The Clearwater Central Catholic varsity football team (Clearwater, FL) will host a playoff game against Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, FL) tonight at 7:30 PM at Clearwater Central Catholic. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 1A FHSAA Football tournament.

Chaminade-Madonna vs Clearwater Central Catholic High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: Chaminade-Madonna vs Clearwater Central Catholic
When: Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 1A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Chaminade-Madonna vs Clearwater Central Catholic

Tonight, the Clearwater Central Catholic Marauders will face off against the Chaminade-Madonna Lions in a thrilling playoff game as part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 1A tournament. The game kicks off at 7:30 PM at Clearwater Central Catholic, promising an intense battle between two elite Florida high school football programs.

Team Records and Rankings

Both teams enter this matchup with impressive 12-2 records, showcasing their dominance throughout the season. However, national and state rankings highlight Chaminade-Madonna’s slight edge. The Lions rank 11th nationally and 5th in Florida, while the Marauders stand at 52nd nationally and 17th in the state.

Scoring and Offensive Performance

• Chaminade-Madonna averages 45.5 points per game, with a potent offensive mix of 210.8 rushing yards and 243.7 passing yards per game. Their balanced attack has been led by standout quarterback Preston Wright, who averages an impressive 261.0 passing yards per game.
• Clearwater Central Catholic averages 39.1 points per game, showcasing a run-heavy offense with 263.1 rushing yards per game. Dual-threat quarterback Jershaun Newton contributes significantly, averaging 220.9 total yards per game, making him a critical playmaker for the Marauders.

Defensive Strengths

Both teams boast strong defensive units:

• Chaminade-Madonna relies on a disciplined defense led by Bryant Junius (5.2 tackles per game) and RJ Alphonse (1.0 sacks per game).
• Clearwater Central Catholic counters with a physical defense anchored by Johnny Richardson (7.6 tackles per game) and Gregory Thomas (1.1 sacks per game). Their defense averages 71.3 tackles per game, compared to Chaminade-Madonna’s 55.9.

Key Players to Watch

• Chaminade-Madonna:
  • Preston Wright: The Lions’ quarterback is a game-changer, averaging 273.4 total yards per game.
  • Jasen Lopez: A reliable receiver averaging 90.6 receiving yards per game.
• Clearwater Central Catholic:
  • Jershaun Newton: A dual-threat quarterback critical to the Marauders’ success.
  • Sean Cuono: A workhorse in the backfield, leading the team with 89.4 rushing yards per game.

Team Comparisons

• Offense: Chaminade-Madonna averages 454.5 total yards per game, slightly edging Clearwater Central Catholic’s 413.6.
• Defense: Clearwater Central Catholic has allowed fewer points overall (189 compared to 221), demonstrating their ability to contain high-scoring offenses.
• Playoff Records: Both teams are undefeated in playoff games this season, with Clearwater Central Catholic’s home-field advantage potentially tipping the scales.

Game Outlook

This game promises to be a battle of offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Clearwater Central Catholic will look to exploit their dominant rushing attack, while Chaminade-Madonna aims to capitalize on their dynamic passing game. With both teams evenly matched on paper, the outcome may hinge on turnovers, special teams play, and clutch performances from star players.

Fans can expect a nail-biting contest as these two Florida powerhouses vie for a spot in the championship. Let the playoff excitement begin!