Jordy Fee-Platt is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Cactus High School for AZPreps365.com

The Cactus defense was instrumental to the team’s success all during the 2022 season. At the heart of this unit was senior defensive end Dominic Solano. The Cobras entered Friday’s state championship game with 42 total sacks this season. Solano was responsible for 23 ½ of them.

Despite his team falling short of a state title against Higley, 41-21, the 5A Desert West Defensive Player of the Year continued his outstanding season at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe. 

The Cobras faced a challenge unlike any they had seen all year in Higley’s high-powered offense. Sophomore quarterback Jamar Malone, who already has interest from top Power 5 schools like USC, threw for more than 3,700 yards and 42 touchdowns this season to go along with 851 yards rushing. Malone’s ability to make off-schedule plays, both with his legs and through the air, gave Cactus fits.

However, for a period in the first half, the Cobras were able to limit Malone’s effectiveness. After running for a 60-yard touchdown on Higley’s first possession, the Higley offense stalled for more than a quarter. 

This was due in large part to Cactus’ pass rush, particularly Solano, who had four sacks in the game. Malone was thrown out of his rhythm, and the Knights struggled to get their offense going. On numerous occasions, Malone had to scamper away from pressure, relentlessly being chased by the 6-foot-4, 225-pound Solano. 

In some cases, this pressure led to sacks and in other situations, errant throws. Solano’s ability to keep up with the elusive Malone kept Cactus’ defense afloat, and allowed the team to build a two-score lead in the first half. Until late in the second quarter, Higley had just 6 points. 

After two late touchdowns at the end of the first half, however, Higley had cut the lead to 21-20. In the second half, the Cobras unraveled on both sides of the ball, and the Knights pulled away for the win. 

Nonetheless, Solano’s tremendous contribution to the team, both in Friday’s game and this season as a whole, will not go unnoticed. His sack total led all of 5A by a margin of 9 ½, and he was second on the team in tackles. Cactus will have a tough time replacing him next season. Cactus coach Brian Belles has tremendous admiration for Solano. 

“He battled all season for us on both sides of the ball,” Belles said. “Can’t say enough about him. He definitely left a legacy.”

Solano has committed to play at FCS powerhouse Montana State next season. The Bobcats are currently in the FCS semifinals, looking for their second-ever national championship. They will certainly be fortunate to have Solano at their disposal next season.