The Tri-County Academy varsity football team from Flora, MS, will face Bowling Green from Franklinton, LA, 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: Bowling Green vs Tri-County Academy
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 MAIS High School Football Playoff Bracket – MAIS 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Bowling Green vs. Tri-County Academy
In a highly anticipated playoff game, Bowling Green (8-3) faces off against Tri-County Academy (12-0). Both teams have had strong seasons, but the undefeated Tri-County Academy enters as the clear favorite, with an unblemished record and a dominant performance throughout the season. Bowling Green, however, has the ability to pull off an upset with its solid all-around play. This game will showcase the strength of Tri-County’s offense against Bowling Green’s balanced attack.
Season Recap: Bowling Green Buccaneers
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 3-0
- Points For/Against: 333 PF, 224 PA
- Scoring Average: 30.3 points per game
Bowling Green has had a strong season, including a perfect district record, and has shown resilience in close games. Their offense has been consistent, scoring an average of 30 points per game, and their defense has kept them competitive even in tough non-league matchups. Bowling Green’s ability to win both at home and on the road has been a key to their success.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Bowling Green’s offense has been led by a balanced attack, with solid contributions in both the passing and running game.
- Defense: The defense has been effective at limiting big plays, and it will be crucial in slowing down Tri-County’s explosive offense.
Season Recap: Tri-County Academy Rebels
- Record: 12-0
- District Record: 4-0
- Points For/Against: 475 PF, 91 PA
- Scoring Average: 39.6 points per game
Tri-County Academy enters the playoff with an undefeated record and a dominant offensive and defensive performance. Averaging nearly 40 points per game while allowing just 91 points all season, the Rebels have been nearly unstoppable. They have shown depth in all phases of the game, and their defense has been suffocating. Tri-County’s high-scoring offense will be their strength in this matchup.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Tri-County’s offense, averaging nearly 40 points per game, has been led by Christian Alexander, a key contributor in both rushing and passing.
- Defense: Their defense has been stellar, with strong players leading the charge in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities.
Head-to-Head:
Both teams have played common opponents this season, with each side recording wins in these matchups.
- Bowling Green defeated Central Hinds Academy (52-21), Columbia Academy (27-14), Centreville Academy (29-21), and St. Aloysius (34-6).
- Tri-County Academy also defeated these teams, including a 33-6 win over Central Hinds Academy, a 21-7 win over Columbia Academy, and a dominant 39-0 victory over St. Aloysius.
While Bowling Green has faced and defeated these teams, Tri-County’s superior margin of victory in similar matchups has been a key factor in their success.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Bowling Green | Tri-County Academy |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Points Per Game | 30.3 | 39.6 |
| Tackles Per Game | – | – |
| Sacks Per Game | – | – |
Key Players to Watch
- Bowling Green:
- Offensive Playmakers: Bowling Green’s ability to win will depend on their ability to execute offensively. They need a balanced attack with solid contributions from both the run game and passing game.
- Defensive Playmakers: Their defense will need to find ways to contain Tri-County’s high-powered offense, making key stops to limit scoring opportunities.
- Tri-County Academy:
- Christian Alexander (Total yards per game): Alexander has been a standout playmaker and will be a key factor in Tri-County’s offense. His ability to break through Bowling Green’s defense will be critical.
- Defensive Leaders: Tri-County’s defense has been formidable all season, and they will look to continue that dominance in this matchup.
Keys to Victory
For Bowling Green:
- Limit Big Plays: Bowling Green must focus on limiting Tri-County’s big plays, especially on offense.
- Control the Clock: They need to sustain long drives, control possession, and keep Tri-County’s offense off the field as much as possible.
- Balanced Offense: A well-balanced offensive attack will help keep Tri-County’s defense on its heels.
For Tri-County Academy:
- Exploit Offensive Firepower: Tri-County has an explosive offense, and they should look to maximize their opportunities by using the full range of their offensive weapons.
- Stifling Defense: Their defense should continue its strong play, shutting down Bowling Green’s offensive attempts before they gain momentum.
- Stay Disciplined: Tri-County should avoid costly mistakes and turnovers that could give Bowling Green a chance to get back into the game.
Prediction:
Given Tri-County Academy’s undefeated season and their explosive offense, they are the clear favorites in this matchup. Bowling Green, while a strong team, will need to execute a perfect game to challenge Tri-County’s dominance. Tri-County’s defense and high-powered offense should carry them to a victory.
