The Norland varsity football team from Miami, FL, will host Archbishop McCarthy from Fort Lauderdale, FL, in a home playoff game today at 7 PM at Norland High School. This game is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the 4A division.
Archbishop McCarthy vs Norland High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: AMCHS vs Norland
When: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 7:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 4A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Archbishop McCarthy vs Norland
The 2024 FHSAA 4A Football State Championships continue tonight with a compelling playoff rematch as Norland High School (8-2) takes on Archbishop McCarthy (7-4) at 7 PM in Miami. These teams met earlier this season, with Norland earning a commanding 49-16 victory. However, postseason games often bring new challenges, and Archbishop McCarthy will look to avenge that loss and extend their playoff run.
Season Recap and Team Comparison
Norland Vikings (8-2)
Ranked 28th nationally and 2nd in their class, Norland has excelled with an explosive offense and a dominant defense. They average 30.6 points per game and lead Archbishop McCarthy in total yards per game (473.0 vs. 307.7). Quarterback Ennio Yapoor is the cornerstone of their success, contributing an incredible 343.1 total yards per game with 264.6 coming through the air.
On defense, Norland averages 63.8 tackles per game and an imposing 5.0 sacks per game, led by Adrian Farrow, who has 1.2 sacks per game.
Archbishop McCarthy Mavericks (7-4)
The Mavericks enter the playoffs with a 7-4 record but struggled in league play, going 0-3. Their offensive approach is more balanced, averaging 196.0 rushing yards and 111.7 passing yards per game. Damien Grant leads the ground game with 79.0 rushing yards per game, while Robert Kerns contributes 104.8 passing yards and 147.7 total yards per game.
Defensively, Archbishop McCarthy averages 59.3 tackles per game and 3.1 sacks, with Justin St-Ange anchoring the unit with 9.5 tackles per game.
Head-to-Head Recap
In their September 27 meeting, Norland dominated from the second quarter onward, turning a 9-0 deficit into a 49-16 blowout. Yapoor delivered a masterful performance, and Norland’s defense shut out the Mavericks in the second half. Archbishop McCarthy will need a much stronger effort to turn the tide in this rematch.
Key Matchups
Norland Offense vs. Archbishop McCarthy Defense
Yapoor’s dual-threat ability will test the Mavericks’ defense, which must find a way to contain him both in the air and on the ground. Terrence Honeywood, who averages 66.0 receiving yards per game, is a crucial target for Norland.
Archbishop McCarthy Ground Game vs. Norland Defense
The Mavericks’ best chance lies in controlling the clock with their rushing attack. Damien Grant needs a standout performance to challenge Norland’s defense, led by Darryll Desir and Farrow.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced Plantation and American Heritage this season:
- Norland defeated Plantation 37-20 but forfeited to American Heritage.
- Archbishop McCarthy lost to Plantation in the regular season but edged them 7-0 in the playoffs.
These results suggest that Norland has the edge in head-to-head matchups against shared opponents.
What’s at Stake
With a spot in the next round of the 4A playoffs on the line, tonight’s game is crucial for both programs. Norland aims to capitalize on their earlier success and continue their title pursuit, while Archbishop McCarthy seeks redemption and a statement win on the road.
Kickoff is set for 7 PM at Norland High School. Fans can expect an intense battle as these two teams leave it all on the field.
