The Masuk (Monroe, CT) varsity football team will host the Bunnell Bulldogs (Stratford, CT) today at 12:30 PM in a crucial home playoff game at Masuk High School. This contest is part of the 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets for CIAC Class MM.
Bunnell vs. Masuk Game Info:
- What: Connecticut High School Football
- Who: Bunnell vs. Masuk
- When: Sunday, December 8, 2024
- Time: 12:30 PM
- Bracket: 2024 CIAC Class MM Playoffs
- Live Stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Bunnell vs. Masuk
Bunnell enters the game with a strong 9-2 overall record, having finished the regular season with a 5-2 league mark. The Bulldogs come off an undefeated 5-0 home record and are led by quarterback Steven Mendoza and running back KK Smalls. Their balanced offensive attack has averaged 31.6 points per game, with 235 rushing yards per game and 154 passing yards per game. Bunnell’s defense has been solid all season, but they will face a potent Masuk offense.
Masuk brings an 8-3 record into this matchup, with a 4-3 mark in league play. Although they were defeated by Bunnell 21-0 earlier in the season, Masuk has proven themselves to be a formidable team. The Panthers’ offense, spearheaded by quarterback Aaron Champagne and wide receiver Shane Walker, has averaged 33.5 points per game. Champagne, who leads the team with 214.4 total yards per game, has been a dual-threat playmaker. Walker, with 111.3 receiving yards per game, is another key player to watch for Masuk’s aerial attack.
Team Comparison: Offense & Defense
Offensive Statistics:
- Bunnell: 389.0 total yards per game (235.0 rushing, 154.0 passing)
- Masuk: 314.5 total yards per game (107.7 rushing, 206.7 passing)
Bunnell has the edge in rushing, with 235 yards per game led by Smalls’ 107.4 rushing yards per game. On the other hand, Masuk has a more potent passing attack, with Champagne leading the way and averaging 214.4 total yards per game.
Defensive Statistics:
- Bunnell: 83.1 tackles per game, 2.7 sacks per game
- Masuk: 61.3 tackles per game, 3.0 sacks per game
Bunnell’s defense has been strong all season, but Masuk’s ability to pressure the quarterback—averaging 3.0 sacks per game—will be critical in slowing down the Bulldogs’ offense.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced a handful of common opponents, with varying results. In their matchups against Brookfield, both teams suffered losses, with Bunnell falling 21-0 and Masuk losing 28-14. When facing New Milford, Bunnell won 49-0 while Masuk triumphed 42-7. However, both teams were defeated by Newtown, with Bunnell losing 60-29 and Masuk falling 35-18. These results highlight the competitiveness of both teams, despite challenges against the stronger squads in the league.
Key Players to Watch:
- Bunnell:
- KK Smalls (RB): Smalls has been a key part of Bunnell’s offense, averaging 107.4 rushing yards per game.
- Steven Mendoza (QB): Mendoza has been efficient under center, contributing 151.8 passing yards per game to keep Bunnell’s offense balanced.
- Masuk:
- Aaron Champagne (QB): Champagne is the driving force of Masuk’s offense, with a combined 214.4 total yards per game, making him a dual-threat both in the air and on the ground.
- Shane Walker (WR): Walker is Masuk’s top receiver, averaging 111.3 yards per game, and is a key target for Champagne.
Conclusion
This Class MM playoff game promises to be a hard-fought battle between two well-matched teams. Bunnell’s balanced offensive attack and strong defense will face off against Masuk’s explosive passing game and solid defense. While Bunnell won their earlier meeting this season, Masuk’s ability to adjust and execute in key moments could play a significant role in this matchup. Fans can expect an intense and exciting contest as these teams compete for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
