The Sussex Central (Georgetown, DE) varsity football team will host Appoquinimink (West Middletown, DE) today at 7 p.m. for a home playoff game. This matchup is part of the 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoff Brackets: DIAA – 3A tournament.
Appoquinimink vs Sussex Central High School Football Game Info:
What: Delaware High School Football
Who: Appoquinimink vs Sussex Central
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 3:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoff Brackets: DIAA – 3A
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Appoquinimink vs Sussex Central
The Appoquinimink (West Middletown, DE) varsity football team will travel to face Sussex Central (Georgetown, DE) for a highly anticipated playoff game tonight at 7 p.m. The game is part of the 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoff Brackets: DIAA – 3A tournament.
Both teams come into this matchup with strong seasons, boasting impressive records. Sussex Central enters the contest with an 8-2 overall record and an 800 winning percentage in league play, while Appoquinimink holds a 7-3 overall record, including a 4-1 away record. Despite their similar records, the teams are familiar with each other after a thrilling regular season encounter. In their last matchup on October 4, Appoquinimink edged out Sussex Central with a 33-30 victory at home, making this playoff contest all the more exciting.
Team Breakdown
Appoquinimink:
Appoquinimink has been a dynamic offensive force this season, averaging 28.5 points per game. They have found success through a balanced attack, with key contributors like Malik Bell, who has been dominant both on the ground and as an overall offensive weapon. Bell leads the team in rushing yards, boasting impressive numbers that have helped the team accumulate 394.8 total yards per game. However, their defense has been less formidable, giving up 181 points across the season.
Sussex Central:
On the other hand, Sussex Central’s offense has been explosive, averaging 37.2 points per game. With a dominant running game led by standout Malik Bell (184.9 yards per game), the Knights have been nearly unstoppable on the ground. Their total offense has averaged 372 yards per game, with the run-heavy strategy complemented by a solid defense that has allowed just 210 points throughout the season. Sussex Central has also shown resilience in tough situations, with several key wins under their belt, including victories over teams like Dover and St. Georges Tech.
Key Players to Watch
For Appoquinimink, Malik Bell has been a standout, not only as a runner but also as a major contributor in the passing game. Bell’s explosive speed and ability to break tackles will be critical as the team looks to overcome Sussex Central’s physicality. Another player to watch is Josiah Johnson, who has been a reliable target in the passing game.
For Sussex Central, Malik Bell (not to be confused with Appoquinimink’s standout player) has been the driving force on offense, both rushing and receiving. The Knights’ success will depend on Bell’s ability to control the game, especially in the second half when the team has consistently shown its strength. Sussex Central’s Bradley Chavez and Josiah Johnson will also be key players in the team’s offensive execution.
A Look Back
The previous matchup between these two teams was a high-scoring affair, with Appoquinimink securing a 33-30 win at home. This gives the Jaguars an edge in terms of recent success, but Sussex Central will be looking for revenge in this playoff game.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced several of the same opponents during the season, and both have fared similarly in these matchups. Notably, both teams won against Dover, St. Georges Tech, and Smyrna, although Sussex Central did drop a close game to Middletown in the season finale.
Playoff Implications
This playoff game is crucial for both teams. For Appoquinimink, it’s a chance to prove that their regular season win over Sussex Central wasn’t a fluke and to move closer to a potential state championship. For Sussex Central, it’s a chance to avenge their earlier loss and continue their playoff run in front of their home crowd.
Conclusion
With both teams having potent offenses and strong playmakers, tonight’s game is expected to be an intense, high-energy matchup. Sussex Central will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage, while Appoquinimink will seek to replicate their earlier success. Regardless of the outcome, this game is shaping up to be a thrilling chapter in the 2024 DIAA 3A tournament.
