The Heidelberg varsity football team from Heidelberg, MS, will take on Bay Springs, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Bay Springs vs Heidelberg
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 2A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Bay Springs vs. Heidelberg

The Bay Springs (9-3) vs. Heidelberg (11-1) playoff game promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams entering with strong records and solid performances throughout the season. Bay Springs, coming off a 16-8 win against Heidelberg earlier in the season, will be hoping to repeat their success. However, Heidelberg has been a dominant force this season and will be eager to bounce back and continue their march towards a state title.

Season Recap: Bay Springs Bulldogs

• Record: 9-3
• District Record: 4-0
• Points For/Against: 304 PF, 195 PA
• Scoring Average: 21.8 points per game

Bay Springs has had a solid season, dominating in their district and achieving a strong overall record. Their defense has been a key part of their success, allowing just 195 points over the season. Offensively, their run-pass balance has been effective, with quarterback Dalyn Pierce leading the charge. Bay Springs will need to keep the game low-scoring and take advantage of their strong defense.

Key Performances:

• Offense: Dalyn Pierce has been the leader, with 122.3 passing yards per game and an additional 150.9 total yards.
• Defense: The Bulldogs are led defensively by Myles Ross and Malaki Page, who will need to contain Heidelberg’s high-scoring offense.

Season Recap: Heidelberg Oilers

• Record: 11-1
• District Record: 4-0
• Points For/Against: 604 PF, 49 PA
• Scoring Average: 50.2 points per game

Heidelberg has been one of the most dominant teams this season, with an offense that averages 50.2 points per game and a defense that has allowed just 49 points all season. Their offense, led by the dynamic Chase Craft, has been almost unstoppable, and their defense has been equally imposing. Heidelberg will look to avenge their earlier loss to Bay Springs and continue their march to the state finals.

Key Performances:

• Offense: Chase Craft has been exceptional, with 75.6 rushing yards per game and 136.1 passing yards per game.
• Defense: Devin Tribble and Keyon Gilmore lead a defense that has been suffocating all season long.

Head-to-Head:

Bay Springs won the earlier season matchup 16-8 on September 13, 2024. However, Heidelberg has been playing at a different level since then, and this playoff game will be a chance for them to redeem themselves.

Team Stat Comparison

Key Players to Watch

• Bay Springs:
  • Dalyn Pierce (Quarterback): Pierce has been the leader of the offense, both through the air and on the ground. He’ll need a big performance to help the Bulldogs keep pace with Heidelberg’s explosive offense.
  • Myles Ross (Linebacker): Ross leads the defense and will be critical in trying to slow down Heidelberg’s powerful attack.
• Heidelberg:
  • Chase Craft (Quarterback/RB): Craft has been a dual-threat all season and is capable of taking over a game with both his arm and legs.
  • Devin Tribble (Linebacker): Tribble has been a leader on defense and will need to help contain Bay Springs’ offense.

Keys to Victory

For Bay Springs:

1. Control the Tempo: Bay Springs must slow the game down to limit Heidelberg’s offensive possessions. This can be achieved through ball control and a balanced offense.
2. Defensive Discipline: With Heidelberg’s high-scoring offense, Bay Springs’ defense must avoid giving up big plays and focus on keeping everything in front of them.
3. Exploit Defensive Weaknesses: Heidelberg’s defense, while strong, has shown some vulnerabilities. Bay Springs should look to exploit these with creative playcalling.

For Heidelberg:

1. Fast Start: Heidelberg’s offense thrives when they can score quickly and often. A fast start will put Bay Springs on the back foot and limit their ability to control the game.
2. Pressure the Quarterback: Bay Springs’ offense revolves around Dalyn Pierce. Heidelberg’s defense, with its ability to sack the quarterback, must put constant pressure on Pierce.
3. Capitalize on Turnovers: Heidelberg has the talent to capitalize on any mistakes Bay Springs makes. Their offense is potent enough to convert turnovers into quick points.

Prediction:

Heidelberg’s explosive offense and dominant defense make them the favorites, but Bay Springs’ strong defense and upset victory earlier in the season show they are capable of pulling off another surprise. While Bay Springs will keep it close, Heidelberg’s depth and firepower should ultimately prevail.