The Jones (Orlando, FL) varsity football team will face American Heritage (Plantation, FL) in a neutral playoff game today at 7:30 PM at Jones. This match is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships for the 4A FHSAA Football division.
American Heritage vs Jones High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: AHHS vs Jones
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 4A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: American Heritage Patriots vs Jones Fightin’ Tigers
The stage is set for an exciting playoff matchup in the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships as the Jones Tigers (14-0) take on the American Heritage Patriots (11-2) today at 7:30 p.m. at Jones High School in Orlando. With both teams showcasing impressive records, this neutral playoff game promises to be a thrilling contest.
Team Overview
American Heritage enters the game with a solid 11-2 record, including a perfect 3-0 district record. The Patriots have been a dominant force on both offense and defense, averaging 30.6 points per game while allowing 201 total points. Their high-powered offense is led by quarterback Dia Bell, who has thrown for 236.1 yards per game, and running back Byron Louis, who averages 124.7 rushing yards per game.
On the other side, Jones is undefeated at 14-0, having cruised through both district and non-district play with a perfect 3-0 district record and an impressive 8-0 home record. The Tigers’ offense is potent, averaging 35.0 points per game and generating 420.1 total yards per game. Jones’ offense is spearheaded by quarterback Dereon Coleman, who leads the team with 231.3 passing yards per game, and running back Jaquail Smith, who averages 123.4 rushing yards per game.
Key Stats & Matchup Breakdown
When comparing the two teams, the numbers show a close contest across the board. Jones has a slight edge in total yards per game (420.1) compared to American Heritage’s 419.2. Both teams have an explosive passing attack, with Jones averaging 234.0 passing yards per game to American Heritage’s 226.5.
While American Heritage leads in rushing yards per game (192.7), Jones is right behind with 186.1 rushing yards per game. The teams are evenly matched in receiving yards per game, both averaging 234.0 yards.
On defense, American Heritage boasts a slightly higher tackles per game average (79.0) compared to Jones’ 67.6. However, Jones has been far more effective in pressuring the quarterback, with 4.1 sacks per game, compared to American Heritage’s 1.1 sacks per game. This could be a key factor in the game, as Jones’ defense looks to disrupt the Patriots’ passing attack.
Team Leaders
American Heritage’s offensive leaders include running back Byron Louis, who has been a force on the ground, and quarterback Dia Bell, who has contributed significantly to the passing game. Louis leads the team with 124.7 rushing yards per game, while Bell averages 236.1 total yards per game and 10.1 points per game.
Jones is led by quarterback Dereon Coleman, who has thrown for 231.3 yards per game and has been a dual-threat for the Tigers. Running back Jaquail Smith, who averages 123.4 rushing yards per game, complements Coleman’s passing attack, and receiver Vernell Brown III is a top target in the air with 100.4 receiving yards per game.
Common Opponents
Both teams share one common opponent: Naples. American Heritage faced Naples in an away game on September 13, 2024, securing a 23-3 victory. Jones played Naples at home on December 6, 2024, and also won, with an 18-7 score. While these results are similar, it is important to note that each team has faced a different set of challenges leading up to this game.
Playoff History
Both teams have been dominant in the postseason, with Jones boasting a flawless 4-0 playoff record this season. American Heritage, meanwhile, has been strong in the playoffs as well, holding a 4-0 playoff record. The pressure is on both teams to maintain their playoff success and push towards a state title.
Final Thoughts
With their perfect records on the line, Jones and American Heritage are set for a showdown that promises to deliver high-intensity football. American Heritage’s balanced offensive attack will meet Jones’ explosive offense and suffocating defense. Fans can expect a hard-fought game as these two powerhouse teams battle it out for a spot in the next round of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships.
This game will not only be a test of each team’s skill and strategy but also of their ability to perform under the bright lights of playoff football. Both teams have shown they are more than capable of advancing, and only one will emerge victorious.
