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Superior’s offense sets up for a play in Friday’s Homecoming game against Ft. Thomas.
At first glance, the No. 2-ranked Superior football team’s 72 – 26 victory on its Homecoming against Ft. Thomas last Friday looked as dominant as any of the other Panthers’ performances so far this season.
But sometimes looks can be deceiving.
At least, that’s according to head coach Ryan Palmer, who saw enough to know his team was not at its best versus the Apaches, despite reaching a season-high in points scored.
“I didn’t think it was our strongest performance,” Palmer told the Superior Sun. “It goes along with any Homecoming week; there are a lot of distractions and other things going on.”
“We had some missed assignments on the defensive side,” he continued. “Overall, we did have some strong points, including our passing game. We were able to get to the ball into our playmakers’ hands.”
Superior’s defense was ready for the play in Friday night’s win over Ft. Thomas.
Even at less than their best, the Panthers’ are still pretty good, as evidenced by their seven forced turnovers, including a pick six by sophomore Steven Ybarra, who also scored a rushing touchdown on offense.
Senior quarterback Nicolaus Cruz threw for four touchdowns and rushed for three more as he continued to look every bit the Player of the Year candidate he’s been all season. Senior Edgar Galindo added a rushing touchdown before exiting the game with an injury. Marcos Bueno and Austin Navarrette each had two receiving touchdowns in the win.
The Panthers have three games left in the regular season, including this Friday on the road against a surprising Duncan team.
“We need to continue to improve and not become complacent,” Palmer said. “It’s a long road to get where we want to be and if we’re not improving every day that road gets even tougher.”
“These kids (have the) experience,” he added. “(They) will continue to work together to overcome each obstacle on our path.”
At second glance, it appears the only obstacle in their path could be themselves. Palmer is aiming to eliminate it.
Friday’s kickoff at Duncan is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Andrew Luberda began writing for Copper Area News Publishers (CANP) in February 2013 after working 15 years in Healthcare Financial Management. Andy covers sports for 11 high schools. His stories are published in Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner and Superior Sun, in addition to the San Tan Valley Daily PRSS and CopperArea websites. Additionally, he has written human interest stories and business profiles. In May 2012, he earned an AAS in Sports Management at Central Arizona College before graduating with a BS in Communication from Arizona State University in 2014. He and his wife, Kelli, have three sons – AJ, Kyle, and Kade.
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