Top-seeded Mater East (7-3) begins its Class 4A postseason Friday against Cadence (0-9-1), a team it shut out 62-0 on Oct. 2. Six different Knights scored in that regular-season meeting, and quarterback James Monaghan and running back Marcus Williams are expected to lead a balanced offense again. Cadence has been shut out six times this season and enters the semifinals winless.
In another 4A semifinal, Sloan Canyon (7-2) faces SLAM! Nevada (4-5). The Pirates blew out the Bulls 42-6 earlier this month, and Sloan Canyon holds advantages in most statistical categories. Quarterback Cade Hoshino leads a pass-heavy attack for the Pirates, while their defense averages over four sacks per game. SLAM! Nevada prefers a ground game and will need long drives to control the clock and limit Sloan Canyon's offensive possessions.
Moapa (7-2) meets Boulder City (2-5) with the Pirates riding a three-game winning streak and the Eagles having lost four straight. Moapa won the regular-season matchup 48-13 behind quarterback Kamden Drosos, who threw for 287 yards and five touchdowns. The Pirates average 38 points per game to Boulder City's 13, and Boulder City's best hope rests on a slow-tempo ground game to shorten the contest.
The only matchup without a clear statistical favorite pits Pahrump Valley (5-4) against Virgin Valley (2-7). Pahrump won the regular-season meeting 21-14 in September, but the Bulldogs have won three of their last four games. Pahrump relies on dual-threat quarterback Evan Strain and running back Preston Doctor, while Virgin Valley is led by quarterback Krew Perry and running back Drew Dixon. The Trojans hold home-field advantage and a stronger schedule, but the rivalry has a history of close, unpredictable finishes.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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