The East Forsyth varsity football team (Kernersville, NC) will host Butler (Matthews, NC) for a home playoff game today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A tournament.

Butler vs East Forsyth Football Game Info:

What: North Carolina High School Football Playoffs
Who: Butler vs East Forsyth
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
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Game preview: Butler vs East Forsyth

As the high school football season heads into the final stretch, a major matchup looms between Butler and East Forsyth. These two teams have displayed contrasting performances throughout the season, setting the stage for an exciting clash.

Team Overview

Butler (4-6 overall, 4-2 conference) has faced some challenges this season but has remained competitive, particularly in their conference games where they boast a strong 4-2 record. They’ve struggled on the road with a 2-3 away record but have shown resilience, especially in scoring, averaging 30.9 points per game. With standout players like Jayden Williams, who leads the team with 108.7 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Zach Lawrence, who has tallied 205 passing yards per game, Butler has the tools to put up a fight.

East Forsyth (10-0 overall, 7-0 conference) has been a juggernaut this season, finishing undefeated in both their overall and conference records. They are a powerhouse, averaging a staggering 52.8 points per game. Their offense has been exceptional, with quarterback Bryce Baker leading the charge with 262.9 passing yards per game, supported by standout receiver JP Gilchrist. East Forsyth has proven themselves a dominant force on both ends of the field, with their offense racking up impressive numbers, and their defense holding opponents to just 143 points all season.

Scoring Comparison

The two teams’ scoring averages reveal a stark contrast in offensive firepower. Butler averages 30.9 points per game, with their highest-scoring quarter coming in the second quarter (8.9 points). Meanwhile, East Forsyth averages an incredible 52.8 points per game, showcasing their explosive offense across all quarters, particularly in the first half, where they average 32.4 points.

Offensive & Defensive Breakdown

Butler’s offense has been balanced, with 193.8 rushing yards per game and 144.2 passing yards per game. However, their defense has allowed an average of 257 points this season. They’ve been strong in both the air and on the ground, with Jayden Williams leading the rushing attack and Zach Lawrence distributing the ball efficiently.

East Forsyth’s offense has been the most potent in the state, averaging 509.5 total yards per game—216.8 rushing yards and 292.7 passing yards. Their offensive line and playmaking ability have been key in their undefeated season. The defense, though, has been equally effective, allowing just 143 points all season and posting an average of 64.1 tackles per game.

Key Matchup

The key to the game will be whether Butler’s offense can keep up with the high-scoring attack of East Forsyth. With players like Jayden Williams (10.8 points per game) and Zach Lawrence (210 total yards per game), Butler has the capability to make it competitive. However, East Forsyth’s elite scoring ability, led by Bryce Baker and JP Gilchrist, will put Butler’s defense to the test. The Eagles’ ability to maintain their undefeated record will largely depend on continuing their dominance on both sides of the ball.

Player to Watch

For Butler, keep an eye on Jayden Williams, who has been a force on the ground with over 100 rushing yards per game. If he can find success against East Forsyth’s defense, Butler could create some offensive momentum.

For East Forsyth, Bryce Baker will be the player to watch. His passing game has been electric this season, and his connection with receiver JP Gilchrist could be the difference-maker in this high-stakes matchup.

Conclusion

This game promises to be an exciting battle between Butler’s gritty and balanced offense and East Forsyth’s high-powered, undefeated squad. With Butler looking to challenge the Eagles’ dominance, this showdown will be one to watch, as both teams look to make a statement in their respective seasons. Can Butler upset the undefeated streak of East Forsyth, or will the Eagles continue their march toward a perfect season? Only time will tell.