The Lift for Life Academy varsity football team (St. Louis, MO) faces Burroughs (St. Louis, MO) in a neutral playoff game today at 1 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 3 tournament.

Burroughs vs Lift for Life Academy Football Game Info:

What: Missouri High School Football Playoffs
Who: Burroughs vs Lift for Life Academy
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 9.m.
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Game preview: Burroughs vs Lift for Life Academy

As the high school football playoffs heat up, Burroughs and Lift for Life Academy are set to clash in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Both teams bring unique strengths and styles to the field, with Burroughs holding the edge in rushing and overall offensive production, while Lift for Life Academy boasts a dynamic passing game and a solid playoff track record. Here’s a closer look at the key statistics, players, and previous performances heading into the big game.

Team Comparison

Offensive Output

Burroughs has established itself as a ground-dominant team, averaging a staggering 207.8 rushing yards per game. The Bulldogs’ rushing attack is spearheaded by Dylan Macon, who averages 117.5 yards per game, significantly above the national average of 20.3. Complementing their ground game is quarterback Max Steinbach, who averages 98 passing yards per game, contributing to a total of 303.5 offensive yards per game.

In contrast, Lift for Life Academy leans heavily on its aerial attack, with Mikey Gerdine leading the charge at 132.8 passing yards per game, well above the national average of 51.5. Gerdine’s favorite target, Ekeilan Henderson, adds 58.5 receiving yards per game. Despite their less prolific rushing attack, the Hawks still manage a respectable 248 total yards per game.

Defensive Strengths

Both teams are evenly matched defensively, with Burroughs averaging 46.6 tackles per game compared to Lift for Life Academy’s 41.8. Players like Brendan Purcell (7.0 tackles per game) and Noah Rigel (6.9 tackles per game) anchor their respective defenses. Each team also records 1.1 sacks per game, highlighting their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

Scoring Prowess

Burroughs holds a slight edge in points per game, averaging 32.8 compared to Lift for Life Academy’s 31.7. This marginal difference suggests that the game could hinge on defensive stops and big plays from key players.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Although Burroughs and Lift for Life Academy have not faced each other this season, they share two common opponents—Lutheran South and Roosevelt/Carnahan. Both teams dominated these matchups, with Burroughs outscoring their opponents 87-13 and Lift for Life Academy delivering an even more lopsided 78-2 performance. These results indicate that both squads are capable of delivering explosive performances against common foes.

Key Players to Watch

Burroughs

• Dylan Macon (#19): With 117.5 rushing yards and 13.1 points per game, Macon is the engine of the Bulldogs’ offense. His ability to break tackles and find the end zone makes him a game-changer.
• Max Steinbach (#15): A dual-threat quarterback, Steinbach contributes 150.3 total yards per game, showcasing his versatility as both a passer and a playmaker.
• Brendan Purcell (#18): Leading the defense with 7.0 tackles per game, Purcell is a key figure in containing Lift for Life’s high-powered passing game.

Lift for Life Academy

• Mikey Gerdine (#2): Averaging 132.8 passing yards per game, Gerdine is the focal point of the Hawks’ offense. His ability to distribute the ball accurately will be critical.
• Ekeilan Henderson (#7): As the top receiver with 58.5 receiving yards per game, Henderson will need to stretch the field and create opportunities for big plays.
• Malachi Johnson (#31): A consistent presence on the defensive line, Johnson’s ability to disrupt the backfield will be crucial in slowing down Burroughs’ run game.

Season Performance

Burroughs boasts a 9-2 overall record, including an undefeated 4-0 non-league performance and a perfect 2-0 playoff record. Their only two losses came in league play, where they went 3-2. Meanwhile, Lift for Life Academy has had an up-and-down season, finishing 6-5 overall with a 2-0 league record. Their playoff experience, however, could give them an edge in a high-stakes environment.

Final Thoughts

This game is shaping up to be a battle of contrasting styles. Burroughs will aim to dominate on the ground, controlling the clock and wearing down Lift for Life Academy’s defense. Conversely, Lift for Life Academy will rely on their high-flying passing attack to put up points quickly.

With both teams evenly matched in several key areas, fans can expect a tightly contested game where the outcome could come down to which team capitalizes on critical moments. Whether it’s a defensive stop, a clutch pass, or a game-breaking run, the stage is set for an unforgettable playoff showdown.