The Bakersfield Christian varsity football team will host Central Valley Christian in a home playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM. This exciting matchup is part of the 2024 CIF Central Section Football Championships – Division II, with both teams battling for a chance to advance in the tournament.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: California High School Football Playoff
Who: Central Valley Christian vs Bakersfield Christian
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 CIF Central Section Football Championships – Division II
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Bakersfield Christian vs. Central Valley Christian
The 2024 CIF Central Section Football Championships – Division II continues with a compelling playoff matchup as the Bakersfield Christian Eagles host the Central Valley Christian Cavaliers on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM. Both teams bring strong credentials and contrasting styles to this critical postseason clash.
Team Records and Rankings
Bakersfield Christian enters the game ranked 88th in California and 8th in the Central Section, reflecting their dominance this season. The Eagles boast an impressive 10-2 overall record, with a flawless 4-0 league performance and a perfect 5-0 record in away games. At home, they’ve been equally formidable, going 5-2. With a .833 win percentage, they have outscored opponents 417 to 176, showcasing a balanced and powerful team.
Central Valley Christian, ranked 134th in California and 13th in the section, has demonstrated resilience with an 8-4 overall record. The Cavaliers have a solid league record of 3-1 and have shown they can compete on the road, going 4-3 in away games. Their .667 win percentage is backed by a scoring total of 300 points, though their defense has allowed 236.
Scoring Patterns
The Eagles hold a decisive edge in offensive production, averaging 34.8 points per game compared to the Cavaliers’ 25.0. Bakersfield Christian spreads its scoring effectively across all four quarters, with their highest average of 11.5 points in the second quarter. This consistency makes them a tough opponent to contain.
Central Valley Christian, while scoring fewer points overall, shines early in games, averaging 8.8 points in the first quarter. However, their production dips in the middle quarters, with slight recoveries in the fourth. They will need to maintain their momentum throughout the game to keep up with the Eagles.
Key Matchup Factors
The game’s outcome may hinge on Central Valley Christian’s ability to counter Bakersfield Christian’s balanced attack. The Cavaliers must capitalize on their strong starts and find ways to maintain pressure in the second half. For the Eagles, home-field advantage and their ability to score consistently across quarters could give them the upper hand.
With both teams vying for a spot in the next round, this playoff clash promises high stakes and intense action. Fans can expect a spirited battle under the Friday night lights as these two Division II contenders leave it all on the field.
The clash between Central Valley Christian (8-4) and Bakersfield Christian (10-2) highlights a battle of two teams with different strengths, setting the stage for a competitive and intriguing matchup. Bakersfield Christian brings a more potent offense, while Central Valley Christian relies on efficiency and disciplined execution.
Team Statistics
Offense
- Central Valley Christian (CVC):
CVC averages 244.7 total yards per game, with a balanced approach consisting of 114.2 rushing yards and 130.5 passing yards per game. However, their scoring average of 20.0 points per game suggests they emphasize time management and situational football. - Bakersfield Christian (BC):
Bakersfield Christian boasts a dynamic offense, averaging 328.6 total yards per game, with significant contributions from both the ground (138.4 rushing yards per game) and the air (190.2 passing yards per game). Their 32.3 points per game highlight their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Defense
- CVC:
The Cavaliers average 39.1 tackles per game and 1.1 sacks per game, showcasing a defense that emphasizes fundamental play over high-impact moments. - BC:
Bakersfield Christian’s defense is slightly more active, averaging 45.7 tackles per game and 1.5 sacks per game, led by standout performances from key players.
Team Leaders
- Central Valley Christian:
- Micah Paden (#3): The Cavaliers’ leading rusher, Paden averages 92.1 rushing yards per game, also contributing 10.2 points per game.
- Nathan Peters (#16): CVC’s quarterback is a reliable presence, averaging 140.0 passing yards per game and 139.6 total yards per game.
- Gunnar Piepgrass (#11): The leading receiver for CVC, Piepgrass averages 48.2 receiving yards per game and is a key target in the passing game.
- Bakersfield Christian:
- Lincoln Adame (#4): The Eagles’ quarterback is a standout, averaging 202.0 passing yards per game and 202.7 total yards per game, making him a dual-threat weapon.
- Ethan Eckles (#3): BC’s primary running back, Eckles contributes 76.2 rushing yards per game, keeping defenses honest.
- Andre Calderon (#0): A prolific receiver, Calderon leads the team with 83.5 receiving yards per game, giving Adame a reliable deep-threat option.
Record Breakdown
- Central Valley Christian:
With an 8-4 overall record, CVC has performed well in league play (3-1) and at home (4-1), though their road performance (4-3) has been inconsistent. Their two playoff wins demonstrate their ability to compete in high-pressure situations. - Bakersfield Christian:
Bakersfield Christian has been dominant, with a 10-2 overall record and an unbeaten 4-0 league record. They have thrived in both home (5-2) and road (5-0) games. Their offense has powered them to a perfect 2-0 playoff record so far.
Key Matchups
- Nathan Peters (CVC) vs. BC’s Secondary:
Peters’ steady passing game will be a test for Bakersfield Christian’s defense. If he finds rhythm early, CVC could control the tempo. - Lincoln Adame (BC) vs. CVC’s Defense:
Adame’s ability to make plays through the air and on the ground presents a dual challenge for CVC. Limiting his effectiveness will be critical for the Cavaliers. - Battle in the Trenches:
CVC’s offensive line, led by Will Salisbury (#90) with his lone pancake block, will face Bakersfield Christian’s defensive line, which averages 1.5 sacks per game. This battle could dictate the game’s flow.
Prediction
The game features contrasting styles: CVC’s efficiency and balanced approach versus Bakersfield Christian’s high-octane offense and strong defensive presence. Bakersfield Christian’s ability to generate explosive plays and their superior scoring potential give them a slight edge, but CVC’s disciplined style and knack for performing under pressure make them a formidable opponent. Expect a closely contested matchup where turnovers and red-zone efficiency will be decisive.
