The 2025 Utah high school football season continues with a non-conference battle between the Payson Lions (0-2) and the Kearns Cougars (1-1) on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Both teams are still trying to define their identities early in the season: Payson has leaned on a prolific passing attack but is still searching for its first win, while Kearns looks to build momentum after a strong rushing performance in their home opener. This clash at Kearns High School promises to be a test of strength vs. speed.
Game Details
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Matchup: Payson (UT) @ Kearns (UT)
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Date & Time: 8/29/2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: Kearns High School, Kearns, UT
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
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Payson Lions
The Lions have started 0-2, but their high-powered passing game has made them dangerous. QB Trevyn Wall leads the state with 421.5 passing yards per game, connecting frequently with WR David Fullmer (147 receiving yards per game). RB Hogan Bates adds balance on the ground with nearly 80 rushing yards per game. Defensively, LB Adrian Enriquez-Barahona leads with 14 tackles per game, while DE Cade Muir provides pressure with 1.3 sacks per contest. To finally secure a win, Payson must find more consistency in the second half after strong first-quarter showings.
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2025 Record: 0-2
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National Rank: #3,904
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State Rank (UT): #71
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Key to Win: Keep the passing game rolling and avoid defensive breakdowns against Kearns’ rushing attack.
Main Squad:
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#3 Trevyn Wall – QB
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#9 David Fullmer – WR
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#32 Hogan Bates – RB
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#21 Adrian Enriquez-Barahona – LB
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#53 Cade Muir – DL
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#17 Connor Neilsen – WR/DB
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#8 Jaxon Hatch – WR
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#44 Bryson Kay – LB
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#6 Kaleb Nielson – DB
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#70 Tanner Holt – OL/DL
Kearns Cougars
Kearns enters Week 3 at 1-1, powered by a ground-heavy offense led by RB Javier Garcia, who is averaging 100.5 rushing yards per game. QB Manuel Deegan has been efficient when called upon, throwing for 110.5 yards per game, while WR Kendrick Pisi adds 61 receiving yards per game. The offensive line, anchored by Ayden Mitchell (10 pancake blocks), has been a bright spot. On defense, LB Karim Bustos and DL Vai Angilau provide toughness in the trenches. To win, the Cougars will need to slow down Payson’s passing attack while dominating possession with their run game.
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2025 Record: 1-1
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National Rank: #5,842
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State Rank (UT): #84
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Key to Win: Establish the run early, control time of possession, and limit Payson’s deep passing plays.
Main Squad:
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#7 Javier Garcia – RB
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#13 Manuel Deegan – QB
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#4 Kendrick Pisi – WR
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#2 Karim Bustos – LB
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#51 Vai Angilau – DL
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#28 Noah Calata – RB
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#56 Ayden Mitchell – OL
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#5 Darius Alofipo – DB
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#10 Malakai Sua – WR/DB
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#65 Isaac Tapusoa – OL/DL
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | UT Rank | Overall | PF | PA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payson | 3,904 | 71 | 0-2 | 69 | 78 |
| Kearns | 5,842 | 84 | 1-1 | 55 | 40 |
Abu Sayem is a sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing stories about high school athletics. He is passionate about celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of young athletes.
