Phoenix Desert Vista has played two games and has been two entirely different teams. A week after a dismal performance in a season-opening loss to Gilbert, the Thunder got five turnovers from their defense and a stellar first career start from quarterback Cody Sokol in throttling Mesa, 49-0.

SLIDESHOW: Friday night high school football

"We played a lot better," said Sokol, a junior. "We came out with an attitude.

"We played how we were supposed to play in Week 1."

Sokol, who took over this week for senior Cole Pembroke, threw for two touchdowns and 215 yards on 14-of-20 passing. He also had a 13-yard run for a score.

"We got a lot of things worked out with our (offensive) line," said Desert Vista coach Dan Hinds. "They gave Cody time to see his receivers and throw the ball downfield a little bit, so that was the difference right there, I think."

Desert Vista benefited from excellent field position in the first half, six times starting within Jackrabbit territory - and three times from within the 25-yard line.

"That's a blessing when you've got that short field and you've just got to pound it in," Sokol said.

Desert Vista used a stable of backs in rushing for 158 yards on 34 carries. Senior Devon Kennard had three touchdowns on the ground, and junior Anthony Kereluk had a 3-yard rush and 34-yard reception that went for scores.

Thunder defensive end Danny Mullarkey had 3 1/2 sacks and also forced two fumbles. Kennard added 1 1/2 sacks of his own and recovered a fumble.

Mesa running back Greg King had 42 yards on eight rushes.