The Clearwater Central Catholic varsity football team (Clearwater, FL) is set to host the Chaminade-Madonna Lions (Hollywood, FL) tonight at 7:30 PM in a pivotal playoff game. This showdown is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 1A tournament, promising fans an exhilarating evening of high school football.

Game Details

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

Game Preview

Tonight’s matchup features two of Florida’s top high school football teams. The Clearwater Central Catholic Marauders will battle the Chaminade-Madonna Lions in a game that brings together explosive offenses and tough defenses. Both teams boast identical 12-2 records, underscoring their excellence throughout the season.

Team Records and Rankings

Chaminade-Madonna enters the game ranked 11th nationally and 5th in Florida, slightly ahead of Clearwater Central Catholic, who ranks 52nd nationally and 17th in the state. These rankings set the stage for a highly competitive clash.

Offensive Firepower

• Chaminade-Madonna:
  • Points Per Game: 45.5
  • Rushing Yards: 210.8 per game
  • Passing Yards: 243.7 per game
  • Key Player: Quarterback Preston Wright, averaging 261.0 passing yards per game
• Clearwater Central Catholic:
  • Points Per Game: 39.1
  • Rushing Yards: 263.1 per game
  • Key Player: Dual-threat quarterback Jershaun Newton, contributing 220.9 total yards per game

Defensive Strengths

Both teams feature formidable defenses:

• Chaminade-Madonna:
  • Led by Bryant Junius (5.2 tackles per game) and RJ Alphonse (1.0 sacks per game).
• Clearwater Central Catholic:
  • Anchored by Johnny Richardson (7.6 tackles per game) and Gregory Thomas (1.1 sacks per game), their defense averages an impressive 71.3 tackles per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Chaminade-Madonna:
  • Preston Wright: The Lions’ dynamic quarterback
  • Jasen Lopez: A top receiver, averaging 90.6 yards per game
• Clearwater Central Catholic:
  • Jershaun Newton: A dual-threat quarterback and offensive leader
  • Sean Cuono: A powerful running back, leading with 89.4 rushing yards per game

Team Comparisons

• Offense: Chaminade-Madonna leads in total yardage, averaging 454.5 yards per game compared to Clearwater Central Catholic’s 413.6.
• Defense: The Marauders have allowed fewer points overall (189 vs. 221), showcasing their ability to contain opponents.
• Playoff Records: Both teams are undefeated in the postseason, with Clearwater Central Catholic’s home-field advantage potentially playing a crucial role.

Game Outlook

This evenly matched contest will likely come down to key moments on offense and defense. Clearwater Central Catholic’s rushing game will face a tough test against Chaminade-Madonna’s balanced attack. Turnovers, special teams play, and standout performances from stars like Jershaun Newton and Preston Wright could decide the outcome.

Fans can expect a thrilling, nail-biting battle as these two elite programs fight for a spot in the championship. Let the playoff excitement begin!