The Abbeville Panthers, with an 8-1 record, will host the C.A. Johnson Hornets, who are 2-8, for a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class A Football tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Abbeville vs C.A. Johnson
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class A Football
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Game preview: Abbeville vs C.A. Johnson

As the 2024-2025 high school football season winds down, two teams in South Carolina, C.A. Johnson and Abbeville, are heading in starkly different directions. With their records showing a clear disparity, C.A. Johnson (2-8) faces a daunting challenge as they prepare to meet Abbeville (8-1) in an upcoming matchup.

Team Overview

C.A. Johnson has struggled through a tough season, with a 2-8 overall record, including a 1-4 mark in region play. The team has been inconsistent, particularly in away games, where they are winless (0-4). Despite the challenges, C.A. Johnson has managed to score an average of 16 points per game, led by running back Keivonte Bates, who has been their standout player, averaging 81.7 rushing yards per game.

Abbeville, on the other hand, has been dominant this season with an 8-1 overall record. The Panthers have been nearly flawless in region play, going a perfect 5-0. Abbeville has displayed a potent offense, averaging 52.6 points per game, and their defense has been equally impressive, allowing only 141 points across nine games. Their well-balanced team is led by a strong ground game and a high-scoring attack, particularly in the second half, where they average a staggering 23.5 points per game in the fourth quarter.

Statistical Comparison

When looking at the numbers, it’s clear that Abbeville holds a significant edge in most statistical categories. The Panthers have averaged 473 total yards per game, compared to C.A. Johnson’s 205.9 yards per game. Abbeville’s rushing game is particularly effective, but C.A. Johnson has kept their opponents in check with decent defensive performances. Despite the statistics being heavily skewed in Abbeville’s favor, C.A. Johnson’s players, such as Bates, have shown flashes of brilliance, and they will need more of these moments to compete in this matchup.

Key statistics for both teams include:

• C.A. Johnson: 173.6 rushing yards per game, 32.3 passing yards per game, 16.0 points per game.
• Abbeville: 473 total yards per game, 52.6 points per game.

Key Players

For C.A. Johnson, the star player has undoubtedly been Keivonte Bates. His ability to break through defenses, averaging 81.7 rushing yards per game, will be critical in any potential upset. Bates’ versatility will be important as he also contributes defensively, leading the team in tackles (7.7 per game).

Abbeville’s standout players include their running backs and overall playmakers, but one to watch is the dynamic playmaker on both sides of the ball. Abbeville’s ability to dominate on both offense and defense will make this matchup a tough hill for C.A. Johnson to climb.

Looking Ahead

C.A. Johnson will need to capitalize on their few moments of success, especially at home, where they have managed to win two of their games this season. They’ll be looking for improved play from their passing game and a defensive effort that can slow down Abbeville’s explosive offense.

Abbeville, on the other hand, will likely head into this game with confidence, aiming to extend their perfect region record to 6-0 and keep their momentum heading into the playoffs.

Conclusion

C.A. Johnson’s season has been filled with ups and downs, while Abbeville has remained a dominant force in their region. With a high-powered offense and an airtight defense, Abbeville will be favored heavily in this matchup. However, high school football is never predictable, and with key players like Keivonte Bates on their roster, C.A. Johnson will be hoping to deliver a strong performance to finish their season on a high note. The game promises to be an exciting contrast in styles, and fans will be looking forward to what could be a thrilling encounter.