Jaylaen Higgins is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Xavier Prep for AZPreps365.com

PHOENIX -- Ana Matuz took three steps back to pass and connected with Evie Mass on a go-route for a 65-yard touchdown. That was the first play of the game. It was proven quickly that Westwood had no answer for Xavier’s explosive offense. 

The Xavier Prep Gators bulldozed the Westwood Warriors Thursday night, 70-0, continuing their undefeated start to the flag football season. 

The quarterback for the Gators, Ana Matuz completed 17 of 22 passes for 256 yards and 10 touchdowns. She connected with four different receivers for scores. Freshman Evie Maas led the way with four touchdown receptions, while seniors Imani Campbell added three and Gigi Bulkley and Cooper Hidalgo each caught one. All 29 Xavier players saw action in the victory. 

Head coach Matthew Reum said the plan from the opening snap was to attack with the deep ball.

“We knew based on what we’d seen from them in previous games that we could exploit them deep,” Reum said. “We were very confident in Ana at quarterback and with Evie on that route that we’d be able to get a quick score and set the tone for the rest of the game.” 

The Gators scored on every possession, moving the ball with precision while also shutting down Westwood’s offense, intercepting it twice. The Warriors never advanced past midfield. 

Campbell credited the team’s preparation and play-calling for her three touchdowns.“Our coaches read the defense really well and put us in the right position,” Campbell said.“Then our quarterback, Ana, just placed the ball in the perfect spot for me to make the play.” 

On one of her scores, Campbell executed a post-corner route after recognizing the defense shading inside.“The corner and high safety were playing in, so by breaking out, they couldn’t make it to the pylon in time,” Campbell said. 

Bulkley, who also found the endzone, said the win was the product of weeks of work on the practice field.“It just means a lot to me,” Bulkley said.“We put in so much work and effort, so seeing it pay off on the field, with us scoring on every possession, means a lot.” 

The victory highlighted Xavier’s depth and versatility. Bulkley noted that the players are able to show how they can all move and be different players on the field. This team is very fortunate and blessed to have a lot of talent from top to bottom. 

For coach Reum, the lopsided score wasn’t as important as building consistency.“To score on every offensive possession was really fun to watch, but we know this isn’t the toughest opponent we’ll face,” Reum said.“We’ll appreciate it for 24 hours, then move on.”

The Gators (4-0) will turn their attention to St. Mary’s High School, which is still looking for its first win through games. 

“We’re going to take this tape, dissect it and use it as a springboard,” Reum said.