The Cherokee County varsity football team faces off against Jackson in a neutral-site playoff game today at 11 a.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs for the 4A division. Both teams are eager to advance, promising an intense and action-packed showdown on the path to championship glory.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Alabama State Football Championship
Who: Houston Academy vs Mars Hill Bible
When: Today, December 06, 2024
Bracket: AHSAA Super 7 Class 4A Championship
Time: 11 a.m.
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Jackson vs. Cherokee County

The 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs for the 4A division bring a thrilling clash between two powerhouse teams, Jackson and Cherokee County. Both squads enter the game with identical 13-1 records and perfect region play, setting the stage for an intense and closely contested showdown.

Jackson: A Dominant Force

Ranked 16th in Alabama and holding the top spot in Class 4A, Jackson has been a dominant team throughout the season. Their overall win percentage of .929 and flawless 6-0 region record underline their consistency and strength. The team has demonstrated exceptional scoring ability, amassing 630 points while conceding only 182, giving them a scoring average of 45 points per game.

Jackson’s explosive starts have been a defining feature, averaging an impressive 17.8 points in the first quarter alone. However, their scoring slows considerably in the fourth quarter, where they average just 1.8 points. To secure victory, Jackson will need to maintain their offensive momentum throughout the game and capitalize on their early-game strength.

Cherokee County: Balanced and Resilient

Cherokee County, ranked 44th in Alabama and second in Class 4A, matches Jackson with a 13-1 record and an unbeaten region record (7-0). They have outscored opponents 503-161, showcasing their strong offense and sturdy defense. Averaging 35.9 points per game, Cherokee County has proven their ability to perform consistently across all quarters.

While Cherokee County’s scoring is not as front-loaded as Jackson’s, their balanced approach across all four quarters—averaging 7.0 points in both the first and second quarters and peaking at 10.5 in the third—reflects their adaptability and endurance. Their defense, which has allowed fewer points than Jackson’s, could play a crucial role in this matchup.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Both teams boast identical win percentages (.929) and flawless region records, but their playing styles differ. Jackson relies on early-game domination to build a lead, while Cherokee County’s balanced performance gives them strength across all quarters. The game may come down to whether Cherokee County’s defense can withstand Jackson’s explosive starts and whether Jackson can maintain their offensive output against a resilient opponent.

What to Watch For

Key to Jackson’s success will be capitalizing on their early scoring opportunities and avoiding a slowdown in the later stages of the game. Cherokee County, on the other hand, must weather Jackson’s initial burst and leverage their defensive discipline to keep the game within reach. The ability to control the tempo and execute in critical moments will likely determine the winner.

Conclusion

As two evenly matched teams face off in the 4A playoffs, this game promises to deliver high-intensity action and drama. With Jackson’s offensive firepower and Cherokee County’s balanced resilience, fans can expect a captivating battle with a spot in the next round at stake. The stage is set for a memorable playoff clash.