The Bishop Hendricken (Warwick, RI) varsity football team will face Cumberland (RI) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the “RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – State Championship (D.1) Bracket” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Rhode Island High School Football
Who: Bishop Hendricken vs Cumberland
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – State Championship (D.1) Bracket
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Game preview: Bishop Hendricken vs Cumberland

As the 2024-2025 high school football season heats up, the Cumberland Clippers (4-4) and Bishop Hendricken Hawks (5-4) are set to face off in a crucial neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 15 at 7:00 PM. This game marks a rematch of their September 20th encounter, where Bishop Hendricken emerged victorious with a commanding 35-12 win. Let’s break down the teams, their performances, and what to expect from this highly anticipated matchup.

Team Performance Overview

Cumberland Clippers

• Overall Record: 4-4
• League Record: 4-4
• Home Record: 2-2
• Away Record: 2-2
• Points For (PF): 144
• Points Against (PA): 140
• Win Percentage: .500
• League Win Percentage: .500

Cumberland has had a balanced season with an equal number of wins and losses, showcasing solid offensive and defensive efforts. The Clippers average 23.1 points per game and have demonstrated significant improvements as the season has progressed. They come into the playoffs with the hope of overcoming their previous defeat against Bishop Hendricken.

Bishop Hendricken Hawks

• Overall Record: 5-4
• League Record: 5-2
• Home Record: 2-1
• Away Record: 3-3
• Points For (PF): 228
• Points Against (PA): 162
• Win Percentage: .556
• League Win Percentage: .714

Bishop Hendricken enters the playoffs with a stronger league record, having finished 5-2 in conference play. With a potent offense that averages 25.3 points per game, they have demonstrated a consistent ability to put up big numbers. Their defense, though allowing an average of 162 points on the season, has been opportunistic, particularly in the second half of games.

Scoring Comparison

• Cumberland Scoring:
  • Q1: 2.0
  • Q2: 4.3
  • Q3: 7.7
  • Q4: 0
  • Average Points Per Game: 18.0
• Bishop Hendricken Scoring:
  • Q1: 7.0
  • Q2: 9.3
  • Q3: 12.3
  • Q4: 3.3
  • Average Points Per Game: 25.3

Cumberland’s scoring trends suggest a slow start to games, with a particularly strong third quarter. However, the lack of scoring in the fourth quarter has been a challenge for them. In contrast, Bishop Hendricken has been consistently strong throughout the game, especially in the second and third quarters.

Head-to-Head

In their previous matchup on September 20, 2024, Bishop Hendricken dominated Cumberland with a 35-12 victory. Despite a competitive start, Cumberland’s offense sputtered in the second half, while Bishop Hendricken surged, particularly with their 14-point third quarter.

Key Players to Watch

Cumberland:

• Jeremy Dennis (Rushing): Leading the team with 68.5 rushing yards per game, Dennis is a key offensive weapon for the Clippers.
• Dylan Lynch (Passing): With 163.5 passing yards per game, Lynch will need to have a standout performance to lead Cumberland to victory.
• Sebastian Lora (Receiving): Lora is a top target for Lynch, averaging 52.3 receiving yards per game.

Bishop Hendricken:

• Okah Wali (Tackles): Wali anchors the defense with 5.9 tackles per game and will be crucial in stopping Cumberland’s offensive plays.
• Jeremy Seidi (Sacks): With 0.5 sacks per game, Seidi will be looking to disrupt Cumberland’s quarterback and create pressure in the backfield.
• Ryan Snodgrass (Tackles): Snodgrass brings stability to the defense, contributing 11.5 tackles per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Portsmouth this season, with Cumberland securing a 21-6 win on October 18, while Bishop Hendricken lost to Portsmouth 24-21 on November 1. This indicates that while both teams can compete at a high level, Bishop Hendricken may have had tougher competition down the stretch.

What to Expect

The Cumberland Clippers will need to find a way to start strong and sustain their offense through the entire game, avoiding the offensive droughts that plagued them in their earlier match. On the other hand, Bishop Hendricken will look to continue its balanced attack and capitalize on Cumberland’s late-game struggles.

As the playoffs loom, both teams are eager to prove themselves on a neutral field. With a solid offensive lineup and experience in high-pressure situations, Bishop Hendricken enters as the favorite. However, Cumberland’s resilience and the potential for an upset make this game one to watch.

Who will advance to the next stage? Find out this Friday night at 7 PM.