The Corner Canyon Chargers proved once again why they dominate high school football in Utah, securing their third consecutive 6A state title with a 35–20 victory over Lone Peak at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Powered by a career performance from senior running back Weston Briggs, the Chargers delivered a second-half surge that sealed their place at the top of the state.
Briggs Leads the Charge With Historic Four-Touchdown Night
Briggs turned in one of the greatest championship performances in Utah prep history, rushing for 170 yards and four touchdowns, including 155 yards in the second half alone. His four scores tied the all-time Utah record for most rushing touchdowns in a state title game.
“Best running back in the nation,” quarterback Helaman Casuga said, praising Briggs’ leadership both on and off the field.
Head coach Eric Kjar became emotional discussing his star senior.
“He’s been the heart and soul of our team… I’m going to miss him,” Kjar said.
Lone Peak Controls First Half Before Chargers Respond
Lone Peak entered the title game confident after defeating Corner Canyon earlier in the season. The Knights opened Thursday’s matchup with a powerful ground attack, averaging 7.21 yards per carry in the first half. Running back Tate Barney and quarterback Kepa Niumeitolu combined for 112 rushing yards as Lone Peak took a 17–14 halftime lead.
But everything changed after halftime.
Coach Kjar emphasized one adjustment: physicality.
“We had to be tougher up front,” he said. “In the second half we were much better, just tremendous toughness.”
Corner Canyon’s defense responded, holding Lone Peak to just 37 rushing yards after halftime—a dramatic turnaround that fueled the comeback.
Clutch Defensive Stand Seals the Championship
Even with the Chargers surging, Lone Peak had one final chance.
Trailing 28–20 late in the fourth quarter, the Knights marched to the 4-yard line and faced a critical fourth-down play. Niumeitolu forced a throw into coverage, and the pass fell incomplete—ending Lone Peak’s hopes of stealing the championship.
Corner Canyon added a final touchdown moments later to secure the 35–20 win.
Kjar Makes History With Seventh State Championship
The victory marks Coach Eric Kjar’s seventh career state title, moving him into second place all-time among Utah high school coaches. Six of those championships have come during Corner Canyon’s remarkable eight-year run—one of the most dominant stretches in state football history.
Kjar credits the consistency to what happens behind the scenes:
“It’s not about the plays in the game—it’s about what you do in practice, what you do in the weight room. That’s everything.”
Chargers’ Season Not Over Yet
Corner Canyon will continue playing beyond the state tournament, with the team set to face St. Frances (Maryland) in the upcoming OT7 national championship. Details of the matchup will be announced soon.
