The Sidney (NE) varsity football team will face Central City (NE) in a neutral playoff game today at 5 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 NSAA State Football Championships (Nebraska) – Class C1 tournament.

Central City vs Sidney Football Game Info:

What: Nebraska High School Football Playoffs
Who: Central City vs Sidney
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m.
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Game preview: Central City vs Sidney

Two powerhouse high school football teams, Sidney and Central City, are set to face off in a much-anticipated playoff game. Both teams boast impressive records and rankings, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling contest.

Team Overview: Dominance on Both Sides

Sidney enters the matchup undefeated with an 11-0 record, showcasing their dominance both at home and on the road. Their defense has been stellar, allowing just 71 points all season, while their offense averages 32 points per game.

Central City, not to be outdone, boasts a 10-1 record. Their lone loss came in a nail-biter against Cozad (56-55), a team Sidney managed to defeat earlier in the season. Central City’s offensive firepower is evident, averaging 42.4 points per game and outscoring opponents by a total of 502-223 this season.

Head-to-Head: Key Statistical Comparisons

Central City has the edge in total yardage, averaging 444.3 yards per game compared to Sidney’s 373.1. This is driven by a balanced attack, with 217.3 rushing yards and 227.0 passing yards per game. Sidney counters with a similarly well-rounded offense, highlighted by standout performances from quarterback Alek Doty, who averages 177.5 passing yards per game, and running back Alek Doty with 93.4 rushing yards per game.

Defensively, Sidney holds the edge with 64.6 tackles per game, led by Keian Kaiser, who averages 10.4 tackles. Central City, while slightly behind at 58.9 tackles per game, has seen strong contributions from Jacob Brazee, averaging 6.2 tackles per game.

Player Matchups to Watch

• Central City’s Offensive Stars: Quarterback Parker Zikmund is a dual threat, averaging 215.4 passing yards and 218.5 total yards per game. Running back Corbin Kyes is another key player, leading the team with 169 rushing yards per game and 15.3 points per game.
• Sidney’s Game Changers: Alek Doty is the centerpiece of Sidney’s offense, contributing both as a rusher and passer. Wide receiver Landon Riddle adds an explosive element with 92.7 receiving yards per game.

Scoring Trends

Central City has a knack for fast starts, averaging 16.2 points in the first quarter, while Sidney’s defense excels late, holding opponents to just 3.0 points in the fourth quarter on average. This contrast could prove pivotal in a close game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Cozad and Minden this season, with Sidney emerging victorious in both matchups, including a 22-13 win over Cozad. Central City split their games, losing a high-scoring affair to Cozad but shutting out Minden 41-0.

Playoff Momentum

Both teams are riding high on playoff victories. Central City has shown resilience in close games, while Sidney’s unbeaten record reflects their consistency and dominance.

What’s at Stake

With both teams undefeated in district play and performing at the top of their class, this game is more than just a playoff battle—it’s a clash of titans with potential state championship implications.

As the game approaches, all eyes will be on this thrilling matchup. Whether it’s Central City’s high-octane offense or Sidney’s lockdown defense, fans can expect a high-energy game that showcases the best of Nebraska high school football.