As the first round of the AIA Football State Championships is underway, there are notable teams to look out for as they display their powerhouse abilities. Firstly, within the Open Division State Championship, Brophy Prep will take on Mountain View High School for the second time this season, having won their last meeting 31-28.
Additionally, the reigning Open Division State Champions, Basha High School, will be facing American Leadership Academy – Queen Creek (ALA QC). The Basha Bears are favored to win their first matchup and contend to win back-to-back championships, with a roster that includes 14 seniors who are committed to play NCAA Division I football.
However, Basha isn’t the only team expected to get far in the postseason; No. 1 ranked Liberty High School looks strong defensively, having only conceded one loss on their season to the Bears. Moreover, with Liberty being given the bye week to prepare for their matchup, it’s likely that they will come out strong with support from one of the best defensive players in the state; junior linebacker Brecken Garday. Regardless of quarterback injuries, having the support from their three rotating running backs is likely to get them far.
No. 2 ranked Chandler High School, the 2025 Open Division State Championship runner-ups, are hoping to be led by their 5-star, Oregon-commit quarterback Will Mencl. The Wolves and senior Mencl went against Basha just a year ago and are looking to wash away that 34-7 state championship loss, if given the opportunity to face the Bears again further in the postseason.
Chandler’s crosstown rival Hamilton High School, ranked at No. 3, has a chance to rematch against the Wolves after conceding 31-24 on Nov. 5. However, the Hamilton Huskies will first have to win their game coming out of the bye week, against the round-one winner of Perry vs. Sandra Day O’Connor.
Lastly, at No. 4, Centennial High School has a strong secondary that is led by brothers Elijah and Josiah Carothers. Further supporting that side of the ball is state-ranked senior defensive end Luke Franklin holding down the front line. However, if the Coyotes can get through what is likely to be a Basha High School matchup, they will have to face the highly favored, but offensively injured Liberty.
Every team within the Open Division State Championship bracket has a chance to come away with the state title. Many programs within it are being commanded by their strong defense, NCAA Division I committed players, and state-ranked all-stars.
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