The Akron (CO) varsity football team is set to face off against Sedgwick County (Julesburg, CO) in a neutral-site playoff game today at 1 p.m. as part of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class A 8-Man tournament. This game promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting records and styles of play.

Team Records and Performance

• Akron enters the game with an impressive 9-1 overall record, including a 5-0 mark in league play. Akron has been dominant all season, with a perfect 5-0 record on the road and a powerful offense that has averaged 39.3 points per game. Their defense has also been strong, allowing just 155 points over the season.
• Sedgwick County, on the other hand, has a 5-5 overall record and a 2-2 league performance. The team has had a mixed season, but they’ve been solid at home with a 2-2 record. Despite their record, they’ve shown resilience, especially in games against tougher opponents, and will look to pull off the upset in this playoff showdown.

Head-to-Head

The two teams met earlier in the season on October 25, with Akron securing a 20-6 victory on the road. Akron’s balanced offensive attack and stout defense held off Sedgwick County, who managed to score only in the final quarter.

In today’s playoff game, Sedgwick County will be looking to bounce back from that loss and make a statement as they aim for a playoff upset.

Key Statistics and Matchup Breakdown

• Akron’s Offense: Akron’s offense has been highly effective this season, averaging 366.7 total yards per game, with 291.3 rushing yards per game led by standout running back Anderson Filla, who is averaging 118.8 rushing yards per game. Akron’s balanced attack, including a solid passing game with Kolten Randel (86.3 passing yards per game), has been a key to their success.
• Sedgwick County’s Offense: Sedgwick County has struggled with offensive consistency at times but has had some breakout performances. Their rushing attack is led by Jaxon Carlson, who averages 94.4 rushing yards per game, and their defense has shown improvement, especially in big games.
• Akron’s Defense: Akron’s defense has been strong all season, averaging 63.4 tackles per game and allowing just 155 points. Key players like Anderson Filla and Mason Porteus have been major contributors to the team’s defensive success.
• Sedgwick County’s Defense: Sedgwick County’s defense has given up 183 points this season but has shown resilience in tough games, including big wins over teams like Dayspring Christian Academy and Merino. They’ll need to contain Akron’s explosive offense to have a chance at advancing in the playoffs.

Key Players to Watch

• Akron: Look for Anderson Filla to be the focal point of Akron’s offense, both as a rusher and a key defensive player. His leadership and ability to control the game on the ground will be crucial for Akron’s success. Quarterback Kolten Randel will also play a critical role in keeping Sedgwick County’s defense on their heels with his passing ability.
• Sedgwick County: Jaxon Carlson will be the key offensive player for Sedgwick County, not only rushing the ball but also leading his team as they look to control the clock and limit Akron’s offensive opportunities. On defense, Owen Harris and Josh Kler will need to step up and make big plays to slow down Akron’s offensive attack.

Common Opponents

Both teams share some common opponents, with Akron holding a 3-1 record against them and Sedgwick County posting a 2-1 record. Notably, both teams faced off against Haxtun, with Akron losing 48-0 and Sedgwick County falling 32-6. However, both teams also defeated Dayspring Christian Academy and Merino, giving a glimpse into the caliber of competition they’ve faced this season.

Conclusion

With Akron entering as the higher-ranked and more dominant team, Sedgwick County will need to overcome their prior loss and come out strong with their best effort to pull off an upset. With both teams playing at neutral sites, this playoff game is expected to be intense as both squads battle for a spot in the next round.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. today, and fans can expect an exciting clash between Akron’s high-powered offense and Sedgwick County’s scrappy, defensive-minded squad.