5A- Region 4 Preview. Pt1

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We start our region preview series and Region 4 is up. In this edition, we cover Cyprus, Granger, and Hillcrest.<br><br>Cyprus Pirates:<br>2024 record: 1-9<br><br>2025 Key Games:<br>Friday, August 15- Clearfield<br>Friday, August 22- Wasatch<br>Friday, August 29- Tooele<br>The Pirates open the season with three straight home games. If they can take two of three, it will set them up nicely for the remaining schedule<br><br>2025 Hardest Games:<br>Friday, September 12- at West Jordan<br>Friday, September 26- Granger<br>Friday, October 10- at Hunter<br>Thursday, October 16- West<br>The quintet of games will be tough for the Pirates. If they can upset one of the road games, that would be considered a huge success.<br><br>2025 Outlook:<br>It's a tough schedule for a rebuilt unit, and there might be two games that could be easy wins; the remainder of the schedule is brutal.<br><br>Key Players:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1703694"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b7c3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Fiamate is the most experienced quarterback on the roster, and he'll look to make the most out of his final season. In 2024, he showed that he had good processing and got the ball out quickly, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1703704"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b81c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Perea is the leading receiver for the Pirates, and he'll look to build on his breakout performance in 2024. He has good size, can line up as a boundary receiver, and has the necessary wiggle to move inside and be a slot receiver. He'll likely get safeties shaded in his directions this season, but he's a player to watch for Cyprus and looks to lead the team in receiving this upcoming season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1703710"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b862"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lorton looks to improve on a good season and is a returning starter for the secondary. He's an active player who has good instincts and finds his way to the ball. He shows good tackling form and will look to help anchor a revamped secondary. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1703726"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b8a3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Garlitz is the leader of this defense and will anchor on the back end. He shows good closing speed, covers good ground, has physicality to his game and is a player with good instincts. He'll look to lead the defense to key stops this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1692854"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b8e0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Brunt is arguably the best overall player for the Pirates and made an early contribution as a freshman last year. He'll look to build on last season, and he's gotten bigger and stronger this offseason. He shows a good first step, has a good speed rush, and does a good job of shedding his blocks. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Granger Lancers:<br>2024 record: 5-5<br><br>2025 Key Games:<br>Friday, August 15- at Orem<br>Saturday, August 30- at Skyline (ID)<br>Friday, September 5- Hillcrest<br>The Lancers open the season at Orem and a tough road game in Idaho, and then a short week with Hillcrest right after. These three games will set the tone for the season. If they can win two of those games, that should set them up for the remainder of the season. <br><br>2025 Hardest Games:<br>Friday, October 10- West<br>Friday, October 17- at West Jordan<br>The Lancers end the season with back-to-back tough games. They get West at home, and end the season going to West Jordan. Those two games could decide the region winner.<br><br>2025 Outlook:<br>The Lancers return a good group of players and have a potential upgrade at the quarterback position. They feature returning players at the skilled position, and the defense is set up to carry this team again. If the Lancers can go 2-2 after the first four games, it should be considered a success. The middle part of the schedule is filled with winnable games, and then they have the tough end to the season. The Lancers will be fighting for Region 4 supremacy.<br><br>Key Players:<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1697594"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b91d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Griffin comes in from Arizona and has been announced as the starter for the upcoming season. He has good size and frame for the position. Griffin has a good delivery with quick processing and showcases good ball placement. The new signal caller to the state will look to climb the ranks in the rankings and is primed for a huge season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1207664"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b95a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Fifita returns for his final season and will be the bellcow for this offense. He shows good patience behind the line, has the necessary vision to locate the late-developing crease, and has the quick burst to get to that hole before it closes. Fifita does a good job of getting small through the first line and will seek to get to the edge where he can utilize his speed and elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["402747"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b996"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The talented chess piece returns for his final season and should be used all over the field for the Lancers. Figiel is the leading receiver from a year ago, and he displays great twitchiness and the ability to create with the ball in his hands. He should be used in motion, orbit screens, jet sweeps, and in the slot where he can get a free release. He should have an exceptional season ahead. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1683710"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130b9d1"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kasitati is an exceptional playmaker, and he'll look to continue to impact the game with every chance he gets. As a defensive back, he shows good hip fluidity, has good instincts and closing speed, and showcases his athleticism when in the secondary. He broke out last year and looks to continue his ascension for the Lancers. He's a playmaker and a difference maker. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1631154"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130ba0c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Eteaki is an exciting cover corner with good hips and speed to stick to receivers. He does a good job of making a play on the ball and showcases good ball skills and the ability to undercut a play and come up with key turnovers and deflections. He's primed for a fantastic season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1558579"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130ba47"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kinikini is a force along the defensive front. He constantly creates pressures and double teams, as he's too quick and strong for most offensive linemen. He's a player who wrecks havoc on an offensive line, and he is primed for a huge season and looks to better his 16 sacks from a year ago. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["853028"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130ba85"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Pili is the running mate of Kinikini, and the dynamic duo causes chaos. Pili is quick off the line, shows a good burst, good bend at the hips, and closing speed to go along with good physicality to his game. The opposing offensive line can only choose to double one player; therefore, whoever gets single-covered will feast in this defensive scheme. Pili is set up for a double-digit sack season ahead. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hillcrest Huskies<br>2024 record: 1-8<br><br>2025 Key Games:<br>Friday, August 15- at Logan<br>Friday, August 22- Union<br>Friday, August 29- Cottonwood<br>If the Huskies can open the season by winning two of these games, that should be a success as the following four-game stretch is simply brutal.<br><br>2025 Hardest Games:<br>Friday, September 5- at Granger<br>Friday, September 12- Hunter<br>Friday, September 19- West<br>Friday, September 26- at West Jordan<br>The month of September is a brutal stretch for the Huskies; if they can keep it close in any of these games, it should be considered a win. Tough to see them getting more than one win in that stretch. <br><br>2025 Outlook:<br>The Huskies make the jump from 4A to 5A, after a subpar season. It's tough to see them making an impact in Region 4, but they have some winnable games on their schedule.<br><br>Key Players:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1148448"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130bacb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Houston is their best player and will be leaned on this year to carry the load. The dual-threat signal caller does a good job of stressing defenses. When his first read isn't there and his safety valve isn't an option, he takes off and moves the chains with his legs. Houston is an exceptional runner and led the team in rushing last year with over 450 yards. He does a good job of taking deep shots as a passer when necessary, and the dynamic dual-threat signal caller will look to carry his team this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1692849"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68685e130bb09"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Batimana was a pleasant surprise last year as a freshman and made an immediate impact. The two-way player was a standout on both sides. Batimana will have to continue his trajectory if the Huskies are to find any success. He is a twitchy athlete with good hip sink and overall speed, he moves well and is good with the ball in his hands, as an offensive weapon, you want to get him in motion where he can get free releases and get moving so he can make defenders miss, it's a big season upcoming for him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>That was our first look at Region 4.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->