Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2008 | 11:30 a.m.
Cheyenne didn't disappointment last week in its first week atop the Home News weekly top 10 rankings. A 56-12 victory against Canyon Springs showed the Desert Shields have more than their share of talented players, especially on offense.
But, how will those players hold up this week against No. 2 Palo Verde in the Northwest Division opener for both schools?
Cheyenne coach Charles Anthony has a 35-10 record in five years with the Desert Shields, but five of those setbacks have come against Palo Verde. Cheyenne's only win was a 22-14 triumph in the 2006 regular season, but Palo Verde avenged the loss with a 37-0 victory later that fall in the Sunset Regional title game.
Things could be different this year, Anthony said.
"The key for us this year is that everyone is healthy," the coach said. "It seems like someone is always injured every year we play them."
1. Cheyenne (3-0): The Desert Shields will face their biggest test Friday against Northwest Division foe Palo Verde.
2. Palo Verde (3-0): Could be No. 1 next week.
3. Bishop Gorman (3-1): Gorman is still the defending state champions. It should roll through the Southwest Division undefeated.
4. Silverado (3-0): The 'Hawks have only given up 19 points in three games. Defense wins championships, right?
5. Las Vegas (2-1): A loss to Utah-power Pine View last week only makes Wildcats stronger in a weak Northeast Division. The Wildcats shouldn't be challenged again until the second round of playoffs.
6. Arbor View (3-0): The fourth-year school continues to impress. Whether or not the victories continue in the tough Northwest Division is still up in the air.
7. Del Sol (2-1): The Dragons looked awful in being blown out by Palo Verde, but don't count them out. Remember, it's still September.
8. Spring Valley (2-0): Grizzlies should be undefeated Sept. 26 when they meet Bishop Gorman in a Southwest Division showdown.
9. Centennial (2-1): A loss last week to No. 4 Silverado is nothing to be ashamed about.
10. Legacy (3-0): Legacy squeaks into the top 10 as the Northwest Division's fifth team in the rankings. It's shame one won't make the playoffs.
Dropped out: No. 10 Basic; the Wolves lost to Chaparral.
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