Week 8 of the Utah high school football season was a showcase of pure gridiron drama, featuring upsets, weather delays, and individual efforts that defined the phrase “leaving it all on the field.” From clutch overtime scores to stunning passing displays, the state was treated to a spectacular slate of games. Here is a human article compiling the top 20 most impactful performances from the week.
The Elite Individual Showcases
Some players simply could not be stopped, turning their games into personal highlights reels.
1. Kamden Lopati (QB, West): The West High senior delivered the most commanding performance of the week. In a 63-0 rout of West Jordan, the Illinois commit threw six touchdown passes and rushed for a seventh. His effortless command and steady leadership are the intangible factors elevating the Panthers, who are now averaging over 60 points in their last five games.
2. Tradon Bessinger (QB, Davis): The Boise State commit lit up the scoreboard, completing 32 of 41 passes for a massive 504 yards and five touchdowns in a 54-22 victory over Syracuse. Bessinger is a state-level statistical leader, and Week 8 was a masterclass in aerial attack.
3. Lincoln Tahi (RB, Skyridge): In the game of the week—a double-overtime thriller against rival Lone Peak—Tahi was the closer. He ran for 213 yards and scored two touchdowns, including the walk-off 16-yard score in double-overtime that secured the Falcons’ 37-34 win and an emotional move up the state rankings. This was a defining, clutch performance.
4. The Mountain Ridge Defense: Football isn’t just about offense. The Sentinels’ defense takes this spot as a collective for their performance in handing previously unbeaten Herriman its first loss (26-7). They successfully navigated storm delays and a potent running attack, proving they are a top-tier defensive unit.
The Best of the Rest: Impactful Team and Individual Efforts
The following is a curated list of standout efforts that significantly shaped the week’s results:
Week 8 was a testament to the talent and intensity in Utah high school football, setting the stage for an explosive final stretch before the playoffs begin.
If you want to see a general overview of the teams leading the state heading into the week, you can watch Utah High School Football Top 25 Entering Week 8.
