The Campo Verde Coyotes have wasted no time proving themselves as one of the most dangerous teams in 5A flag football, storming out to a 5-1 start that has quickly turned heads across the state. Behind the leadership of record-holding quarterback Izzy Pap, a disruptive defense led by sack machine Payton Davis, and a surge of rising talent stepping into key roles, Campo has built a foundation that looks primed for a deep postseason run. Here are the three biggest takeaways from their impressive start to the season.
1. Izzy Pap is the real deal. It’s weird to say that the all time 5a passing yards leader is underrated, but it's the truth. The team has lived and died by her success. After starting the season with a poor performance against Highland, she has led the Coyotes to a dominant stretch, posting a QB rating of 146.38 in region play, a mark that far exceeds anyone with at least 600 passing yards.
2. Campo’s defense will be the key to their success. On paper, Campo Verde is flooded with offensive talent, from the transfers yet to play (Claire McMahon and Amaya “Chimi” Moreno) to long tenured veterans like Izzy Pap. However, Campo has been anchored by Payton Davis, current 5a sacks leader, who recently erupted for 4 sacks against Desert Edge in the Arizona Cardinals game of the week this past Thursday. All of this, despite fighting through a major hand strain that will reportedly require a second surgery.
3. Campo has a large wave of new talent, and it's not in the way you think. Yes, Claire McMahon, and Amaya “Chimi” Moreno are incredible additions to the team; however, the 2nd year leaps from Ella Mutters, and Oakley Dobratz-Blevins, as well as freshman 5-star basketball recruit, Jaiyana Bogan-Jacobs, have exceeded expectations, leading the team in interceptions, while anchoring the back line.
In conclusion, the Campo Verde Coyotes have a slew of talent, in addition to the talent that has yet to play. I expect them to steadily climb back towards a top 3 ranking by the end of the season and finish the season undefeated.
