For Gilbert Mesquite, which has been shut out the first two weeks of the season, the Wildcats face an uphill battle against a team that has not given up a point so far this year.

For Chandler, in what is turning out to be a wide open year for big school football, it is a chance to continue building a resume for a chance at the big prize at the end of the year.

The Wolves routed Yuma Kofa and Phoenix Maryvale by a combined 135-0, ending any speculation on how Chandler reloaded after losing key skill players to graduation. Darell Garretson is back at quarterback, leading what appears to be another potent Wolves offense. Garretson committed to go to San Jose State earlier this summer. Chandler would like to position itself as a contender with Hamilton having faltered and other schools jockeying for a spot.

Meanwhile, Mesquite is simply trying to get its offense going. No points against Mesa Red Mountain and city-rival Highland has left the Wildcats without any momentum or confidence. But Mesquite is hoping to gain more experience for its young guys against top-notch talent, like that of Chandler.