Game Details - Football

Salem Hills is peaking at the perfect time heading into Thursday's 4A first-round playoff matchup against Mountain View. The 12th-seeded SkyHawks (6-3, 3-2 Region 8) carry a three-game winning streak into the postseason, outscoring opponents 132-42 during that stretch. Their offense has been explosive in recent weeks, culminating in a dominant 48-7 victory over Bonneville in the regular-season finale. Salem Hills already owns a decisive win over the 21st-seeded Bruins (3-6, 1-4) this season, having defeated Mountain View 42-7 on Oct. 9 in Region 8 play. The SkyHawks finished third in their region while Mountain View placed fifth. Quarterback Ryder Hales directs Salem Hills' balanced attack, having thrown for 2,312 yards and 18 touchdowns this season. His primary targets include Peyton Higginson (33 catches, 464 yards, 5 TDs), Gordon Wilson (27 receptions, 448 yards), and Joe Hughes (25 catches, 323 yards, 4 TDs). The SkyHawks complement their passing game with a strong rushing attack led by Treygan Fusselman (534 yards, 4 TDs) and Benjamin Staheli (478 yards, 6 TDs). Hales has contributed five rushing touchdowns, making him a dual-threat concern for opposing defenses. Defensively, Salem Hills is anchored by linebacker Sam Bradford, who leads the team with 101 tackles. The secondary has been opportunistic with four players — Peyton Higginson, Jake Polson, Benjamin Staheli and Gordon Wilson — recording two interceptions each. Steven Taylor leads the pass rush with five sacks. Mountain View counters with quarterback Tate Johnson, who has thrown for 14 touchdowns against just two interceptions. His favorite target is Hyrum Stafford, who has hauled in 10 touchdown receptions while adding five rushing scores. Briggy Moses has contributed four touchdown catches for the Bruins' offense. The Bruins' defense is led by Ratu Malungahu, Jude Harris and Carter Trapnell. The winner advances to face fifth-seeded Provo (6-4) in the second round on Oct. 31. Provo defeated both teams during the regular season, including a 49-25 win over Salem Hills and a 69-7 victory against Mountain View.