Skyridge carries a six-game win streak and the No. 1 6A RPI ranking into a matchup against Lone Peak on Friday, Oct. 2. The Falcons are scheduled to play the game at 7 p.m. in Highland, with the Region 3 showdown being televised on KJZZ/KMYU.
The matchup pits two area programs heading in opposite directions. Skyridge (6-1, 2-0 Region 3) sits atop the region standings following a 37-27 victory over Corner Canyon on Sept. 25. Lone Peak (3-4, 0-2) has lost back-to-back region games to Corner Canyon and American Fork and requires a win to remain in the playoff conversation.
Skyridge's defense has been a primary factor in the Falcons' recent success. During the Sept. 25 win against Corner Canyon, the unit recorded five interceptions and forced three turnovers on downs. Senior linebacker Sa Tanuvasa recorded 15 tackles and two interceptions during that game. Additionally, junior linebacker Jackson Horsley returned a pick 31 yards for a touchdown, and junior defensive back Ethan Schriever returned another pick 83 yards for a score. Skyridge head coach Justin Hemm stated that winning the turnover battle provided his offense with significant field position.
The Falcons' offense has been powered by running backs Beckham Bennett and Ului Faletau. In the win against Corner Canyon, Bennett recorded 13 carries for 109 yards and two touchdowns, while Faletau had 19 carries for 87 yards and one touchdown. Earlier in the season, on Sept. 17, junior quarterback Jagger Fountaine threw for 342 yards and three touchdowns in a 28-20 region victory over Lehi.
Lone Peak's recent performance includes a Sept. 24 loss to American Fork that ended on a disputed final play. While receiver Jaxonard Cloward caught a 29-yard pass from backup quarterback Marshall Durfey as time expired, the side judge ruled his knee hit the ground before the ball reached the end zone. According to the Herald Extra, the final score was American Fork 28, Lone Peak 24. Durfey started the game in place of senior quarterback Cruz Christansen, who has recorded 623 yards and eight touchdowns this season.
Skyridge will finish its Region 3 schedule with one remaining game against American Fork following the Oct. 2 game.
