Game Details - Football

Cedar Valley and Layton meet for the first time Friday when the Aviators host the Lancers in a 6A first-round playoff matchup between teams eager to make their mark. The 16th-seeded Aviators (3-6) welcome the 17th-seeded Lancers (3-7) in what shapes up as a competitive battle between programs seeking a statement victory. The winner earns the challenge of facing top-seeded Corner Canyon in the second round. Cedar Valley enters the postseason having weathered a difficult schedule that included several lopsided defeats. The Aviators found success early in the season with victories over Olympus (14-7) and Copper Hills (27-24), showcasing their ability to compete across classifications. Layton limps into the playoffs having lost its last four games, including a 26-10 defeat to Farmington in the regular-season finale. The Lancers started strong with impressive wins over Tooele (50-7) and Northridge (21-17) before facing a series of setbacks against Region 1 opponents. Cedar Valley's offense averages 21.4 points per game. Quarterback Landon Johnson has directed the attack with 10 touchdown passes, forming a productive connection with receiver Paxon Johnson, who has hauled in three scoring strikes. Layton counters with a balanced offensive approach led by running backs JP Garlick (630 yards, three TDs) and Gavin Hurst (365 yards, five TDs). The Lancers have rotated quarterbacks this season, with Lincoln Wilcox (715 yards, five TDs) and Koen Doane (565 yards, three TDs) sharing duties. Nathan Mecham has been their primary receiving threat, hauling in 34 catches for 428 yards and five touchdowns. Defensively, the Lancers are anchored by Luke Byers, who has recorded a team-high 113 tackles. JP Garlick (56 tackles, two INTs), Gavin Hurst (44 tackles, three INTs) and Lincoln Peterson (45 tackles) provide additional support. Kicker Miles Neuteboom has been reliable with five field goals and 14 extra points. Both teams view Friday's contest as a golden opportunity to extend their seasons and gain valuable playoff experience.