FRIDAY’S GAME

Bonneville at Middleton

Bonneville is enjoying a breakout season, posting seven wins for just the third time since 1990 and advancing to the state semifinals for the first time since 1996. The Bees have never won a state title in football. Running back Trae Walker has led the Bees — both running and catching — and junior Lincoln Clayton is a threat on punt returns. Middleton has been a steady force in the 4A SIC, making its fifth playoff appearance in a row. Victor Dias and Max Foote carry the bulk of the load in Middleton’s run-focused offense. The two have combined for 2,081 yards and 27 touchdowns.

SATURDAY’S GAMES

Skyview vs. Blackfoot

Blackfoot has ended Skyview’s state playoff run the past two seasons. The Broncos are seeking their fourth state title in six years led by All-Idaho receiver Colby Pearson. Skyview finished the regular season as the second-best defense in the 4A SIC, limiting opponents to 16.9 points and 232 yards per game. The Hawks’ stout defense, in combination with a diverse offense, could help them sneak past the Broncos at Holt Arena.

Fruitland at Timberlake

Fruitland most recently played Timberlake in 2010, beating the Tigers 71-16 in a nonconference game during the regular season. The Grizzlies have won 10 games in a row this season, and have done so with the help of numerous offensive weapons. Three players — Lane LaCrone, Joe Martarano and Kris Olinger — scored for Fruitland in last week’s quarterfinal win, and at least 10 players recorded a carry or catch. Timberlake is playing in a state semifinal for the first time since 2007, when the Tigers lost 56-21 to the Grizzlies.

Marsing vs. Declo

Marsing has won two straight playoff games at home, but now hits the road to take on unbeaten Declo at Holt Arena in Pocatello. The Hornets have rarely been challenged this season, scoring more points than any other 2A team in the state with their average of 50.3 points per game. The Declo defense has posted four shutouts and boasts the stingiest defense of the remaining playoff teams (9.2 ppg).

Dietrich at Salmon River

Salmon River will need to be at its best against top-ranked and unbeaten Dietrich, which has won nine straight games in its quest to win its first state championship in football. Salmon River has won two state titles since 2007, its most recent in 2009. Last week, quarterback Leighton Vander Esch had his hand in all three of the Savages’ touchdowns, while Shepherd brothers Jimmy and Charlie each added TD catches.

Lighthouse Christian at Garden Valley

Garden Valley aims to advance to the state championship game for the second time in three seasons, but the Wolverines will have to knock out the defending state champs. Lighthouse Christian has won seven of its past eight games. Aside from losses to 1A Division I teams Butte County and Grace — the Lions have averaged 51.3 points per game with three defensive shutouts. In six of their nine wins, the Wolverines have held opponents to two TDs or less.