The CHSAA Football Quarterfinals showcased thrilling matchups across the Class 5A, 4A, and 3A playoffs, culminating in dramatic victories for several teams. Here are the key results from each class.
Class 5A Quarterfinals
Cherry Creek vs. Fairview
Top-seeded Cherry Creek defeated eighth-seeded Fairview 49-28. Senior running back Jayden Fox shined with four rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Brady Vodicka added three touchdown passes. Despite Fairview’s efforts, which included recovering three onside kicks, Cherry Creek secured their spot in the semifinals. They will face Valor Christian next week.
Valor Christian vs. Legend
Fifth-seeded Valor Christian edged out fourth-seeded Legend 31-30. Junior cornerback Brandon Wright’s end-zone breakup halted Legend’s two-point conversion attempt as time expired. The Eagles advanced, thanks to two touchdown runs from Channing Fox and pivotal defensive plays. Valor will next take on Cherry Creek.
Ralston Valley vs. Mullen
Second-seeded Ralston Valley earned a convincing 41-14 victory over tenth-seeded Mullen. Senior quarterback Zeke Andrews contributed four touchdowns, leading Ralston to their third semifinal appearance in four years. Mullen’s attempts to narrow the gap fell short, as they finished the season with an 8-5 record.
Mountain Vista vs. Arvada West
Third-seeded Mountain Vista triumphed over sixth-seeded Arvada West with a score of 36-21. Junior Hudson Modrzewski was exceptional, scoring all five touchdowns for the Golden Eagles. This victory marks a historic moment, as Mountain Vista advances to their first 5A semifinal.
Class 4A Quarterfinals
Dakota Ridge vs. Pueblo West
The top-ranked Dakota Ridge Eagles took down eighth-seeded Pueblo West 42-14. Senior Landon Kalsbeck scored two early touchdowns, setting the pace for Dakota Ridge’s dominant performance. They will face Heritage in the semifinals.
Heritage vs. Durango
Fifth-seeded Heritage won a close matchup against fourth-seeded Durango, finishing 45-36. Heritage unleashed a powerful second half, scoring 35 points. This victory marked their first semifinal appearance in 16 years.
Montrose vs. Monarch
Second-seeded Montrose overcame seventh-seeded Monarch in a commanding 56-27 victory. Senior Elijah Womack and junior Cade Saunders each recorded three touchdowns. Montrose advances to the semifinals for the third consecutive year.
Palmer Ridge vs. Broomfield
Third-seeded Palmer Ridge defeated sixth-seeded Broomfield 45-27, with junior Zak Crisler scoring touchdowns both rushing and receiving. This win sends Palmer Ridge to face Montrose in the semifinals.
Class 3A Quarterfinals
Windsor vs. Pueblo South
Top-seeded Windsor secured a place in the semifinals by beating ninth-seeded Pueblo South 56-14. Senior Adrian Czyszczon was notable with three rushing touchdowns. Windsor’s defense held strong, allowing only two touchdowns from Pueblo South.
Holy Family vs. Mead
Fifth-seeded Holy Family emerged victorious against fourth-seeded Mead, winning 34-26. Senior kicker Oliver Hansen’s field goals and a late interception helped secure the win. Holy Family advances to the semifinals for the second time in three years.
Pomona vs. Lutheran
Second-seeded Pomona defeated tenth-seeded Lutheran in a nail-biting match, winning 30-27. Junior quarterback Tucker Ingersoll and senior receiver Sebastian Reyes connected for two touchdowns. Pomona will move forward to face Palisade in the next round.
Palisade vs. Roosevelt
Third-seeded Palisade sneaked past sixth-seeded Roosevelt, finishing 21-14. Senior Dylon Larson threw a pivotal 79-yard touchdown pass, securing Palisade’s first semifinal appearance since 2018.
- Next week matchups:
- Cherry Creek vs. Valor Christian
- Ralston Valley vs. Mountain Vista
- Dakota Ridge vs. Heritage
- Montrose vs. Palmer Ridge
- Windsor vs. Holy Family
- Pomona vs. Palisade
For more insights and updates on the CHSAA playoffs, stay tuned to El-Balad.
