No one expected Springville to shut down the typically high scoring Alta in the 4A semifinal state football game, ending 42-14, at Rice Eccles Stadium on Friday, November 11. The Red Devils came to play and win with clean executions, zero turnovers, a disciplined defense, and very few penalties.
Payton Kelepolo had a huge game with 33 carries, 242 yards, and a TD. Four 1-yard TDs from quarterback Jantsen Thorpe put the Red Devils over the top of the Hawks. Viliami Kolomalu is credited with 8 tackles and 2 sacks. Griffan Slavens also had 8 tackles. Cole Bowers and Jackson Murphy each contributed 7 tackles with Bradley Nicol adding 5 tackles and a sack.
Springville needs just one more win to clench the state title. The Red Devils will face East again this year, but now in the championship round. The Red Devils lost to the Leopards in last year's 4A semifinals, 42-14 — the very same score they won by on Friday.
The 4A championship game will be played at Rice Eccles Stadium on Friday, November 18, at 6:30 pm.