Written by: Marlowe Hereford
After winning five state titles in eight years in the 4A classification, Skyline makes its return to 5A this fall for the first time since the 2015-16 school year.
The Grizzlies concluded its final 4A season of football with a 35-31 loss to District 6 foe Hillcrest in the semifinals of the state playoffs last November, snapping their three-year state title win streak. Hillcrest went on to be 4A state runners-up.
Experience returns on both sides of the ball for Skyline, however, as the Grizzlies prepare to rejoin the 5A classification. That experience is particularly evident on the offensive line.
"We are a spread team that tries to utilize our talents and get the ball to our playmakers," head coach Scott Berger said. "The players we have returning have significant game experience and we are hoping this will carry over into the season."
Among Skyline's returning players are junior Zyan Crockett (First Team All-conference wide receiver), senior Kaeson Smith (First Team All-conference defensive lineman) and senior Corbin Lancaster (First Team All-conference linebacker).
Defensively, the Grizzlies are aiming to eliminate penalties and build on varsity experience gained last season at linebacker, defensive backs and the defensive line.
"We have many players who saw significant playing time last season and we will continue to be a 4-3 defense with the ability to play coverage and use pressure," Berger said.
Skyline begins its season Aug. 31 versus Morgan (Utah) at the ICCU Dome (formerly Holt Arena) as part of the annual Rocky Mountain Rumble. The Grizzlies will play their first conference game Sept. 6 at Blackfoot.