Region 7 Preview part 2: Six months out
The new look Region 7 is loaded with talented programs after the latest UHSAA realignment. We looked at Timpview, Orem, and Springville in part one, and in part two, we’ll dive into the other three teams that should make this…
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Continue ReadingThe new look Region 7 is loaded with talented programs after the latest UHSAA realignment. We looked at Timpview, Orem, and Springville in part one, and in part two, we’ll dive into the other three teams that should make this one of the best regions in 5A.
Wasatch Wasps
The Wasps entered the playoffs 3- 6, but they might have been the states best three-win team entering postseason play. Wasatch had a brutal 2022 schedule that featured showdowns with Park City, Mountain Ridge, Pleasant Grove, and Springville. The Wasps had lost their last three regular-season games but stayed locked in and reaped the playoff benefits because of it. Head Coach, Steve Coburn’s team squeaked out a tight round one victory against Woods Cross 28-27 on the road. The Wasps would stay hot in the second round beating Spanish Fork 49-42. Their run ended at the hands of Timpview in the quarterfinals, but the Wasps are undoubtedly hungry to build on their late-season success. Looking ahead to 2023, Quarterback Mack Kelson shinned with over 3,26 yards passing and 22 passing touchdowns as just a sophomore last year. Receivers Carter Bucad and Joseph Hyer rerun after combining for over 800 yards. Defensively the Wasps welcome back their second-leading tackler Kolton Brisk and a secondary loaded with talent. Defensive backs Tavian Edwards and Colron Bassett return after combining for nine interceptions last year. Wasatch was 5-7 and could be one of the top teams in 5A with so much returning talent in 2023.
Cedar Valley Aviators
The Aviators were exceptional in 2022. Cedar Valley was an impressive 6-1 in Region 7 play last year and 8-4 overall. They started the season 1-2, but the Aviators found their groove as soon as region play began. Cedar Valley narrowly beat Payson 29-26, but all their other wins in Region 7 came by 20 or more points. Their one loss in region play was to Stansbury, but the Stallions were one of the state’s best teams in 2022. Cedar Valley would get another chance to beat the Stallions in the second round of the playoffs after an impressive first-round win over Viewmount 52-34. But Stansbury would once again claim victory ending the Aviators season. As the only returning Region 7 team, Cedar Valley will have the chance to vie for one of the top spots in 5A in 2023. Quarterback may be unknown but running back Joe Lomu, and receiver Ethan Johnson provide whoever the starting signal caller may be with some potent weapons. Defensively the Aviators will be young but defensive lineman Devoux Tuataga, who registered nine sacks last year, will be a game-wrecker up front. Cedar Valley head coach Weston Zabriskie will have his team ready to go, and they will be a tough out for any team they face in 2023.
Maple Mountain Golden Eagles
The Golden Eagles struggled to find their footing during the 2022 season. Maple Mountain won their season opener against Mountain View 41-14, but things went downhill shortly after. A loaded schedule that included Park City, Farmington, Alta, and all the imposing Region 9 teams did them no favors. Just two seasons ago, the Golden Eagles won nine games, and they should take a step in the right direction to get back to that point in 2023. Quarterbacks Sawyer Leifson and Brogan Miles both saw time in 2022 and will compete for the job this spring and fall camp. Whoever wins the job will have the luxury of throwing to Easton Merrell, who should be an elite receiver in 2023. Defensively the Golden Eagles return linebacker Michael Knudsen but will need other players to step up come August. Maple Mountain’s head coach, Brade Burtenshaw, will go into his 15th year with the team in 2023 and will look to get his program back on track after a disappointing year.