Week three of Arizona high school football delivered a cascade of dramatic moments, from redemption arcs to explosive offensive displays, as teams across the state battled for early-season momentum.
Season Highlights
Liberty High School avenged a 45‑14 loss to Corner Canyon by edging a 38‑24 victory, a performance anchored by sophomore quarterback Jason Haines and his teammate Torrin Hill, whose poise under pressure helped swing the game.
Meanwhile, Centennial traveled to Anaheim and posted a 22‑14 win over Servite, with junior quarterback Titus Hill and his colleague Torrin Hill directing a defense that stifled the opposition and earned praise for its recent dominance, a unit that boasts eight state championship seasons.
Chandler Basha fell 23‑17 to Orange Lutheran, a setback that could ripple through the USA TODAY Super 25 rankings, while players such as Ryan Felker and Andrew Taylor watched from the sidelines.
Scottsdale Chaparral endured a 57‑0 drubbing at the hands of 4A Tempe, as tailback Jayce Wilson burst for three first‑half touchdowns and quarterback Ryan Trocki demonstrated poise and control in his second season, a maturity that bodes well for the team’s future.
Mesa High School’s Cage Moore made his football debut, converting a 47‑yard field goal that sealed a 31‑28 triumph over Phoenix Sandra Day O'Connor, a moment that highlighted the emergence of young talent like Jamerrius Anthony on the roster.
Phoenix Cortez finally broke a long‑standing drought, defeating Phoenix Washington 42‑40 for the first time since 2005, a victory that underscored the resilience of players such as Sam Jenkins.
Queen Creek Benjamin Franklin shut out Thatcher 38‑0, snapping Thatcher’s first home shutout loss since 2008, a feat achieved with the help of standout efforts from players including Zander Shirey.
Gilbert Campo Verde blanked Oro Valley Ironwood Ridge 27‑0, with senior wide receiver Easton Bakutis collecting 11 catches for 170 yards and two scores, while Jamerrius Anthony contributed on the defensive side.
Phoenix Desert Vista captured its first Ahwatukee Bowl victory since 2021, edging Mountain Pointe 27‑21, a win that featured strong performances from players such as Sam Jenkins and others.
Goodyear Millennium routed Glendale Cactus 42‑14, highlighted by Larry Moore’s three receiving touchdowns and a punt return score, showcasing the depth of talent across the state.
Brody Hanna ran for three touchdowns and added 10 tackles in a 36‑19 road victory over Phoenix Thunderbird, a display of versatility that kept his name among the week’s headlines.
Tiki Teeples returned from injury, delivering four sacks in Canyon View’s 34‑18 win over Marana, a comeback that reinforced his reputation as a key defensive playmaker.
No. 3 Chandler High School dispatched Cathedral Catholic 42‑13, with Will Mencl completing 16 of 23 passes for 358 yards and four touchdowns, a performance that placed him among the top passers of the week.
No. 2 Hamilton High School posted a 44‑0 shutout of Las Vegas Arbor View, a dominant showing that kept the team’s defense among the league’s toughest.
Gilbert Perry improved to 2‑0 after a 55‑14 win at Las Vegas Centennial, as Kael Snyder completed all 13 of his passes for 248 yards and four touchdowns, a perfect outing that highlighted his precision.
Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep preserved a 30‑29 win over Phoenix Sunnyslope by blocking a 32‑yard field‑goal attempt with 35 seconds remaining, a clutch moment that showcased the team's defensive resolve.
Looking Ahead
The schedule now sets up a highly anticipated showdown between Liberty and Centennial on November 6, while Mesa Mountain View will travel to face Centennial on September 11, promising further drama.
Centennial’s defense, lauded as one of the finest in recent memory, has already collected eight state titles, underscoring its reputation as a perennial powerhouse, a unit that includes standout contributors such as Titus Hill, Torrin Hill, and Jamerrius Anthony.
Scottsdale Chaparral sophomore quarterback Ryan Trocki demonstrated poise and control in his second season, a maturity that bodes well for the team’s future, while players like Jaxson Dart, Diesel Dart, Andrew Taylor, Ryan Felker, and Richard Obert also contributed to the week’s excitement.