Game Preview: Desert Vista vs. Palo Verde

2012 season kicks off at 7 PM in the Barry Sollenberger Kickoff Classic at UPS

Preview: Phoenix (Az.) Desert Vista vs. Las Vegas (Nv.) Palo Verde

Notes: Kickoff is at 7 PM at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Az.

Last week: Opening game for both teams in the Barry Sollenberger Kickoff Classic.

Players to Watch: Desert Vista- senior RB Jarek Hilgers, senior DE Lorenzo Melvin, OL/DL Dylan Fischer, WR Kaleb Germinaro, OT Mitch Wehrli, QB Matt Young, S Nick Farina, DT Zack Tamburo

Palo Verde- senior RB Lee Griggs, senior RB/DB Ryan Beaulieu, senior QB Parker Rost

Keys to a Desert Vista victory: No one gave the Thunder a chance in last year's state title game versus Hamilton but DV came to UPS last year and pounded the rock against a very good defensive line. With great size returning and facing a team with a smaller roster, expect Coach Hinds to use heavy doses of thunder, Jarek Hilgers and lightning, Kaleb Germinaro.

Keys to a Palo Verde victory: Palo Verde went 11-1 last year, losing to Bishop Gorman in the state title game. Most people wanted Gorman back in the game and the PV players, coaches and fans are wondering why critics think they aren't "worthy" of playing in this game. Expect them to come in and play with a big chip on the shoulder. PV rushed for over 3,000 yards last year and return their top two rushers in Lee Griggs and Ryan Beaulieu, expect them to try and control the clock with a strong rushing attack.