Lone Peak and Skyridge lead a group of four local football teams favored to win their matchups this Friday, Sept. 11, according to the Deseret News' weekly ratings system. The favorites, which include Highland and Lehi, all face opponents with significant spreads in their favor heading into the fifth week of the season.
Lone Peak Dominates Timpview
Lone Peak enters Friday's matchup with momentum following a resounding 41-0 victory over Timpview on Friday, Sept. 11, as reported by the Daily Herald. The Knights' victory was fueled by a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Krew Robinson and a dominant defensive performance that prevented Timpview from scoring a single point.
Defensive Shutdown
The Knights' defense was a primary factor in the shutout, recording multiple interceptions and sacks to stall the Timpview offense. Lone Peak senior defensive back Gabe Harmon noted that the team's focus was on shutting down Timpview's star wideout Dennis Tuaone, a goal the defense successfully achieved. Harmon added that the team's ability to start strong was a significant improvement, noting that the Knights scored 40 points in the first half alone.
Building Resilience
Lone Peak coach Bart Brockbank expressed pride in how his team responded to recent challenges, including a 59-3 loss to IMG Academy three weeks prior and a 38-14 loss to Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas on Sept. 4. The Knights' victory improves their season record to 3-2, setting the stage for their region opener against Corner Canyon on Sept. 18.
Skyridge Homecoming Outlook
Skyridge, ranked No. 3 by KSL Sports, enters Friday's homecoming game against Skyline as a heavy favorite. The Falcons hold a power rating of 125.2 compared to Skyline's 79.2, making them the largest mismatch on paper among the local teams. Skyridge enters the game with a 3-1 record following a 24-20 road win over Liberty of Henderson, Nevada.
Falcons Overcome Travel Troubles
The Falcons' recent victory against Liberty of Henderson was marked by unexpected circumstances when the team's bus broke down in the desert, forcing a scramble for a replacement vehicle. Despite the travel issues, quarterback Jagger Fountaine delivered a strong performance, throwing for 270 yards and three touchdowns. Skyridge head coach Justin Hemm said he was proud of how the players continued to compete and found a way to finish the game on the road.
Highland's Winning Streak
Highland enters Friday's game at East with a 3-1 record and a three-game winning streak. The Rams are favored by 13.3 points and carry a power rating of 66.7. Their momentum follows a 55-0 shutout win against Cottonwood on Sept. 4, where quarterback Will Bauman threw four touchdown passes, including 45-yard and 55-yard strikes to Zamiri Vaughn, according to the Deseret News.
Lehi's Upcoming Challenge,
Lehi faces Weber in what is expected to be the closest matchup of the night, with the Pioneers favored by 12.9 points. Lehi enters the game with a 2-2 record against a Weber team ranked No. 17 by KSL Sports. Lehi head coach Andy Hadfield described the trip as a final warmup before league play begins, though he cautioned that the team must contain Weber's quarterback.