing game and a consistent passing game, while Yuma Catholic’s strength lies in their explosive aerial assault, led by quarterback Nash Ott and receiver Sir Stokes.

While both teams have been dominant this season, Mica Mountain’s ability to score consistently and control the game on both sides of the ball gives them a slight edge. However, Yuma Catholic’s high-powered passing game could prove to be the difference in what promises to be an exciting and closely contested playoff matchup. Regardless of the outcome, both teams have proven they are capable of going deep in the playoffs and will be a force to be reckoned with.