The Briar Woods varsity football team from Ashburn, VA, will host a playoff game against Massaponax High School from Spotsylvania, VA, tonight at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Briar Woods vs Massaponax
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 5 “
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Massaponax vs. Briar Woods: A Season in Review and Statistical Showdown
The 2024-2025 football season presented contrasting fortunes for the Massaponax and Briar Woods teams. While Briar Woods achieved an impressive 7-3 overall record, Massaponax struggled, ending their season at 2-9. Both teams showcased unique strengths and faced challenges that shaped their campaigns. Let’s dive into the key highlights and a statistical comparison.
Overall Performance
Massaponax endured a tough season, finishing with a 2-9 overall record and winless in their league (0-6). Their struggles were evident both at home (1-4) and on the road (1-5). Despite this, they managed to score 260 points while conceding 403, reflecting a resilient offense but a defense that often faltered.
Briar Woods, on the other hand, displayed consistent excellence with a 7-3 overall record, including a stellar 4-1 performance in their region. They were undefeated on the road (5-0), showcasing their ability to deliver under pressure away from home. Their scoring defense was particularly effective, allowing only 107 points across the season.
Scoring Averages
Both teams averaged similar points per game:
- Massaponax: 23.6
- Briar Woods: 23.7
The scoring breakdown revealed differences in pacing:
- Massaponax peaked in the fourth quarter (7.1 points on average).
- Briar Woods excelled in the second quarter (12.2 points), often taking control before halftime.
Statistical Comparisons
| Category | Massaponax | Briar Woods |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 256.0 | 148.1 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 77.0 | 177.1 |
| Total Yards/Game | 333.0 | 325.2 |
| Tackles/Game | 43.3 | 56.4 |
| Sacks/Game | 0.8 | 1.6 |
- Massaponax relied heavily on their ground game, with standout rusher Josiah Perry averaging 77 yards per game.
- Briar Woods showed a balanced attack, with quarterback Brady Carmical leading the air assault at 174.3 passing yards per game.
Key Players
- Massaponax:
- Josiah Perry (RB): 77 rushing yards/game, 9.2 points/game.
- Ian Shook Jr. (QB): 74.4 passing yards/game, 117.6 total yards/game.
- Joe Sanders III (LB): 5.7 tackles/game.
- Briar Woods:
- Brady Carmical (QB): 174.3 passing yards/game, 232.5 total yards/game.
- Colin Capistrant (WR): 62.6 receiving yards/game.
- Lucas Roser (LB): 8.8 tackles/game.
Common Opponents
Against shared opponents, both teams experienced mixed results:
- Massaponax went 2-1, including a dramatic 21-20 playoff win against Independence.
- Briar Woods recorded a 1-1 mark, highlighted by a convincing 27-13 victory over Independence.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Massaponax leaned on their rushing game, amassing over 256 yards per contest. However, their defensive shortcomings, particularly in sacks (0.8 per game), hindered their ability to pressure opposing offenses.
Briar Woods showcased a more versatile approach, combining an effective passing game and a strong defensive unit that averaged 56.4 tackles and 1.6 sacks per game. However, their performance dipped at home (2-3).
Looking Ahead
The season highlighted areas for improvement and potential for both teams:
- Massaponax needs to bolster its defense and diversify its offense to complement the ground game.
- Briar Woods can build on their success by improving consistency at home and further developing their passing attack.
As the teams prepare for future campaigns, their contrasting styles and strengths promise more exciting matchups in seasons to come.
