The Aquinas Institute (Rochester, NY) varsity football team is playing a neutral playoff game against Christian Brothers Academy (Syracuse, NY) , November 30 at 6 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: New York High School Football
Who: Christian Brothers Academy vs. Aquinas Institute
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 6 PM. ET
Bracket: 2024 NYSPHSAA Football Championships – Class AA
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Christian Brothers Academy vs. Aquinas Institute
The undefeated Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) faces a strong challenge from the Aquinas Institute, a team with an impressive season of their own. While CBA has been dominant across all facets of the game, Aquinas Institute will look to use their balanced offense and solid defense to upset the top-ranked team.
Season Recap: Christian Brothers Academy
- Record: 12-0
- League Record: 8-0
- Points For/Against: 556 PF, 121 PA
- Scoring Average: 46.3 points per game
CBA has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging nearly 50 points per game, while their defense has been equally dominant, holding opponents to just 10 points per game. Their ability to both run and pass efficiently has made them nearly unstoppable.
Season Recap: Aquinas Institute
- Record: 10-2
- League Record: 7-2
- Points For/Against: 355 PF, 145 PA
- Scoring Average: 29.6 points per game
Aquinas has had a strong season, but their two losses highlight some vulnerabilities against high-caliber teams. Their offense has leaned heavily on RB Derrion Battle and QB Trent Buttles, both of whom will need to deliver career performances against CBA.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Christian Brothers Academy | Aquinas Institute |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 12-0 | 10-2 |
| League Record | 8-0 | 7-2 |
| Points For | 556 | 355 |
| Points Against | 121 | 145 |
| Scoring Average | 46.3 | 29.6 |
| Q1 Scoring Average | 14.3 | 7.9 |
| Q2 Scoring Average | 11.1 | 7.4 |
| Q3 Scoring Average | 9.3 | 6.9 |
| Q4 Scoring Average | 10.1 | 7.3 |
Key Players to Watch
Christian Brothers Academy
- Rushing Attack:
While no individual stats are listed, their rushing game has consistently delivered. - #55 Lucas Leone (LB):
Leads the team in tackles with 9.5 tackles per game, anchoring a dominant defense. - #6 Quante Gillians (DE):
With 0.7 sacks per game, Gillians adds pressure on opposing QBs.
Aquinas Institute
- #5 Derrion Battle (RB):
Averaging 112.4 rushing yards per game, Battle is the key to Aquinas’s offense. - #1 Trent Buttles (QB):
With 127.3 passing yards per game, Buttles provides balance to the offense. - #55 Lucas Leone (LB):
Leads a defense that thrives on stopping the run.
Game Outlook
- CBA’s Defense vs. Derrion Battle
Aquinas will rely heavily on Battle to establish the ground game, but CBA’s defense has consistently shut down opposing rushing attacks. - Turnover Margin
Aquinas must play a clean game to have any chance. Any turnovers could lead to quick scores by CBA, putting the game out of reach early. - Depth and Consistency
CBA’s depth across all positions is a clear advantage. Aquinas needs a flawless performance and standout plays from their stars to compete.
Prediction
Christian Brothers Academy enters this matchup as the heavy favorite. Their potent offense, combined with a stingy defense, makes them one of the most complete teams in New York this season. While Aquinas Institute has had a commendable run, they’ll likely struggle to keep up with CBA’s scoring pace.
