The Chapin (El Paso, TX) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Memorial (Wichita Falls, TX) on Friday, November 15, at 5:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships in the 5A Division 2 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Chapin vs Memorial
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D2
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Game preview: Chapin vs Memorial

As the 2024-2025 high school football season heats up, two teams in Texas—Memorial and Chapin—are competing at high levels within their respective districts. With different strengths and challenges, both teams are looking to finish the season strong and make a push for the playoffs.

Memorial’s Standout Season

Memorial (TX) has been a dominant force this season, finishing with a record of 8-2 overall and 5-1 in district play. Their impressive performance has been a testament to their all-around game. With a robust offense that averages 453.7 yards per game, Memorial’s high-powered attack is anchored by star running back Kenji Johnson, who leads the team with 159.6 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Joe Castles adds another layer to the offense, throwing for 160.2 yards per game. The team’s offensive firepower is complemented by a defense that is strong in tackling and pressure, recording 64.1 tackles per game.

Memorial’s scoring is led by their dynamic offense, averaging 33.5 points per game. The team is particularly dangerous in the fourth quarter, where they often find their rhythm, putting up an average of 14.9 points. Memorial’s strong balance between offense and defense, along with their dominant performances at home (4-1) and on the road (4-1), has them firmly positioned as a top contender in their district.

Chapin’s Competitive Edge

Chapin, with a 6-4 overall record and a 6-2 district record, has been a competitive team throughout the season, though they’ve faced some challenges on the road (2-3). While their overall yardage of 423.7 yards per game is slightly lower than Memorial’s, Chapin’s offense is led by their high-flying passing game. Quarterback Evan Rivera has been outstanding, averaging 237 yards per game through the air, which is a key component of their offensive strategy. Chapin has also benefited from solid contributions in receiving yards, with Brent Hallman Jr. leading the way, contributing 70.7 yards per game.

Defensively, Chapin has been solid as well, posting 64.2 tackles per game and 2.8 sacks per game. However, their defensive struggles are evident in their inability to consistently stop powerful offenses, allowing an average of 31.8 points per game. Despite these challenges, Chapin’s ability to perform well within district play (6-2) showcases their resilience and potential to make a deep playoff run.

Team Comparison: Key Metrics

A comparison of Memorial and Chapin reveals their contrasting styles of play:

• Rushing: Memorial outpaces Chapin significantly with 254 rushing yards per game, compared to Chapin’s 170.4 yards. Memorial’s Kenji Johnson has been a standout with 159.6 rushing yards per game, making him a central figure in their attack.
• Passing: Chapin thrives through the air, averaging 253.3 passing yards per game, while Memorial is more balanced with 199.7 passing yards per game. Evan Rivera’s 237 yards per game passing has been critical for Chapin’s offensive success.
• Scoring: Memorial has a slight edge in scoring, averaging 33.5 points per game, while Chapin averages 31.8. Memorial’s ability to generate scoring in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter, has been a key factor in their success.
• Total Yardage: Memorial leads in total yardage, averaging 453.7 yards per game, compared to Chapin’s 423.7 yards.
• Defense: Both teams are relatively equal in terms of tackles per game, with Memorial at 64.1 and Chapin at 64.2. However, Chapin’s sack rate is higher at 2.8 sacks per game compared to Memorial’s 1.4.

Key Players to Watch

• Memorial: Kenji Johnson is the centerpiece of Memorial’s offensive attack, not only contributing in the running game but also in scoring, averaging 19.2 points per game. Joe Castles and Jamari Dean also contribute significantly to the offense, with Dean being a major target in the receiving game.
• Chapin: Evan Rivera’s passing accuracy and ability to generate big plays in the air will be key for Chapin. Additionally, Brent Hallman Jr. is an explosive receiver, and Daveon Singleton’s defensive presence has been notable this season.

Conclusion: A Look Ahead

Both Memorial and Chapin have shown they are capable of competing at a high level within their district. Memorial’s balanced offense, led by their rushing attack and solid defense, gives them the edge overall, but Chapin’s aerial game and resilience could make them a formidable opponent in any matchup. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these two teams as they head toward the playoffs, with Memorial likely to remain the favorite due to their dominance in both district and overall play.