The Booker T. Washington varsity football team from Miami, FL, will host Cardinal Gibbons from Fort Lauderdale, FL, in a home playoff game tonight at 7:30 PM at Booker T. Washington High School. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the 2A division.

Cardinal Gibbons vs Booker T. Washington High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: CGHS vs BTWHS
When: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 7:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 2A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Cardinal Gibbons vs Booker T. Washington

The 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships continue tonight as Booker T. Washington (8-2) takes on Cardinal Gibbons (7-4) in a highly anticipated 2A playoff game at 7:30 PM in Miami. Both teams bring unique strengths to this pivotal matchup, making it a must-watch contest.

Season Recap and Team Profiles

Cardinal Gibbons Chiefs (7-4)

Ranked 85th in Florida and 12th in their class, the Chiefs have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly through their prolific passing attack. Led by quarterback Jayden Torres, who averages 253.6 passing yards and 286.5 total yards per game, the offense has been the driving force for Cardinal Gibbons. Wide receiver Tyler Jackson has been a key target, averaging 96.1 receiving yards and 6.5 points per game.

However, the Chiefs have struggled on the road, going 1-3 away from home this season. Their defense, averaging just 1.2 sacks per game, will need to elevate its performance against a balanced Booker T. Washington offense.

Booker T. Washington Tornadoes (8-2)

Booker T. Washington enters the game ranked 65th in Florida and 8th in their class. Their well-rounded approach has led to an undefeated 5-0 home record this season. Quarterback Nylan Maine drives the offense with 158.6 passing yards per game and a total yardage average of 207.1. Running back Irwin James adds 72.1 rushing yards per game and leads the team with 6.7 points per game.

Defensively, the Tornadoes shine with a strong pass rush, averaging 3.5 sacks per game, led by Eli Rauls. Their defense allows just 16.1 points per game, which could be crucial against Cardinal Gibbons’ high-powered offense.

Key Matchups to Watch

Cardinal Gibbons Passing Attack vs. Booker T. Washington Secondary

The Chiefs rely heavily on their passing game, averaging 304.6 yards through the air. The Tornadoes’ secondary, backed by a strong pass rush, will need to disrupt Torres and limit big plays from Jackson.

Booker T. Washington Ground Game vs. Cardinal Gibbons Defense

With an edge in rushing yards per game (132.5 vs. 106.1), Booker T. Washington will aim to control the clock and wear down the Chiefs’ defense. Irwin James is expected to play a pivotal role in this strategy.

What’s at Stake

A win tonight would propel the victor deeper into the 2A state championship bracket and solidify their claim as one of Florida’s top teams in the division. For Booker T. Washington, protecting their home turf is critical, while Cardinal Gibbons will look to overcome their road struggles and pull off a statement win.

Prediction

Both teams boast talented rosters and compelling storylines, but Booker T. Washington’s home dominance and defensive edge give them the slight upper hand. Expect a closely contested game as these two storied programs battle for playoff glory.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM at Booker T. Washington High School. Fans can anticipate an electrifying matchup under the lights.