The Central Catholic (Pittsburgh, PA) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against State College (PA) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 6A tournament.

Central Catholic vs State College Football Game Info:

What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Central Catholic vs State College
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 6A
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Game preview: Central Catholic vs State College

As the high school football season intensifies, two powerhouse teams are making waves in their respective leagues: State College and Central Catholic. With impressive records and stellar performances, both teams have proven their dominance this year. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s break down their performance stats and team comparisons.

Records and Rankings

State College has been a force to reckon with in the Pennsylvania high school football scene. With an overall record of 11-1, they’ve posted a solid conference record of 8-1. Notably, their performance at home has been exceptional with a perfect 6-0 record. On the road, they’ve been nearly as strong with a 5-1 record. Their offensive and defensive performances have been key to their success, as they’ve scored 516 points while allowing just 142, giving them an impressive win percentage of .917 and a conference win percentage of .889.

On the other hand, Central Catholic has also been dominant this season. With a record of 10-2, they’ve been undefeated in conference play, boasting a perfect 7-0 record. Their balance between home and away games has been remarkable, with a 5-0 record at home and a solid 4-2 record on the road. Despite playing one neutral-site game, they’ve maintained an excellent overall win percentage of .833 and a perfect conference win percentage of 1.000. Their scoring has been just as potent, with 511 points scored and 170 points allowed.

Scoring Averages and Team Comparison

When comparing the two teams’ scoring averages, it’s clear that both sides are capable of putting up big numbers. State College averages a strong 43 points per game, with their most productive quarters being the first (14.3 points) and second (17.0 points). Central Catholic, while slightly behind, scores an impressive 42.6 points per game. Their strongest quarters come in the second (17.9 points) and third (8.2 points), but their scoring drops off significantly in the fourth quarter (just 2.5 points).

Statistical Breakdown

Both teams excel in different areas on offense and defense. State College’s offense is particularly potent in the air, averaging 272.7 passing yards per game and 272.7 receiving yards per game. They rely heavily on quarterback Eddie Corkery, who averages 236.3 passing yards per game. However, their rushing game, led by Lamar Wilson with 64 rushing yards per game, is less prominent compared to Central Catholic’s offensive balance.

Central Catholic is a more run-heavy team, averaging 167.6 rushing yards per game. Elijah Faulkner leads the charge with 100.1 rushing yards per game. In the passing game, they average 199.2 yards per game, with Jy’aire Walls contributing 190.4 yards per game. Total yards per game are similar, with State College averaging 386.9 total yards compared to Central Catholic’s 366.8 yards.

In terms of defense, State College excels in tackles per game, averaging 59.9, while Central Catholic follows with 50.8. Both teams are strong at sacking the quarterback, with State College averaging 2.3 sacks per game and Central Catholic slightly behind with 2.1.

Key Players

Both teams have standout players who have significantly contributed to their success this season:

• State College:
  • Lamar Wilson: 64.0 rushing yards per game
  • Eddie Corkery: 236.3 passing yards per game
  • Ty Salazer: 126.7 receiving yards per game and 11.0 points per game
• Central Catholic:
  • Elijah Faulkner: 100.1 rushing yards per game
  • Jy’aire Walls: 190.4 passing yards per game
  • Bradley Gompers: 68.5 receiving yards per game

Head-to-Head & Record Breakdown

Both teams have had strong seasons with a mixture of home, away, and neutral-site games. Here’s a breakdown of their records:

• State College:
  • Overall: 11-1
  • Conference: 8-1
  • Home: 6-0
  • Away: 5-1
  • Playoffs: 1-0
  • In-State: 10-1
• Central Catholic:
  • Overall: 10-2
  • Conference: 7-0
  • Home: 5-0
  • Away: 4-2
  • Playoffs: 1-0
  • In-State: 10-1

While both teams have enjoyed similar success, the stakes are high for a potential matchup, with both teams having demonstrated their ability to win in various situations.

Conclusion

As both State College and Central Catholic continue their respective playoff runs, it’s clear that both teams are primed for success. With their dominant records, high-scoring offenses, and solid defenses, this season promises to deliver thrilling moments. Should these two meet on the field, fans can expect a game full of exciting plays and high-level competition.