Centennial looks to avenge last year’s 36-7 loss to Faith Lutheran, strengthen its status as Northwest League favorite in one of the valley’s top matchups.
Riley Schwartz threw for 111 yards and two touchdowns, and Marcos Canales had 123 yards on 16 carries for the Crusaders in a 35-0 Northwest League win.
Shadow Ridge and Palo Verde meet with both looking for a 2-0 start in Northwest League play to headline key league games from across the valley.
Clark has dramatically changed its fortunes, having won five straight games after claiming only four victories over the past three seasons combined.
So much has happened, such as surprising teams, fantastic finishes and the opening of Class 4A Southwest League play last week that was quite an appetizer for the rest of the league openers.
Several games around the valley were decided in the final minutes Friday, which made for an exciting night,
The Patriots led 12-0 in the first half and twice after halftime but couldn’t hold on in a 36-33 loss to Libery (Arizona) at home Friday night.
The Chargers’ defense has been the catalyst of the team’s 3-1 start, and it will face a Spring Valley team in the Southwest League opener that has struggled offensively.
The Aggies finally prevailed 38-32 Friday night by scoring on their overtime drive, then stopping the potent Longhorns’ passing attack on fourth down.
Koy Riggin threw two touchdown passes and ran for another, and Foothill held on for a 29-27 home win over Canyon Springs on Friday night.
State championships: None
State runner-up finishes: None
Region championships: None
League championships: None
Last 12 seasons
2019: 0-10 (0-6 Southwest/seventh)
2018: 7-5 (5-1 Southwest/second)
2017: 6-3 (5-1 Southwest/second)
2016: 8-2 (5-1 Southwest/second)
2015: 3-7 (3-4 3A Sunset/fourth)
2014: 7-4 (4-3 3A Sunset/second)
2013: 2-7 (1-4 Northwest/fifth)
2012: 1-8 (0-5 Northwest/sixth)
2011: 3-7 (3-5 Southwest/tied fifth)
2010: 1-9 (1-7 Southwest/eighth)
2009: 2-8 (2-6 Southwest/seventh)
2008: 5-6 (4-3 Southwest/fourth)
Recent head coaches
Tavita Seloti (2019- ): 0-10, 1 season
John Foss (2013-18): 33-28, 6 seasons
Mark Sauve (2005-12): 24-57, 8 seasons
Ben Johnson (2002-04): 13-17, 3 seasons