The Catawba Ridge (Fort Mill, SC) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Woodmont (Piedmont, SC) on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Catawba Ridge vs Woodmont
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2
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Game preview: Catawba Ridge vs Woodmont

As the football season progresses, Woodmont and Catawba Ridge stand out for their contrasting records and performances. With just a handful of games left, both teams have shown unique strengths and weaknesses, and a closer look at their statistics provides an intriguing comparison.

Woodmont’s Struggles and Strengths

Woodmont, with an overall record of 3-7, has faced its fair share of challenges. Their region record stands at 2-5, with a home record of 2-3 and an away record of 1-4. Despite their losing record, Woodmont’s offense has shown flashes of potential, averaging 24.2 points per game, with their strongest quarter being the fourth, where they average 7.8 points. Their rushing attack, led by Ezekiel Belcher, has been the heart of the offense, producing 188.1 yards per game. However, Woodmont’s defense has been unable to consistently hold up, allowing 373 points over the season, which amounts to an average of 37.3 points per game.

On offense, Woodmont leans heavily on Belcher, who is also a top receiving threat with 29.8 yards per game. Quarterback Jordan Sink has thrown for 106.5 yards per game, contributing to the team’s passing game. Despite the offensive yardage, Woodmont has been unable to secure many wins, with a win percentage of just .300.

Catawba Ridge’s Dominant Run

In stark contrast, Catawba Ridge boasts a much more impressive 7-3 overall record and a 4-2 region record. The team’s home and away performances have been well-balanced, with a 2-3 record at home but a perfect 5-0 record on the road. Catawba Ridge’s offense is high-powered, averaging 29 points per game. Their offensive attack is led by the dynamic duo of quarterback CJ Couch and wide receiver Darius Sutton. Couch is responsible for 248.8 passing yards per game, contributing to Catawba Ridge’s 270.2 passing yards per game. Sutton, with 69.9 receiving yards per game, has been one of the most reliable playmakers.

Catawba Ridge’s rushing attack has been more modest, with Brayden Wasik averaging 35.2 rushing yards per game. Despite this, the team has accumulated a total of 328.3 yards per game, a testament to the efficiency of their passing game. On defense, Catawba Ridge has averaged 65.8 tackles per game and has been effective in pressuring the quarterback, registering 2.7 sacks per game.

Key Matchups

• Rushing: Woodmont has a clear advantage on the ground, averaging 304.9 rushing yards per game compared to Catawba Ridge’s 58.1. This could be a critical factor in controlling the clock and keeping the potent Catawba Ridge offense off the field.
• Passing: Catawba Ridge’s passing game stands out, averaging 270.2 yards per game compared to Woodmont’s 68.7. With Couch’s arm and a talented group of receivers, Catawba Ridge has shown a high level of offensive execution through the air.
• Scoring: Catawba Ridge has outpaced Woodmont significantly in terms of scoring, with an average of 28.7 points per game, compared to Woodmont’s 17.4. This difference could prove crucial in a head-to-head matchup.

Leaders to Watch

For Woodmont, Ezekiel Belcher is the standout player, leading the team with 222.7 total yards per game, including 188.1 rushing yards per game. His ability to carry the offense will be crucial if Woodmont hopes to upset Catawba Ridge.

Catawba Ridge’s most dangerous weapon is quarterback CJ Couch, who has amassed 248.8 passing yards per game. His ability to connect with Sutton and other receivers could be the key to breaking down Woodmont’s defense. Sutton’s 69.9 receiving yards per game makes him a consistent deep threat that can stretch any defense.

Final Thoughts

Woodmont and Catawba Ridge are heading in different directions this season. Catawba Ridge enters with momentum, having secured a solid 7-3 record, while Woodmont faces an uphill battle with a 3-7 mark. Catawba Ridge’s aerial attack and solid defense could pose significant challenges for Woodmont, who will rely on a strong rushing game to keep the ball out of their opponents’ hands. With both teams having strengths in different areas, this matchup promises to be an exciting one for fans looking to see how the teams’ contrasting styles play out on the field.