(PAYSON, Ariz.) No. 10 Gilbert Christian pulled off a stunning first round upset on the road Friday night, defeating the No. 7 Payson Longhorns 25-15 to advance in the 3A state football playoffs.

Senior standout Kamari Stanbury was sensational, racking up 219 all-purpose yards, scoring two touchdowns, and hauling in a pick that tied him for the all-time career interception record at GCHS. He now has 10 interceptions and 18 touchdowns on the season.

On defense, junior Evan Scott was everywhere for the Knights, registering a staggering 14 tackles (including seven solo), along with a sack and a key fumble recovery. Senior Hyatt Lang and junior Marcel Maro also contributed sacks in the winning effort.

Quarterback Caleb Ely turned in a career night, throwing for 256 yards and two touchdowns on 22-of-35 passing for a 104.0 passer rating, while playing both ways and seeing snaps at cornerback.

Sophomore Pierson Scott added 112 all-purpose yards and two scores of his own in the affair, continuing his breakout season. Junior receiver Kai Ahlman, returning from injury, made an immediate impact for Gilbert Christian's offense, with eight catches for 86 yards.

Freshman Dusty Cook added another interception for the Knights' defense, which held Payson scoreless through the first half as the Knights amassed a 19-0 halftime lead.

The win improves Gilbert Christian's record to 8-3 on the season and marks the first playoff victory for Head Coach John Carlson. The milestone also represents Carlson's 20th career win at the helm of the Knights' program, a testament to the steady rise the team has made under his leadership.

The victory sends GCHS to the state quarterfinals, where it will face rival Valley Christian (10-1) on Friday at VCHS. Kickoff is set for 7:00pm. All fans will need a ticket for entrance to the play-off game (purchase HERE).