Outlook: Mesquite has won the games it was supposed to thus far (North and San Luis). Notching a win over a favored opponent is essential before the rigors of Fiesta Region play set in Oct. 6.
What would be a boon for Mesquite is a sweep the next two weeks of the Ahwatukee schools. It may be possible if Mesquite continues to move the ball as it has each game so far. Running back Luckas Scott, quarterback Scott Ketter and tight end Trevor Kohl have been an effective trio operating behind a large offensive line.
Desert Vista is hurting without Avory Battle for an extended period of time, and Allante Battle isn’t fully healthy either. The other problem is dropped passes, which were a point of emphasis before the Mountain View game, but resurfaced in the loss. Dan Hinds believes his team had an off night, and he’s expecting a fast turnaround. “Moral victories, we’ve done that too much in my opinion,” he said. “I wasn’t happy with them and they knew it. We need to start making plays. Until we do we’re going to struggle.” John Trujillo and Mario Abbadessa will replace Avory Battle in the backfield. The Thunder are counting on their skillposition players being a factor.
Address: 500 S. McQueen Road, Gilbert
Records: Desert Vista 1-2; Mesquite 2-1
Last year’s meeting: Desert Vista 29, Mesquite 20
