On October 10, 2024, at 7:00 AM GMT+6, the high school football rivalry between Cyprus Pirates and Granger Lancers is set to ignite once again in a thrilling showdown. Both teams have deep roots in Utah high school football, and their passionate fanbases are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most exciting games of the season. With playoff implications hanging in the balance, this matchup carries significant weight for both squads as they fight for supremacy.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll provide a detailed preview of the game, including team analysis, standout players, expert predictions, and how you can watch the action live. This breakdown will give football fans everything they need to know ahead of the big game, as the Cyprus Pirates and Granger Lancers prepare to clash on the gridiron.
How to Watch Cyprus vs. Granger
Date and Time:
- October 10, 2024
- 7:00 AM GMT+6
Location:
- Cyprus High School Stadium, Magna, Utah
Broadcast Information:
- Live on NFHS Network
- The NFHS Network will provide live coverage of the game, allowing fans from around the country to tune in and experience the excitement. For those unable to attend in person, a subscription to the NFHS Network grants access to high school football games nationwide, including this highly anticipated contest between Cyprus and Granger.
Team Profiles
Cyprus Pirates
The Cyprus Pirates are one of the most storied programs in Utah high school football. They’ve built a reputation for fielding tough, physical teams that excel on both sides of the ball. Under the leadership of head coach Troy Benson, the Pirates have enjoyed a solid 2024 season, with a mix of experienced seniors and talented underclassmen leading the charge.
Key Players
- Quarterback: Jake Marshall
Marshall has been the centerpiece of the Pirates’ offense this season, displaying poise in the pocket and the ability to make plays when it matters most. With over 1,500 passing yards and 17 touchdowns, Marshall has proven to be a reliable leader for his team. His decision-making and ability to manage the game will be critical against a formidable Granger defense. - Running Back: Ethan Reed
Reed has been a standout in the Cyprus ground game, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. His combination of power and speed makes him a threat to break off big plays, and his ability to grind out tough yards helps the Pirates control the tempo of the game. - Wide Receiver: Nate Lawson
Lawson is the top target in the Pirates’ passing attack, leading the team with 700 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns. His speed and route-running ability make him a difficult matchup for opposing defensive backs, and Marshall frequently looks to him on deep routes and in key situations. - Linebacker: Jason Ward
Ward is the anchor of the Cyprus defense, leading the team with 85 tackles and 5 sacks. Known for his toughness and football IQ, Ward is a disruptive force who excels at stopping the run and making plays in the backfield. His leadership on defense will be crucial as the Pirates look to contain Granger’s offense.
Granger Lancers
The Granger Lancers have had a strong season under head coach David Martinez, with a focus on speed, athleticism, and a high-powered offensive attack. The Lancers have been one of the more exciting teams to watch in Utah high school football this year, as their fast-paced style of play has resulted in several high-scoring games. Granger is looking to make a statement with a big win over Cyprus in this matchup.
Key Players
- Quarterback: Bryce Allen
Allen is the engine that drives the Granger offense, and he’s had a fantastic season so far. With over 2,000 passing yards and 21 touchdowns, Allen has shown the ability to pick apart defenses with his accurate throws and quick decision-making. His leadership will be key for the Lancers, especially against a tough Cyprus defense. - Running Back: Jamal Jackson
Jackson provides a versatile weapon in the Granger backfield, with 800 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns this season. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds another dimension to the Lancers’ offense, and his speed makes him a threat to take it to the house on any given play. - Wide Receiver: Marcus Green
Green has emerged as Allen’s favorite target in the passing game, with 900 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on the season. His athleticism and big-play ability make him a constant threat in the Granger offense, and Cyprus will need to keep a close eye on him to avoid giving up explosive plays. - Defensive Back: Tyrone Lewis
Lewis is the leader of the Granger secondary, with 4 interceptions and 12 pass breakups this season. His ability to lock down opposing receivers and make plays on the ball will be vital for the Lancers as they try to limit Cyprus’ passing attack.
Game Preview
The Rivalry
The Cyprus vs. Granger matchup has developed into one of the more intriguing rivalries in Utah high school football. While it may not have the long history of some other rivalries in the state, the intensity and competitive nature of recent meetings between these two teams have elevated it to a must-watch game every season. Both teams come into this contest with much to prove, and the rivalry aspect only adds to the significance of this game.
Current Form
Both teams have been performing well throughout the 2024 season, with Cyprus holding a 5-2 record and Granger sitting at 6-1. Cyprus is coming off a dominant win over a regional opponent, while Granger has strung together five consecutive victories, showing no signs of slowing down.
For Cyprus, their defense has been their calling card this season, allowing just 16 points per game. They’ve been able to shut down opposing offenses with their aggressive, hard-hitting style of play, and they’ll need to continue that trend against Granger’s potent offensive attack.
Granger, meanwhile, has been lighting up the scoreboard, averaging over 35 points per game. Their fast-paced offense, led by Bryce Allen, has been difficult for opponents to contain, and they’ll look to overwhelm Cyprus with their speed and precision in the passing game.
Keys to the Game
- Quarterback Play:
Both Jake Marshall and Bryce Allen have been outstanding this season, and the battle between these two quarterbacks will be a major storyline in this game. Marshall’s ability to manage the game and avoid turnovers will be crucial for Cyprus, while Allen’s playmaking ability and deep-ball accuracy will be key for Granger. - Establishing the Run:
Both teams will look to establish their ground game early to set the tone for the game. Ethan Reed will be a focal point for Cyprus, as they’ll want to control the clock and keep Granger’s high-powered offense off the field. On the other side, Jamal Jackson will be a key weapon for Granger, as his ability to break big plays in the running and passing game could be the difference. - Defensive Intensity:
Cyprus has been one of the top defensive teams in the state this season, and they’ll need to bring that same intensity if they hope to slow down Granger’s offense. Jason Ward and the Cyprus defense must contain Bryce Allen and force Granger into difficult third-down situations. Meanwhile, Granger’s defense, led by Tyrone Lewis, will need to create turnovers and limit Cyprus’ time of possession. - Special Teams Play:
In a game that is expected to be tightly contested, special teams could play a pivotal role. Field position, kick returns, and the kicking game could all make a difference in determining the outcome of this game. Both teams will need to be sharp in this area to gain any potential edge.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Odds:
- Cyprus Pirates: +3.5
- Granger Lancers: -3.5
- Over/Under: 50.5 points
Granger comes into this matchup as slight favorites, given their explosive offense and overall strong performance this season. However, Cyprus’ stout defense and ability to control the game with their ground attack make this a challenging game to predict. The over/under of 50.5 points reflects the potential for a high-scoring affair, especially if Granger is able to dictate the pace.
Expert Predictions
This game has all the makings of a classic, with both teams possessing the talent and drive to come out on top. While Granger’s offense has been one of the most prolific in the state, Cyprus’ ability to slow the game down with their running game and solid defense could keep this one close until the final whistle.
- Prediction: Granger 28, Cyprus 24
- In the end, Bryce Allen’s ability to make plays down the stretch, combined with Granger’s explosive offensive weapons, may be just enough to outlast Cyprus. Look for this game to be highly competitive, with both teams trading blows throughout. Granger’s quick-strike offense could ultimately prove to be the difference in a close contest.
Players to Watch
- Jake Marshall (Cyprus):
Marshall will need to be at his best in this game, as Granger’s secondary presents a tough challenge. If Marshall can connect with his receivers and avoid costly turnovers, Cyprus will have a chance to pull off the upset. - Ethan Reed (Cyprus):
Reed’s ability to find success on the ground will be key for Cyprus. If he can keep the chains moving and control the tempo of the game, Cyprus’ chances of winning will increase significantly. - Bryce Allen (Granger):
Allen has been a star all season for the Lancers, and this game will be another opportunity for him to showcase his talent. Look for Allen to spread the ball around and test the Cyprus secondary with his arm strength and accuracy. - Tyrone Lewis (Granger):
Lewis will be tasked with shutting down Cyprus’ passing game, and his play in the secondary will be crucial to Granger’s defensive success. If he can come up with a key interception or two, it could swing the game in Granger’s favor.
Final Thoughts
The Cyprus Pirates and Granger Lancers are two of the top teams in Utah high school football, and their matchup on October 10, 2024, promises to be one of the most exciting games of the season. With playoff implications on the line, both teams will be giving it their all to come away with a victory. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of high school football or just looking for an exciting game to watch, this showdown between Cyprus and Granger is one you won’t want to miss.
Tune in live on the NFHS Network at 7:00 AM GMT+6 to catch all the action and see which team will come out on top in this epic battle!
