The Liberty vs. Centennial game on Friday, November 8, at 7 PM MST is shaping up to be one of Arizona’s most compelling high school football matchups. Liberty, with its 8-1 record, has consistently dominated opponents and is aiming to solidify a high seed in the playoffs. Centennial, despite a challenging 3-6 season, has shown flashes of potential and can be unpredictable, especially when playing at home in Peoria, Arizona.
How to Watch
- Broadcast: NFHS Network will stream the game live, accessible with a subscription.
- Location: Centennial High School, Peoria, Arizona
- Tickets: Available online via GoFan for fans planning to attend in person.
Team Profiles
Liberty Lions (8-1)
- Offensive Power: Liberty is averaging an impressive 40.2 points per game, fueled by a balanced offensive attack. Quarterback Hayden Fletcher has been central to their success, averaging over 257 passing yards per game.
- Key Playmakers: Fletcher’s favorite target, Braxton Huynh, leads the receiving corps with close to 90 receiving yards per game. On the ground, Esteban Demby-Lamas has been effective, providing Liberty with a reliable rushing option.
- Defensive Strength: Liberty’s defense is well-rounded, allowing only about 19 points per game. With 59 tackles per game and a strong pass rush averaging 4.4 sacks, they’ve limited big plays from opponents all season.
Centennial Coyotes (3-6)
- Offensive Strategy: Centennial averages 17.1 points per game and has leaned on the talents of Kainan Manna at quarterback, who posts about 137.6 passing yards per game. Running back Owen Reynoso brings physicality to their ground game, adding balance to the offense.
- Defensive Resilience: Centennial’s defense has struggled at times this season but has moments of strong play. With 47 tackles per game and a respectable pass rush, they’ll look to disrupt Liberty’s high-octane offense and contain their star receivers.
Key Matchups
- Passing Game: The Liberty passing offense, led by Fletcher and Huynh, will challenge Centennial’s secondary. Centennial’s ability to prevent big gains through the air will be crucial in keeping the game close.
- Ground Attack: Both teams have effective running backs, with Demby-Lamas for Liberty and Reynoso for Centennial. Establishing the run could be a key factor for Centennial, who will aim to control possession and keep Liberty’s offense off the field.
- Defensive Playmakers: Liberty’s defensive line has consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks, and Centennial will need solid protection for Manna to have time in the pocket. Liberty’s ability to force turnovers could play a pivotal role if they capitalize on any mistakes made by Centennial’s offense.
Game Strategy and Predictions
Liberty, favored due to its record and offensive firepower, will likely aim to establish dominance early. By scoring quickly and putting pressure on Centennial, they can force the Coyotes to play catch-up. Centennial’s path to victory involves a disciplined defense that limits Liberty’s big plays, along with a controlled offensive approach that capitalizes on field position and time of possession.
Given Liberty’s well-rounded team, they are expected to secure a win. However, Centennial’s home-field advantage and ability to perform in high-stakes games mean an upset isn’t out of the question. A close game could come down to which team can execute best in the fourth quarter.
Final Thoughts
The Liberty vs. Centennial game is a classic matchup with significant playoff implications for Liberty. Both teams will bring their best in this final regular-season game, setting the stage for an exciting evening of high school football in Arizona. Fans can expect an intense, hard-fought game from two teams eager to make a statement.
