Page lost against Payson back in September of 2024, and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Friday. The Sand Devils lost 47-21 to the Longhorns. The Sand Devils were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 30-6.
When it comes to explaining why Page lost, don't look at Joseph Benally. Despite the final result, he rushed for 82 yards and one TD on only 11 carries, and also threw for 217 yards and one touchdown.
Page didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. In fact, those interceptions all came courtesy of defensive juggernaut Andrew Cummings.
Payson's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Nolan Keeney, who rushed for 57 yards and a pair of scores on only six carries, and also threw for 126 yards and a pair of touchdowns on only 11 passes. Those 57 rushing yards gave Keeney a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Bert Scheer, who gained 134 total yards and a touchdown.
Page's defeat dropped their record down to 1-1. As for Payson, they have started the season off flawlessly and has a 2-0 record to show for it.
Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Page will square off against Show Low at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Payson, they will venture away from home to take on San Tan Foothills at 7:00 p.m. on Friday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps