The Barnwell (SC) varsity football team is hosting a playoff game against Cheraw (SC) tonight at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AA Football tournament.

Barnwell vs Cheraw Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Barnwell vs Cheraw
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Barnwell vs Cheraw

As the high school football season heats up in South Carolina, two of the state’s top teams, Cheraw and Barnwell, are poised for a thrilling contest that promises to showcase a clash of styles and strength. Both teams have dominated their respective regions and have proven themselves capable of great performances both at home and on the road. With playoff implications hanging in the balance, here’s a closer look at how Cheraw and Barnwell stack up against each other.

Team Records and Rankings

• Cheraw: With an overall record of 10-2, Cheraw enters this matchup with confidence, boasting a perfect 5-0 record in region play. The team’s strong showing at home (6-0) and solid performance away (4-2) has made them a formidable force throughout the season. Cheraw’s offensive game has been potent, averaging 25.7 points per game, led by star running back Cam McClendon, who’s piled up 103 yards per game this season.
• Barnwell: On the other side, Barnwell comes into this matchup with an even more impressive record of 11-1. The Warhorses have been perfect in region play, finishing 4-0, and have posted an outstanding 6-1 record on the road. Barnwell’s offense has been explosive, averaging 29.7 points per game, with strong offensive numbers across the board. They’ve dominated both home and away games, leaving them in a strong position as they head into their next big challenge.

Scoring and Statistical Breakdown

• Cheraw: Known for a balanced scoring attack, Cheraw’s points per quarter are as follows: 8.9 in the first quarter, 7.1 in the second, 5.5 in the third, and 4.2 in the fourth. With 308 total points scored and just 139 points allowed, the team shows both offensive capability and defensive resilience. A key player to watch is #21 Cam McClendon, who leads the team with 103 rushing yards per game and 7.2 points per game, along with 88.2 passing yards per game.
• Barnwell: Barnwell has a similar offensive spread, with 3.6 points in the first quarter, but a standout 11.7 in the second quarter. Their consistency in the second half has been a hallmark of their play, as they average 4.8 points in the third and 6.6 in the fourth. Barnwell’s total points scored (356) and points allowed (104) further highlight their dominance, averaging an impressive 29.7 points per game. Like Cheraw, Barnwell’s standout is in the rushing game, although individual player stats were not available, the team’s running game remains a key to their success.

Team Leaders

• Cheraw: The Cheraw offensive attack is driven by McClendon’s 103 rushing yards per game. Deshaun Drake contributes significantly with 42.2 receiving yards per game, while Kadin Thomas adds 88.0 passing yards per game. Robert Brown leads the team with 5.5 tackles per game, and Jaden Horne has been a key defensive force with 1.0 sacks per game.
• Barnwell: Barnwell’s team dynamics are similarly well-rounded, with standout contributions across various positions. While individual statistics weren’t provided for Barnwell’s players, the team’s overall offensive and defensive consistency has made them a dominant force.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced off against Edisto this season, each walking away with impressive victories. Cheraw defeated Edisto 45-0 on November 15, 2024, while Barnwell triumphed 34-8 on October 25, 2024. This common opponent result suggests both teams have the firepower to overpower similarly matched opponents.

Head-to-Head Record

Although these two teams have not yet met this season, their paths have crossed in past matchups, and fans are excited to see how they fare in a direct head-to-head contest. Both squads have a 1-0 record against common opponents, with Barnwell and Cheraw each showing dominance against their respective rivals.

Playoff Implications

With both teams finishing the regular season strong, Cheraw (10-2) and Barnwell (11-1) are well-positioned to make a deep run into the playoffs. Cheraw holds a slight edge in home-field advantage, but Barnwell’s road record and undefeated regional play give them a mental edge heading into this showdown.

Conclusion

As Cheraw and Barnwell face off, expect a hard-hitting, high-energy game that could be a preview of bigger things to come in the playoffs. With both teams excelling in different aspects of the game, it promises to be a contest full of strategic moves and intense competition. Whether it’s Cheraw’s balanced offense or Barnwell’s explosive scoring attack, this matchup will be one for the ages. Fans can expect fireworks when these two teams finally clash under the Friday night lights.