The Laurel varsity football team from Laurel, MT, will face Billings Central Catholic from Billings, MT, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Montana High School Football
Who: Billings Central Catholic vs Laurel
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Montana High School Football Playoff Brackets: MHSA – Class A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Billings Central Catholic vs. Laurel
The Billings Central Catholic Rams (11-0) will face off against the Laurel Locomotives (9-2) in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22. Billings Central Catholic enters the game undefeated, having dominated the regular season, while Laurel has had a strong but less consistent season, with two losses. This game promises to be a clash of powerful offenses and disciplined defenses.
Season Recap: Billings Central Catholic
- Record: 11-0
- Points For/Against: 438 PF, 96 PA
- Scoring Average: 39.8 points per game
Billings Central Catholic has been a powerhouse throughout the season, with a perfect 11-0 record. Their offense has been highly efficient, averaging 39.8 points per game, and their defense has been suffocating, allowing only 96 points. This is a team that is well-balanced on both sides of the ball, with a strong running game, solid passing attack, and an opportunistic defense.
Season Recap: Laurel
- Record: 9-2
- Points For/Against: 365 PF, 215 PA
- Scoring Average: 33.2 points per game
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Billings Central Catholic | Laurel |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 201.4 | 163.3 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 126.9 | 160.1 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 328.3 | 323.4 |
| Points Per Game | 38.0 | 30.0 |
| Tackles Per Game | 49.3 | 50.1 |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.4 | 1.6 |
Record Breakdown
| Category | Billings Central Catholic | Laurel |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 11-0 | 9-2 |
| League Record | 6-0 | 7-2 |
| Non-League Record | 7-0 | 5-1 |
| Playoff Record | 2-0 | 2-0 |
Keys to Victory
For Billings Central Catholic:
- Defensive Dominance: With the best defense in the state, Billings Central Catholic needs to limit Fox and Hunter, preventing Laurel from establishing their offensive rhythm.
- Balanced Offense: They should continue to balance the running game of Salter with the passing ability of Martin to keep the Laurel defense on its heels.
- Control the Clock: The Rams should aim to dominate time of possession with a strong rushing game and methodical drives.
For Laurel:
- Contain the Rams’ Offense: Laurel needs to limit the effectiveness of Salter and Martin, preventing big plays and forcing Billings Central to go to their passing game.
- Establish the Run: Fox will need to have a strong game on the ground to open up play-action passing for Hunter, creating opportunities for the offense.
- Defensive Pressure: Laurel’s defense will need to apply pressure on Martin, creating turnovers and getting off the field quickly to give their offense more chances.
Prediction:
Billings Central Catholic has been nearly unstoppable this season, and while Laurel has had a strong year, they may struggle to keep pace with the Rams’ well-balanced offense and stifling defense.
