The Ridgeline RiverHawks, boasting an undefeated record of 11-0, will host the Park City Miners, who stand at 7-4, in the 4A quarterfinals on Friday at 6 p.m. This matchup marks a rematch from earlier in the season, where Ridgeline soundly defeated Park City 39-3, solidifying their status as championship favorites.
This season, Ridgeline has shown remarkable dominance, averaging an impressive 51.7 points per game while conceding only 11.5. Their postseason journey continued with a commanding 73-14 win against East in the second round, a game that highlighted their explosive offense and tenacious defense.
Quarterback Nate Dahle has been pivotal for Ridgeline, completing 68.6% of his passes for 2,804 yards and 45 touchdowns, with a mere five interceptions. His connection with Graham Livingston, who has recorded 67 receptions for 1,111 yards and 15 touchdowns, has proven particularly effective; Livingston even scored twice in their previous encounter with Park City. The RiverHawks also feature a robust ground game led by Noah Fiefia and Hudson Parry, who have contributed significantly to their balanced offensive strategy. On the defensive side, linebacker Landon Perkins and the secondary, including Cooper Clark, have been instrumental, with the team achieving five shutouts this season.
Park City reached the quarterfinals after a narrow 23-20 victory over Sky View, where kicker Tanner Pidwell played a crucial role, successfully converting three field goals. The Miners” offense is spearheaded by Eli Warner, who excels both as a runner and receiver, and quarterback Josh Hofer, who has thrown for 1,321 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensively, Park City is anchored by linebackers Ben Souza and Wyatt Knapp, who aim to contain Ridgeline”s high-octane offense.
In another notable matchup, the Provo Bulldogs will face off against the Hurricane Tigers. Both teams are looking to break long semifinal droughts, with Provo”s absence dating back to 1999 and Hurricane last reaching the semifinals in 2014. Provo enters with momentum, having won their last six games, including a 45-6 rout of Salem Hills. Quarterback Gehrig Orchard has played a vital role, showcasing his ability to score through the air and on the ground.
Meanwhile, Hurricane, riding a three-game winning streak, demonstrated their strength with a 43-7 win over Highland, featuring standout performances from Austyn McRoberts and a solid defensive effort led by Tanner Matua and Jaxon Winegar.
In another quarterfinal, the two-time defending state champion Crimson Cliffs Mustangs will host the Stansbury Stallions. Crimson Cliffs is on a nine-game winning streak, showcasing their championship pedigree. Their recent victory against Timpanogos featured a stellar performance from running back Van Dailey. Stansbury, having advanced after a thrilling 49-42 win over Mountain Crest, will rely on quarterback Brighton Reutzel”s offensive prowess to challenge the Mustangs.
Lastly, Green Canyon will visit Skyline in a quarterfinal clash. Both teams are coming off impressive second-round upsets against higher-seeded opponents. Green Canyon”s offense, led by dual-threat quarterback Xavier Cocci, has been explosive, while Skyline aims for its first semifinal appearance since 2008.
The winners of these matchups will advance to the semifinals at Rice-Eccles Stadium next week, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the 4A playoff season.
