Rome Kadi is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Notre Dame Prep for AZPreps365.com

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – The No. 19-ranked Notre Dame Prep Saints are gearing up for their toughest challenge of the season when they face No. 4-ranked Brophy on the road Friday night.

The Saints began their season in dominant fashion, winning all four of their games. They have outscored their opponents 172-52 in that span. Head football coach George Prelock attributes their undefeated streak to the strong camaraderie within the team.

“I think it’s playing for one another and playing like we’re a family,” Prelock said. “I think we’ve done a really good job doing that.” 

Senior quarterback Dylan Rarden emphasized the team’s focus as it prepares for this crucial game.

“The main thing is just focusing on [taking things] week by week and [doing] what we’re supposed to be doing every week to get the job done,” Rarden said.

On the other side, the Broncos have outscored their opponents 131-62 during their four-game winning streak. It’s clear that both teams have high-powered offenses and stout defenses. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg.

Notre Dame Prep and Brophy have conjured up a fierce rivalry within their athletic programs, and both football teams are at the center. This season’s contest will be the fifth consecutive year the teams play each other, with both teams winning two of the past four matchups. 

Prelock acknowledged how important this game is to his team and what needs to be done to win in a hostile environment.  

“I think [the] kids get excited for this game. What you do is just focus on the game plan and maximizing each rep at practice to ensure that we’re ready to go Friday night,” Prelock said.

He also acknowledged the challenges that come with facing the only 6A team on the Saints’ schedule. 

“It’s going to be difficult. They have a talented team. Coach [Jason] Jewell does a great job over there, along with his coaching staff,” Prelock said. “We’re just trying to take it one play at a time. I’m not really worried about the end of the game. I’m worried about the next rep at practice, the next practice we have, and then that first play of the game. That's what it comes down to. Whatever happens in that game, we’ll react to it and adjust accordingly.” 

Senior running back and middle linebacker Jason Samis described how the Saints need to start the game. 

“We need to come out strong. [It doesn’t] matter who they are, we have to come out strong against any opponent we have,” Samis said. “It’s going to be a big game for us.” 

Despite how evenly matched the teams are, there is one important factor that could affect the outcome of this game. Prelock said Cooper Perry, the No. 1-ranked wide receiver in Arizona, has been dealing with a stomach bug this week. He missed practice Monday and Tuesday and was sent home early Wednesday, leaving his status for Friday's game uncertain.

Perry, an Oregon commit, has racked up 22 receptions for 328 yards and eight touchdowns this season, making him a vital player for the Saints.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Friday at Central High School in Phoenix.