DENVER – The Colorado Class 5A high school football playoffs are heating up as each of the state’s top teams gear up for the quarterfinal round. Each team has battled through a grueling regular season and emerged victorious in their playoff appearances, bringing them one step closer to the ultimate goal: the state championship at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins.
This weekend’s matchups feature a mix of undefeated powerhouses, high-octane offenses, and defenses that have stifled opponents all season long. From traditional heavyweights like Cherry Creek and Valor Christian to rising contenders such as Mountain Vista and Fairview, each team brings unique strengths and compelling storylines to the table.
With everything on the line, the quarterfinals promise to deliver dramatic moments, standout performances, and the kind of intensity that makes high school football so special. Let’s dive into the matchups and see what to expect as these teams fight for a spot in the semifinals.
Game 1: Cherry Creek Bruins vs. Erie Tigers – 5A Quarterfinals
Matchup: #1 Cherry Creek (10-1) vs. #9 Erie (10-1)
Date/Time: Friday, November 22, 2024, 7:00 PM
Location: Stutler Bowl
The Cherry Creek Bruins and Erie Tigers meet in a 5A quarterfinal clash, showcasing two teams with strong seasons and playoff momentum. Cherry Creek comes in as the top seed, having rolled past Grandview 38-10 in the second round, while Erie stunned #8 Pine Creek in a gritty 28-23 victory. This matchup pits Cherry Creek’s balanced dominance against Erie’s gritty, run-heavy style.
Team Overview and Season Recap
Cherry Creek Bruins (10-1)
• Overview: Cherry Creek has lived up to its billing as the top seed, dominating opponents with a balanced offense that averages 444.2 total yards and 39.5 points per game. Their only blemish was an early-season loss to Utah powerhouse Skyridge.
• Strengths: The Bruins boast a balanced attack led by quarterback Brady Vodicka and running back Jayden Fox, complemented by a swarming defense that has averaged 87.1 tackles and 3.1 sacks per game.
• Key Player Stats:
• Jayden Fox (RB): Leads the ground game with 127 rushing yards per game and has been a consistent scoring threat.
• Brady Vodicka (QB): Efficient through the air, averaging 216.5 passing yards and 229.6 total yards per game.
• Aiden Knapke (LB): Anchors the defense with 8.9 tackles per game, keeping opposing offenses in check.
Erie Tigers (10-1)
• Overview: Erie’s run-heavy offense and scrappy defense have led them to a strong season. After close losses to Ralston Valley and Mountain Vista early in the year, the Tigers have found their stride, culminating in a thrilling win over Pine Creek in the second round.
• Strengths: Erie relies on a physical rushing attack led by Braylon Toliver, complemented by efficient passing from Ronin Ward. Their defense, while not statistically dominant, has made key stops in critical moments.
• Key Player Stats:
• Braylon Toliver (RB): Averages 89.1 rushing yards per game, setting the tone for Erie’s offense.
• Ronin Ward (QB): Manages the offense effectively, contributing 124.2 passing yards and 180.6 total yards per game.
• Carson Hageman (LB): Leads the defense with 10.2 tackles per game, providing leadership and stability.
Cherry Creek has the clear edge statistically, particularly in total yards and points per game, showcasing their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball.
Key Matchups
• Cherry Creek’s Passing Game vs. Erie’s Secondary:
With Vodicka throwing for over 216 yards per game, Erie’s secondary will need to play its best game of the season. Limiting big plays to Jeremiah Hoffman and other receivers will be critical to staying competitive.
• Erie’s Rushing Game vs. Cherry Creek’s Defensive Front:
Braylon Toliver leads an Erie rushing attack that averages 202.1 yards per game. Cherry Creek’s front seven, led by Knapke, will aim to disrupt Erie’s game plan and force them into passing situations.
• Battle in the Trenches:
The game could be decided at the line of scrimmage, with Cherry Creek’s balanced offense needing protection and Erie relying on its run-blocking to create opportunities for Toliver.
• Common Opponents:
Both teams faced Pine Creek this season. Cherry Creek won a defensive battle 21-14, while Erie edged them 28-23. The Bruins’ lower-scoring victory highlights their defensive strength, while Erie’s win demonstrates resilience under pressure.
What to Expect
Cherry Creek enters as the heavy favorite, with a deeper, more balanced team on paper. Erie’s path to victory lies in controlling the clock with their rushing attack, avoiding turnovers, and capitalizing on opportunities to keep the game close. However, Cherry Creek’s ability to score in bunches and their swarming defense could prove too much for the Tigers.
Prediction: Cherry Creek’s offensive versatility and defensive consistency give them a significant edge in this matchup. Erie will compete hard, but the Bruins are likely to pull away in the second half.
Game 2: Mountain Vista Golden Eagles vs. Fairview Knights – 5A Quarterfinals
Matchup: #2 Mountain Vista vs. #7 Fairview
Date/Time: Friday, November 22, 2024, 7:00 PM
Location: Halftime Help Stadium
The Mountain Vista Golden Eagles and Fairview Knights clash in a quarterfinal showdown of unbeatens, with both teams entering at a perfect 11-0. Each team boasts high-powered offenses and resilient defenses, making this one of the most anticipated matchups of the postseason. With a semifinal berth on the line, expect an electric atmosphere as two undefeated teams put their seasons on the line.
Team Overview and Season Recap
Mountain Vista Golden Eagles (11-0)
• Overview: Mountain Vista has been dominant all season, averaging a staggering 54.7 points per game. They cruised through the second round with a commanding 49-14 victory over Fossil Ridge. Led by quarterback Austyn Modrzewski, the Golden Eagles’ potent offense has been nearly impossible to stop.
• Strengths: Mountain Vista thrives on their aerial attack, with Modrzewski spreading the ball to a talented group of playmakers. Their defense complements the offense by creating key stops and turnovers.
• Key Player Stats:
• Austyn Modrzewski (QB): Leads with 282.2 passing yards per game and 299 total yards, showcasing his ability to dominate through the air.
• Jackson Crawford (RB): Averages 105 rushing yards per game, adding balance to the offense.
• Sean Conway (WR): Mountain Vista’s top receiver, averaging 71.9 yards per game.
Fairview Knights (11-0)
• Overview: Fairview also enters the quarterfinals undefeated after narrowly defeating Fossil Ridge 29-26 in the second round. While their record is flawless, they’ve faced closer contests than Mountain Vista, relying on their balanced offensive attack and opportunistic defense to stay perfect.
• Strengths: Fairview’s offense is led by dual-threat quarterback Ki Ellison and dynamic running back Jordan Rechel, giving them versatility and the ability to adapt to different game situations.
• Key Player Stats:
• Ki Ellison (QB): Averages 216.4 passing yards per game and 236.7 total yards, making him the engine of the Knights’ offense.
• Jordan Rechel (RB): Contributes 69.5 rushing yards and 68.5 receiving yards per game, serving as a consistent playmaker.
• Ryder Villarreal (LB): Leads the defense with 7.8 tackles per game.
Mountain Vista holds the edge in passing and scoring, while Fairview has the advantage in rushing and total yards, making this a clash of styles.
Key Matchups
• Mountain Vista’s Passing Game vs. Fairview’s Secondary:
Modrzewski has shredded defenses all season with his 282.2 passing yards per game. Fairview’s secondary will need to find a way to contain him and prevent deep connections with Sean Conway.
• Fairview’s Ground Attack vs. Mountain Vista’s Front Seven:
Fairview’s rushing game, led by Jordan Rechel, will be critical to controlling the clock and keeping Modrzewski off the field. Mountain Vista’s defense, anchored by Carter Daniels (12.5 tackles per game), must step up to stop the run.
• Battle of the Quarterbacks:
Both Modrzewski and Ellison are the driving forces behind their offenses. The quarterback who can limit mistakes and capitalize in the red zone will likely lead their team to victory.
• Common Opponent Comparison:
Both teams defeated Fossil Ridge, but Mountain Vista’s 49-14 blowout win highlights their dominance, while Fairview’s 29-26 narrow victory suggests potential vulnerabilities.
What to Expect
This battle of unbeaten teams will showcase two contrasting offensive styles: Mountain Vista’s pass-heavy attack versus Fairview’s balanced ground and air game. Expect big plays on both sides, with the outcome hinging on which defense can rise to the occasion.
Prediction: Mountain Vista’s ability to score quickly and efficiently through the air, combined with their overall depth, gives them the edge in this quarterfinal matchup. Fairview’s balanced offense will keep the game competitive, but the Golden Eagles’ explosiveness should prove too much to handle.
Game 3: Ralston Valley Mustangs vs. Legend Titans – 5A Quarterfinals
Matchup: #3 Ralston Valley vs. #6 Legend
Date/Time: Saturday, November 23, 2024, 12:00 PM
Location: NAAC Stadium
The quarterfinal showdown between Ralston Valley and Legend features two of the most physical and balanced teams in Class 5A. Both programs have had outstanding seasons, with just one loss each, and their battle at NAAC Stadium promises to be one of the weekend’s most compelling matchups.
Team Overview and Season Recap
Ralston Valley Mustangs (10-1)
• Overview: Ralston Valley has been a model of consistency this season, with their lone loss coming against Valor Christian, 34-17. The Mustangs are riding high after a narrow but gritty 35-34 win over Columbine late in the regular season and a commanding second-round playoff performance.
• Strengths: A well-rounded offense, led by quarterback Zeke Andrews, averages 381.5 total yards per game. Their passing game is particularly potent, giving them the ability to stretch defenses and create big plays.
• Key Player Stats:
• Bryson Diebel (RB): Leads the rushing attack with 130 yards per game, providing power and explosiveness.
• Zeke Andrews (QB): Averages 200 passing yards and 260.4 total yards per game, making him a dual-threat force.
• Matt Gates (LB): Anchors the defense with 11 tackles per game, leading a disciplined unit.
Legend Titans (10-1)
• Overview: Legend’s only loss came in Week 3 against Columbine in a hard-fought 16-14 game. The Titans have relied on a strong rushing attack and a defense that consistently pressures opponents. They’ve posted quality wins over playoff teams like Grandview and Douglas County, showcasing their ability to compete against top-tier opponents.
• Strengths: Legend excels in the run game, averaging 215.1 rushing yards per game, giving them the ability to control the clock and wear down defenses.
• Key Player Stats:
• Jaden Lawrence (RB): Leads the rushing attack with 84.6 yards per game and 10.2 points per game, serving as the focal point of the offense.
• Nicholas Farley (QB): Averages 83.7 passing yards and 112.3 total yards per game, managing the offense effectively.
• John Niedringhaus (LB): Averages 8.3 tackles per game, leading a defense that thrives on physicality.
Legend’s ground game gives them an edge in rushing yards, while Ralston Valley’s prolific passing attack provides a significant advantage through the air.
Key Matchups
• Legend’s Rushing Attack vs. Ralston Valley’s Defense:
Jaden Lawrence and the Titans’ rushing game will look to control the pace and keep Ralston Valley’s offense off the field. The Mustangs’ defense, led by Matt Gates, must limit Lawrence’s yardage and force Legend into passing situations.
• Ralston Valley’s Passing Game vs. Legend’s Secondary:
Zeke Andrews has been outstanding this season, averaging 200 passing yards per game. Legend’s secondary will need to step up and disrupt Andrews’ timing to prevent explosive plays downfield.
• Battle in the Trenches:
Both teams rely heavily on physicality at the line of scrimmage. Legend’s ability to generate 2.7 sacks per game could disrupt Ralston Valley’s passing attack, while Ralston Valley’s offensive line will aim to create space for Diebel and protect Andrews.
• Common Opponents:
Both teams faced Columbine and Grandview during the season. Legend lost to Columbine 16-14, while Ralston Valley edged them 35-34. Both teams defeated Grandview, but Ralston Valley’s 10-9 victory suggests their defensive resilience in close games.
What to Expect
This game will likely be decided by which team can impose their style of play. Legend’s powerful rushing attack gives them the ability to control the clock, while Ralston Valley’s balanced offense can strike quickly and stretch the field. The team that wins the battle in the trenches and avoids costly turnovers will likely come out on top.
Prediction: While both teams are evenly matched, Ralston Valley’s balanced offense and ability to generate big plays through the air give them the edge in this quarterfinal matchup. Expect a close and physical game, with Ralston Valley narrowly advancing.
Game 4: Columbine Rebels vs. Valor Christian Eagles – 5A Quarterfinals
Matchup: #4 Columbine vs. #5 Valor Christian
Date/Time: Saturday, November 23, 2024, 12:00 PM
Location: Jeffco Stadium
The Columbine Rebels and Valor Christian Eagles face off in a highly anticipated quarterfinal showdown. Both teams boast 10-1 records and come into this matchup after impressive second-round victories. With contrasting offensive styles and key playmakers on both sides, this game is a clash of two perennial powerhouses in Colorado high school football.
Team Overview and Season Recap
Columbine Rebels (10-1)
• Overview: Columbine’s offense is built around a dominant rushing attack, averaging 343.1 rushing yards per game. Their only loss came in a thriller against Ralston Valley, 35-34, and they bounced back with a resounding 42-12 victory over Cherokee Trail in the second round.
• Strengths: Columbine relies on physicality and time of possession, using their ground game to wear down opponents. Their defense complements this with high tackle and sack numbers.
• Key Player Stats:
• James Basinger (RB): Leads the rushing attack with 148.7 yards per game and 14.9 points per game.
• Brennan Goodwin (QB): Though Columbine rarely throws, Goodwin manages the offense efficiently, averaging 33.6 passing yards per game.
• Lijah Vialpondo (LB): Anchors the defense with 10.6 tackles per game, leading a tough and disciplined unit.
Valor Christian Eagles (10-1)
• Overview: Valor Christian leans on a balanced offense that can attack through the air and on the ground. Their only loss came early in the season, but they’ve since won nine straight, including a 24-17 win over Regis Jesuit in the second round.
• Strengths: The Eagles excel in the passing game, averaging 215.7 yards per game through the air, thanks to standout quarterback Dawson Olk. Their defense has been opportunistic, limiting big plays and creating turnovers.
• Key Player Stats:
• Dawson Olk (QB): Averages 202.2 passing yards per game and 213 total yards, making him a dual-threat weapon.
• Chase Hanosh (RB): Adds balance to the offense with 82.7 rushing yards per game.
• Cash Spence (WR): Olk’s favorite target, averaging 72.7 receiving yards per game and 13.3 points per game.
Columbine’s strength lies in their dominant rushing attack, while Valor Christian’s balanced offense makes them a versatile threat.
Key Matchups
• Columbine’s Rushing Attack vs. Valor Christian’s Front Seven:
James Basinger has been nearly unstoppable this season, leading Columbine’s potent ground game. Valor’s defensive line, led by Moises Freeman, will need to contain Basinger and force Columbine into passing situations.
• Valor Christian’s Passing Game vs. Columbine’s Secondary:
Dawson Olk and Cash Spence have been a dynamic duo all season. Columbine’s secondary must step up to limit big plays and disrupt Valor’s rhythm through the air.
• Battle in the Trenches:
Both teams thrive on physicality, and the outcome could be decided by which team controls the line of scrimmage. Columbine’s offensive line will aim to open holes for Basinger, while Valor’s line will need to protect Olk and establish their own ground game.
• Common Opponents:
Both teams faced ThunderRidge and Ralston Valley during the regular season. While both defeated ThunderRidge convincingly, Columbine lost a tight game to Ralston Valley, 35-34, whereas Valor defeated them, 34-17, suggesting an edge for the Eagles in terms of versatility and consistency.
What to Expect
This game will feature a battle of styles, with Columbine’s ground-and-pound approach clashing against Valor’s balanced offense. If Columbine can control time of possession and keep Valor’s offense off the field, they have a chance to grind out a win. On the other hand, Valor’s ability to strike quickly through the air could put pressure on Columbine to play catch-up—a scenario they’re not built for.
Prediction: Valor Christian’s balance on offense and slightly stronger performance against common opponents give them the edge in this matchup. Expect a hard-fought game with both teams relying on their strengths, but the Eagles’ versatility could be the deciding factor.
Final Score Prediction: Valor Christian 31, Columbine 27
Denver Sports Media 
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