Patrick Snyder is an ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Marcos de Niza High School for AZPreps365.com 

TEMPE -- Marcos de Niza’s strong coaching and players mindset has led them to a 9-1 regular season and a powerful playoff run.

A coaching philosophy instilled among its players, a well-balanced offense and strong defensive play on the field allowed the Padres to advance to the third round of the 4A playoffs, as multiple Padres players received All-Region and Tempe All-City honors. 

Throughout the season Marcos’ head coach Anthony Figueroa has imprinted the ‘staircase’  mindset  into his players. Where the players don’t focus on the entire staircase (the entire season) but instead focus on the individual stair (the next game). 

This mindset has allowed for Marcos’ players to prepare for the task at hand, which is winning the next game and not dwelling on past victories or losses. 

“It’s just like any step of a staircase, we focus on that step that we are taking at that time,” Marcos’ lineman Nikolasi Tonga’uiha said. “We don’t focus on the future, nor do we ponder on the past, we just get ready for this week.”

Throughout the regular season and playoffs, Marcos  has had a well-balanced offense, creating a good mix of exciting pass and run plays.

In 11 games this season, Marcos has found an effective, balanced offensive attack. Averaging 239.8 passing yards per game, 230.2 yards on the ground and 65 touchdowns (33 passing, 32 rushing). 

“If you look at it, it’s a healthy balance between running and passing,” coach Figueroa said. “Whatever has the hot hand at that moment, that’s what we’re going to go with.”

Marcos has also had a strong defensive presence on the field throughout the season.

The Padres defense has racked up some impressive numbers including, 43.5 sacks, 97 quarterback hurries, 103.5 tackles for loss, 18 interceptions, and seven fumble recoveries. All these stats are at or well above the national average. 

Marcos finished the regular season 9-1with a 4A Black Canyon region sweep. This led to Marcos receiving seven first-team All-Region honors, six second-team All-Region honors, 11 All-Region honorable mentions, and seven Tempe All-City honors. 

The awards also included three All-Region Player of the Year awards for quarterback Jaeden Lott, wide receiver Alejandro Gomez, and defensive lineman Nikolasi Tonga’uiha. 

Coach Figueroa also received the 4A Black Canyon region Coach of the Year.

“We got a lot of guys that put in a lot of work,” offensive coordinator Keesean Cox said. “Coaches and players have really poured their hearts into this and that’s been evident by the way we’ve been able to come out and execute.” 

Marcos will continue to add to their season stats and honors as the 4A playoffs continue.