The Arp (TX) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Woodville (TX) today at 7 p.m. at Rusk High School. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, Conference 3A Division 2 tournament.

Arp vs Woodville Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Arp vs Woodville
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 3A D2
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Game preview: Arp vs Woodville

As the 2024-2025 football season progresses, the Woodville Eagles and the Arp Tigers have been two standout teams in their respective districts. With impressive records and strong individual performances, both teams have set themselves apart, showcasing the resilience and determination that defines high school football in Texas. Here’s a detailed comparison of their season so far.

Woodville Eagles (8-2 Overall, 5-1 District)

Woodville enters the latter stages of the season with a strong 8-2 overall record, including a solid 5-1 district performance. The Eagles have been efficient both at home and on the road, with a 4-1 record at home and 4-1 on the road. Their offense has been particularly potent, averaging 391 total yards per game, led by dynamic rushing and passing attacks.

Team Strengths:

• Rushing Game: With 291 rushing yards per game, Woodville boasts one of the most powerful ground games in their district. This is spearheaded by #6 Josh Smith, who averages an impressive 144.5 yards per game and has been a consistent playmaker.
• Passing Game: Although primarily focused on the run, Woodville’s passing game has been effective, averaging 101.2 yards per game. #2 Thomas McKelvey has been the signal-caller, contributing 81 yards per game in the air.
• Defensive Performance: The Eagles’ defense has been solid, averaging 57 tackles per game. Josh Smith also leads the team in tackles with 10.2 per game, demonstrating his all-around playmaking ability.

Scoring:

• Woodville averages 39.1 points per game, with notable scoring drives in the first and third quarters. Their ability to put up points early gives them a strong advantage in most matchups.

Arp Tigers (7-3 Overall, 4-2 District)

The Arp Tigers, with a 7-3 overall record, have had a strong but slightly less consistent season than Woodville, finishing 4-2 in district play. However, the Tigers have shown resilience and depth, especially in their home games, where they are 4-1.

Team Strengths:

• Balanced Offense: Arp has a more balanced offensive attack compared to Woodville, averaging 376 total yards per game. They are strong both in the air and on the ground, averaging 291 rushing yards per game and 101.2 passing yards per game.
• Quarterback Play: Arp’s passing attack is led by Thomas McKelvey, who contributes 81 passing yards per game. The team also benefits from a solid ground game, helping to keep defenses off balance.
• Defensive Effort: Like Woodville, Arp has been a tough team defensively, with 57 tackles per game. Though their sack numbers are lower than Woodville’s, their ability to prevent big plays has been key to their success.

Scoring:

• Arp averages 37.6 points per game. The Tigers have demonstrated a strong second quarter offense, scoring 14.0 points per game in that period, making them a team that can strike quickly and decisively.

Key Players:

• Woodville: Josh Smith has been the focal point of the Eagles’ offense and defense. His 144.5 rushing yards per game, combined with his leadership on defense, make him a standout player. He also leads the team in total yards per game (145.2) and points per game (14.4).
• Arp: Thomas McKelvey has been a dual-threat quarterback, managing both the passing and rushing attacks. He leads the team in passing yards (81.0 per game) and plays an important role in the Tigers’ balanced offensive approach.

Head-to-Head and Matchup Outlook

The two teams have yet to face each other this season, and their matchup will be crucial in determining the district champion. Both teams boast strong offensive units, but Woodville’s high-powered rushing attack and solid defense give them a slight edge. Arp, however, has shown a more consistent ability to score, particularly in the second quarter, which could prove pivotal in a potential showdown.

Statistical Comparison:

Conclusion:

Both Woodville and Arp have had strong seasons so far, with Woodville having a slight edge in overall performance. However, the Tigers’ ability to balance their offensive attack and their solid defensive play means they will not be easy opponents for anyone in the district. As these two teams prepare for their inevitable clash, all eyes will be on their respective star players, with Josh Smith of Woodville and Thomas McKelvey of Arp poised to make major impacts. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with high stakes on the line for both teams.