The Alvarado (TX) varsity football team will face Sulphur Springs (TX) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29 at 7:30 PM. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A Division 1 tournament.
Alvarado vs Sulphur Springs Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Alvarado vs Sulphur Springs
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A D1
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Alvarado vs Sulphur Springs
As the football season progresses, one of the most anticipated matchups in Texas high school football is the upcoming game between Sulphur Springs and Alvarado. Both teams have displayed impressive performances throughout the season, with Sulphur Springs holding a 10-2 overall record, while Alvarado remains undefeated at 12-0. This game promises to be a thrilling contest, with each team bringing its unique strengths to the field.
Team Records and Performance
Sulphur Springs has had a solid season with an overall record of 10-2, including a 4-2 mark in district play. The team has shown its ability to perform in all conditions, boasting a strong 5-0 record in away games. Their offensive strength is built on the solid performances of key players like Jaxson Haire, who averages 78.2 rushing yards per game, and Kaden Mitchell, who leads the passing game with 184.1 yards per game. Their defense is anchored by Grayson Hardy, who leads the team with 13 tackles per game.
On the other hand, Alvarado has been near-perfect, with an unblemished 12-0 record. The team has been dominant across all phases of the game, particularly in district play where they went a perfect 5-0. Alvarado has been especially effective in scoring, with an average of 58.3 points per game. Their offensive unit, led by standout performers like Demarcus Belton (146.5 rushing yards per game) and Cardea Collier (274.2 passing yards per game), has been nearly unstoppable. Defensively, they are no slouches either, as Logan Woolard and Anthony Frias lead the charge with 11.0 and 0.9 sacks per game, respectively.
Scoring and Stat Comparisons
When comparing the two teams, Alvarado stands out as the more potent offensive force, averaging 58.3 points per game compared to Sulphur Springs’ 36.8. While Sulphur Springs has a more balanced offensive attack with a fairly even distribution between rushing and passing yards, Alvarado’s offense has leaned heavily on both the rushing and passing game to rack up impressive totals.
Sulphur Springs averages 188.7 rushing yards per game and 191.1 passing yards per game, while Alvarado exceeds them in both categories with 299.4 rushing yards and 280.7 passing yards per game. The difference in total yards per game is significant as well, with Sulphur Springs averaging 379.8 yards compared to Alvarado’s 580.1 yards per game. This stark contrast in offensive output indicates Alvarado’s greater offensive firepower.
Defensively, both teams perform well, with Sulphur Springs averaging 67.3 tackles per game and Alvarado slightly ahead with 70.9 tackles per game. Alvarado also has the edge in sacks, with 3.3 sacks per game compared to Sulphur Springs’ 1.1.
Head-to-Head and Common Opponents
The two teams have had different experiences against common opponents this season. Sulphur Springs lost to Panther Creek 41-14 on November 8, 2024, while Alvarado triumphed in a close game, defeating Panther Creek 44-41 on November 21, 2024. This result adds an interesting layer of analysis, showing that Alvarado was able to secure a win in a closely contested battle, while Sulphur Springs struggled.
Despite their different outcomes against Panther Creek, both teams have excelled in their respective districts and have proven themselves as contenders in the state playoffs.
Key Players to Watch
For Sulphur Springs, look for Kaden Mitchell to continue leading the passing attack, while Jaxson Haire’s strong rushing ability will be critical to moving the ball. On defense, Grayson Hardy will be key to containing Alvarado’s high-powered offense.
For Alvarado, Demarcus Belton’s rushing ability and Cardea Collier’s passing precision will be pivotal. The defense, led by Logan Woolard and Anthony Frias, will need to disrupt Sulphur Springs’ rhythm to maintain their dominance.
Conclusion
Sulphur Springs and Alvarado are two powerhouse teams, each with their own set of strengths. Alvarado’s perfect season and high-scoring offense make them the favorite, but Sulphur Springs’ well-rounded approach and tough defense will provide a strong challenge. Football fans can expect a high-octane game that will showcase some of the best talent in Texas high school football.
With both teams heading into this game in top form, it promises to be a thrilling contest, and whichever team emerges victorious will be one step closer to a state championship.
