The Akron (CO) and Haxtun (CO) varsity football teams are set to face off in a crucial neutral playoff game today at 5 p.m. at Haxtun. This match is a part of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class A 8-Man tournament, with both teams boasting impressive records and high expectations as they look to advance further in the competition.

Season Overview

Akron enters the playoff game with an overall record of 11-1, including a 6-0 home record and 4-1 away. Their offense has been explosive, averaging 39.1 points per game. Akron excels on the ground, racking up an average of 285.5 rushing yards per game. Their defense has also been strong, allowing only 188 points throughout the season. The team has displayed versatility, with standout players such as Anderson Filla, who leads the team in both rushing yards (121.3 per game) and tackles (13.7 per game), making significant contributions on both sides of the ball.

Haxtun, also with an 11-1 record, has been dominant throughout the season, particularly in league play where they went 4-0. The team has outscored opponents by a large margin, averaging 49.3 points per game. Haxtun is particularly potent offensively, with 318.5 rushing yards per game, making them one of the most efficient offenses in the state. Defensively, they have been formidable, allowing only 90 points over the course of the season. Haxtun’s offensive leader, Grant Statz, has been pivotal, contributing 95.9 rushing yards per game and 12.4 tackles per game.

Head-to-Head

The two teams have already met once this season, on October 11, in a dominant 48-0 victory for Haxtun. Akron struggled to put up any points in that matchup, while Haxtun’s offense exploded early and never looked back, scoring 40 points in the first half alone. This early-season victory will likely boost Haxtun’s confidence heading into this playoff rematch, but Akron will be looking to regroup and prove they can perform better in this crucial postseason setting.

Common Opponents

Both Akron and Haxtun have faced several common opponents this season, with notable victories against teams such as Dayspring Christian Academy, Sedgwick County, and Merino. Akron is 5-0 against common foes, while Haxtun has a 3-0 record in those matchups. Haxtun’s impressive wins against teams like Sedgwick County (32-6) and Merino (70-6) show their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball.

While Akron has had success against teams like Sedgwick County and Merino, Haxtun has been equally dominant in their matchups, with blowout wins and strong all-around performances. Both teams will be looking to carry that momentum into today’s playoff game.

Key Players to Watch

• Anderson Filla (Akron): Filla is the heart and soul of the Akron offense, leading the team in rushing yards and total yards. He also contributes significantly on defense and will need to perform at a high level for Akron to challenge Haxtun.
• Grant Statz (Haxtun): Statz has been a standout player for Haxtun, with impressive rushing yards and tackles. His leadership on both offense and defense will be crucial as Haxtun looks to build on their early-season success.
• Chase Goddard (Haxtun): A strong contributor on both offense and special teams, Goddard’s ability to make big plays will be a key factor in Haxtun’s playoff push.

The Road Ahead

The winner of this game will move one step closer to a state championship, with both Akron and Haxtun hoping to keep their championship dreams alive. Akron’s offense will need to find a way to break through Haxtun’s solid defense, while Haxtun will aim to maintain their offensive dominance and continue to execute their game plan effectively.

Conclusion

Today’s game promises to be an exciting and hard-fought contest between two of Colorado’s top 8-man football teams. With both Akron and Haxtun entering the game with 11-1 records and a wealth of talent on both sides of the ball, fans can expect a high-energy matchup. Akron will be looking to avenge their earlier loss to Haxtun, while Haxtun aims to continue their dominant run through the playoffs. The outcome of this game will have a significant impact on the rest of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class A 8-Man tournament, as both teams look to prove they are the best in the state.