Outlook: One play changed everything for the Falcons.
Late in their 27-20 win over Safford last week, Falcons quarterback Jason Fairfield was hit on a rollout pass play. The hit broke the tibia and fibula in Fairfield’s right leg.
“We had to get one more first down to keep the ball out of their hands,” Falcons coach (and Jason’s father) Jim Fairfield said. “I know (Jason’s) physical pain is a lot worse, but it hurts me, emotionally.”
The Falcons will turn to senior Kail Brinton, who has rushed for 616 yards and seven touchdowns from his halfback position, to play quarterback the rest of the way. Brinton has played some quarterback this season and was a quarterback as a freshman.
“No one knows how the new quarterback is going to handle things, how they’ll withstand the pressure,” Jim Fairfield said. “Kail is a senior, he’s been at it a long, long time. He’ll do a good job.”
Winslow is also using a backup quarterback. Sophomore Matt Smith has guided the Bulldogs to four straight wins after starter Art Gonzalez was injured in an Oct. 6 game against Eagar Round Valley.
Fountain Hills vs. Winslow
When: 5 p.m.
Address: Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa
Records: Fountain Hills 8-3, Winslow 10-1
