GMAC Tournament Showdown: Ferguson vs. Southridge — X-Factors Will Decide It All

Another must-watch matchup in the GMAC Tournament features Ferguson taking on Southridge in a game that will come down to execution, matchups, and two critical X-factors.

Ferguson has built a reputation for starting strong—and this season is no different.

Quarterback Gianna Stephens has been highly efficient, throwing for 1,283 yards and 16 touchdowns while limiting mistakes with just 4 interceptions. She’s also added 4 rushing touchdowns, proving she can extend plays and finish drives when needed.

Her top target, Victoria Holder, has been a consistent playmaker, leading the team with 394 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. Her ability to create separation and make key catches makes her the focal point of Ferguson’s passing attack.

Defensively, Ferguson brings intensity and production.

Evelyn Naranjo leads the team with 50 flag pulls, followed closely by Emily Naranjo with 48—giving Ferguson a strong presence in open-field tackling. In the secondary, Victoria Holder and Annelle Vastey have each recorded 4 interceptions, showing their ability to turn defense into offense.

On the other side, Southridge enters with a newly aquired dynamic weapon at quarterback.

Dual-threat QB Aubrey Gisbert has thrown for 968 yards with 9 touchdowns while adding the ability to impact the game with her legs. While she’s been somewhat limited in using her mobility at times, her full skill set has the potential to completely change the pace of the game.

At receiver, Shazaria Williams leads the way with 548 yards and 5 touchdowns, giving Southridge a reliable deep and intermediate threat.

Defensively, Southridge has shown flashes of playmaking ability.

Zaria Evans leads the unit with 5 interceptions and 8 pass deflections, while the team as a whole has recorded 16 interceptions—proving they can capitalize on mistakes. Up front, Emily Matos leads the pass rush with 4 sacks, and Tiara Mays adds support with 14 flag pulls.

What This Game Comes Down To

This matchup will be decided by two key situations:

1. Can Southridge contain Victoria Holder? If Southridge finds a way to limit Ferguson’s top receiver and disrupt their passing rhythm, they give themselves a real chance to control the game.

2. Will Aubrey Gisbert be unleashed? If Gisbert is allowed to fully utilize her dual-threat ability—extending plays, attacking with her legs, and stretching the field—Southridge becomes a completely different team. She has the ability to take over and swing momentum at any moment.

Final Take

Ferguson brings consistency, balance, and discipline, while Southridge relies on explosiveness and game-changing ability.

If Aubrey Gisbert is contained, Ferguson likely controls the pace.But if she’s able to play freely and use her full skill set, Southridge has a real shot to pull off the win and advance.

Prediction: This game hinges on Gisbert. If she’s unleashed—Southridge can steal it. If not—Ferguson moves on.