The Ponaganset varsity football team from North Scituate, RI, is set to face off against Classical from Providence, RI, in a neutral playoff matchup. This game is part of the “RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – Division 3 Championship Bracket” tournament.
Classical vs Ponaganset Football Game Info:
What: Rhode Island High School Football
Who: Classical vs Ponaganset
When: Sunday, November 24, 2024
Time: In Progress
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Classical vs Ponaganset
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between two of Rhode Island’s premier high school football teams, Classical and Ponaganset, in a neutral-site playoff game. Both teams boast impressive 9-1 records and have dominated their respective divisions, making this matchup a must-watch.
Season Overview and Records
Classical (Division 1)
- Overall Record: 9-1
- League Record: 6-1
- Home/Away Split: 6-0 at home, 3-1 away
- Points For/Against: 412-104
- Win Percentage: .900
Ponaganset (Division 2)
- Overall Record: 9-1
- League Record: 7-1
- Home/Away Split: 5-0 at home, 4-1 away
- Points For/Against: 378-150
- Win Percentage: .900
Both teams are highly efficient, but Classical’s defensive dominance is evident, allowing only 104 points over the season compared to Ponaganset’s 150.
Key Statistics
- Team Offense:
Classical averages 371.4 total yards per game, relying heavily on a potent passing attack (266.1 yards/game).
Ponaganset, by contrast, excels on the ground, racking up 182.0 rushing yards per game. - Scoring:
Classical leads in points per game (41.2) compared to Ponaganset (34.8). - Defensive Strength:
Classical edges out Ponaganset in tackles (24.6 per game vs. 16.0) and sacks (2.1 per game vs. 1.0).
Key Players to Watch
Classical
- Parker Howley: The quarterback leads with 231.7 passing yards per game, a key driver of Classical’s offensive machine.
- Jordan Duke: A dual-threat, averaging 71.9 rushing yards and 88.4 receiving yards per game, and contributing 18 points per game.
Ponaganset
- Kaleb Rock: The standout rusher, averaging 77.3 yards per game.
- Robert Grenga: A versatile playmaker, contributing 106.0 passing yards and 143.4 total yards per game.
- Trevor Lytle: A reliable receiver, averaging 62.4 yards and 11.6 points per game.
Head-to-Head History
Classical secured a decisive 45-24 victory over Ponaganset in their October 26th matchup, showcasing their balanced offensive and defensive prowess. In that game, Classical’s explosive scoring and resilient defense highlighted their ability to control all four quarters.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced and defeated several common opponents this season, but Classical’s lone loss came against Pilgrim, a team Ponaganset managed to beat twice. This edge in head-to-head common games might boost Ponaganset’s confidence.
| Opponent | Classical Result | Ponaganset Result |
|---|---|---|
| Mt. Hope | W 38-6 | W 10-7 |
| North Providence | W 42-7 | W 53-19 |
| East Greenwich | W 42-7 | W 35-0 |
| Pilgrim | L 31-23 | W 40-14, W 32-16 |
| Cranston East | W 38-0 | W 35-6 |
| Rogers | W 56-22 | W 49-7 |
What to Expect in the Playoff Showdown
The playoff game promises to be a battle of contrasting styles. Classical’s high-octane passing game will face Ponaganset’s rugged rushing attack. Key matchups in the trenches and turnover battles will likely decide the outcome. Both teams are peaking at the right time, making this contest a potential classic in Rhode Island high school football.
Will Classical continue their dominance, or will Ponaganset find redemption? Stay tuned to witness this exciting clash!
