The Blue Ridge varsity football team (St. George, VA) will host a home playoff game against North Cross (Roanoke, VA) today at 1:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Blue Ridge vs North Cross
When: Today, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VISAA State Football Playoffs – Division II”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

North Cross vs. Blue Ridge: Analyzing the Standout High School Football Teams

The high school football scene in Virginia has been dominated by two powerhouse teams this season: North Cross (9-1) and Blue Ridge (10-0). As their impressive records suggest, both teams have excelled with unique styles and standout performances, setting up an intriguing comparison. Here’s a deep dive into their rankings, records, and key stats.

Team Records and Rankings

• North Cross (Division 33):
  • Overall Record: 9-1
  • Region Record: 2-0
  • Home Record: 5-0
  • Away Record: 4-1
  • Points For (PF): 373
  • Points Against (PA): 76
  • Win Percentage: 90%
• Blue Ridge (Division 34):
  • Overall Record: 10-0
  • Home Record: 6-0
  • Away Record: 4-0
  • Points For (PF): 454
  • Points Against (PA): 160
  • Win Percentage: 100%

Offensive and Defensive Strengths

• North Cross:
  North Cross showcases a balanced attack, excelling in both rushing and passing games. With 243.4 total yards per game, they thrive on their aerial offense, averaging 158 passing yards per game. Defensively, they’ve been nearly impenetrable, allowing only 76 points this season.
  • Key Player: Quarterback Brock Miles has been a standout, averaging 197.7 passing yards per game and contributing significantly to their offensive success.
• Blue Ridge:
  Blue Ridge has displayed a dominant offensive performance, scoring an average of 45.4 points per game. Their ground game is a force to be reckoned with, spearheaded by Darius Stafford, who averages a staggering 188 rushing yards per game.
  • Key Player: Quarterback Luke Wuhrer leads the passing game with 241 passing yards per game, making him a dual-threat alongside Stafford.

Scoring Trends

• North Cross: Consistency defines their scoring strategy, with strong performances in the first and second quarters, averaging 9.0 and 11.3 points, respectively. Their ability to close out games remains solid, with 9.0 points in the fourth quarter.
  • Average Points Per Game: 37.3
• Blue Ridge: Blue Ridge starts games explosively, averaging a massive 21 points in the first quarter. Though their pace slows in the later quarters, their initial dominance often leaves opponents playing catch-up.
  • Average Points Per Game: 45.4

Common Opponents

Both teams faced Atlantic Shores Christian and Fredericksburg Christian, and the results highlight their dominance:

• North Cross:
  • Defeated Atlantic Shores Christian 35-8.
  • Shut out Fredericksburg Christian 48-0.
• Blue Ridge:
  • Defeated Atlantic Shores Christian twice, 42-19 and 48-20.
  • Overpowered Fredericksburg Christian 49-6.

Key Statistical Comparisons

Outlook and Conclusion

While Blue Ridge boasts an undefeated record and explosive offense, North Cross counters with a balanced attack and stifling defense. Blue Ridge’s high-scoring first quarters could be decisive, but North Cross has proven its ability to adapt and dominate defensively.

If these two teams were to face off, the clash of styles would undoubtedly make for a thrilling spectacle. Blue Ridge’s offensive firepower might test North Cross’s solid defense, while North Cross’s passing game could exploit gaps in Blue Ridge’s secondary. Either way, fans can expect a matchup that highlights the best of Virginia high school football.