Brendan Sodell is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Central High School for AZPreps365.com

PHOENIX -- South Mountain started off its contest versus Sunnyslope in a near-perfect way. Alas, the momentum was short-lived in the Jaguars' 30-12 defeat.

After losing the coin toss and starting on defense, South Mountain senior Melvin Mclaurin forced a fumble on the game's first play. Following the turnover, senior runninig back Jaylen Huckaby galloped 40 yards for a touchdown on the Jags' first offensive play. Special teams missed the point after try, but South Mountain still had an early 6-0 lead.

The Jaguars looked to maintain the momentum from last Friday's win against Tucson High Magnet School and start a season 3-1 for the first time since 2017. Unfortunately, their short-lived momentum did not last. Sunnyslope bounced back from its early mistake and won a one-sided 30-12 game.

 

South Mountain's Jaylen Huckaby rushes for a first down (Brendan Sodell/AZPreps365)

After that inital turnover, Sunnyslope embarked on a seven-minute touchdown drive to take the lead, 7-6.

South Mountain recovered to regain the lead, 12-7. Senior wide receiver Isaiah G. hubbart caught a 10-yard scoring pass to regain the lead, but South Mountain once again failed to convert the point after. 

Sunnyslope's slow-paced offense began to take control in the second quarter. The Vikings methodicall marched down the field and scored two field goals. At the half, Sunnyslope held a narrow lead, 13-12.

South Mountain opened the second half on offense, but was once again unable to generate a drive. Sunnyslope forced a punt and took advantage, leading to an 11-yard touchdown catch from wide receiver Dillon Dwiggins. 

The Jaguars attempted to kick-start their offense via Huckaby's rushing talent, but Sunnyslope's defense was prepared. Huckaby gained zero yards on three consecutive rushing plays and once again punted. The Vikings quickly moved downfiel and kicked its third field goal, a 45-yarder.

South Mountain subbed in anotehr quarterback, but on his second snap the Jags fumbled. Sunnyslope recovered and scored a touchdown, bringing its lead to 18. On South Mountain's ensuing drive another turnover, an interception, led to yet another Sunnyslope score.

The Jaguars, after scoring in the game's first 30 seconds, were held scoreless the rest of the evening. South Mountain falls to 2-2 and will head to Scottsdale to face fellow 2-2 school Notre Dame Prep next week.