Gila Herald Staff Reports
THATCHER — Momentum is powerful in October football, and the Thatcher Eagles are riding a high-octane wave into the final stretch of the regular season.
On Friday, Oct. 23, the Eagles put on a masterclass on both sides of the ball, marching into Sabino and finishing with a dominant 37–13 win. True to form, Thatcher’s ground game dictated the tempo, racking up 345 yards behind a relentless offensive line and explosive backfield execution.
While Sabino tried to find a foothold through the air, Thatcher’s defense slammed the door shut, limiting the opposition while the offense methodically chewed up clock and yardage. The Eagles’ balanced attack kept the chains moving all night, proving once again why they remain one of the region’s most disciplined and physical squads.
Tufden Taylor led the rushing attack with 157 yards on 14 carries. But right behind him, Josh Jones added 130 yards on 10 carries and two TDs. Freshman Willie Dunklin also got in on the scoring action, punching it in twice on six carries for 30 yards. Junior Jax Shupe also found the end zone.
Filling in for the injured Kase Palmer for the third straight game, sophomore quarterback Colt Daley went 5 for 8 for 63 yards and one interception. Palmer broke his wrist at the end of the Safford game and will miss the rest of the season.
On defense, linebacker Ethan Hayes was a beast all over the field, with 9 solo tackles and 11 total to lead Thatcher.
Looking Ahead: Coolidge Comes to Town
With the Sabino win safely in the rearview mirror, Thatcher (4-1 region, 7-2 overall) returns home to the Gila Valley this Friday, Oct. 30, for a massive regular-season finale against Coolidge (2-2 region, 5-4 overall). Thatcher is second in the 3A East behind Pusch Ridge and will finish there no matter the result Friday. The Eagles are currently No. 4 in the statewide 3A rankings.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. As the Eagles look to put the finishing touches on another stellar regular season before turning their sights toward the state tournament bracket, expect a packed house in Thatcher as the community rallies behind the green and white under the Friday night lights.
