The Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, NJ) varsity football team will face Bergen Catholic (Oradell, NJ) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 8:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: New Jersey High School Football
Who: Bergen Catholic vs Don Bosco Prep
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Non-Public A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Bergen Catholic vs. Don Bosco Prep
The 2024 New Jersey high school football playoffs are set for a highly anticipated rematch between Bergen Catholic (10-1) and Don Bosco Prep (8-3). These two elite programs have a long-standing rivalry, and with both teams coming off strong seasons, this game promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Season Recap
Bergen Catholic
- Record: 10-1
- Division Rank: 1 (NJ, Division 1)
- Points Scored: 363
- Points Allowed: 139
- Key Player: Running back Najee Calhoun, who leads the offense with 107.4 rushing yards per game, helping balance an explosive offense that averages 33.0 points per game.
- Strengths:
- Balanced offense, combining a strong rushing attack with effective passing.
- Dominic Campanile (QB): A dual-threat quarterback contributing 179.3 passing yards per game.
- Stout defense with 56.9 tackles per game and an ability to pressure the opposing quarterbacks with 1.9 sacks per game.
Don Bosco Prep
- Record: 8-3
- Division Rank: 2 (NJ, Division 1)
- Points Scored: 367
- Points Allowed: 131
- Key Player: Quarterback Deven Sisler, who averages 156.4 passing yards per game, leading a quick-strike offense.
- Strengths:
- Isaiah Alvarez (WR): The top receiving option, averaging 52.6 receiving yards per game.
- Strong defense with 9.0 tackles per game by Matt Occhipinti, and the ability to create turnovers.
- A strong pass rush, with Kyle Ramos generating 1.5 sacks per game.
Key Stats and Comparisons
| Category | Bergen Catholic | Don Bosco Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 33.0 | 33.4 |
| Points Allowed/Game | 12.6 | 11.9 |
| Total Yards/Game | 358.5 | 263.1 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 181.1 | 140.8 |
| Rushing Yards/Game | 177.4 | 122.3 |
| Sacks/Game | 1.9 | 0.7 |
| Tackles/Game | 56.9 | 8.0 |
Bergen Catholic’s more well-rounded attack and stronger offensive and defensive numbers stand out. They have a versatile offense with a higher total yardage output, whereas Don Bosco Prep excels in key areas like defense and quarterback play but has fewer total yards per game.
Players to Watch
Bergen Catholic
- Najee Calhoun (RB): The workhorse back, Calhoun will be pivotal in controlling the clock and creating big plays on the ground.
- Dominic Campanile (QB): A strong passer and decision-maker, Campanile’s ability to distribute the ball will be critical against Don Bosco’s defense.
- Quincy Porter (WR): A go-to target for Campanile, with 85.5 receiving yards per game, Porter can stretch the field vertically.
Don Bosco Prep
- Deven Sisler (QB): The senior quarterback will need to lead his offense with precision and composure, looking to connect with his playmakers.
- Isaiah Alvarez (WR): A reliable receiving threat, Alvarez’s speed and hands will be critical to unlocking the passing game.
- Matt Occhipinti (LB): One of the key defenders, Occhipinti will be tasked with containing Calhoun and disrupting the passing game.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
In their previous meeting on September 28, 2024, Bergen Catholic narrowly defeated Don Bosco Prep 24-20 in a thrilling contest. The game was closely contested, with Don Bosco Prep managing to keep the score tight through solid second-half adjustments. Bergen Catholic’s Quincy Porter caught a pivotal touchdown, and their defense held strong late in the game to secure the victory.
Common Opponents Insights
Both teams have faced common opponents this season and have shown dominance:
- Bergen Catholic:
- Defeated Paramus Catholic 34-0, St. Joseph Regional 28-17, and Seton Hall Prep by significant margins.
- Don Bosco Prep:
- Dominated Paramus Catholic 42-0 and Seton Hall Prep 28-0, and also defeated St. Joseph Regional 35-28.
These results underscore the strength of both teams against high-quality opponents, setting up a clash of titans.
Prediction
Both teams come into the game with solid momentum, but Bergen Catholic’s overall depth, balanced offense, and stronger defensive stats give them the upper hand. However, Don Bosco Prep is dangerous with their explosive players like Sisler and Alvarez, and they will be eager to avenge their earlier loss.
