The Clinton (SC) varsity football team is hosting Fairfield Central (Winnsboro, SC) in a playoff game on Friday, December 6, at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 SCHSL Class AA Football State Championships.

Clinton vs Fairfield Central Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Clinton vs Fairfield Central
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AA Football
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Game preview: Clinton vs Fairfield Central

As the high school football season heats up, the stage is set for an electrifying matchup between two of South Carolina’s top programs: Fairfield Central and Clinton. Both teams bring impressive records and high-octane offenses into this much-anticipated clash, promising a game for the ages.

Season Performance and Rankings

Fairfield Central enters the game ranked 36th in the state and first in its class with a stellar 12-1 overall record. The Griffins have dominated their region, posting a perfect 4-0 record while scoring 566 points and allowing just 167.

Clinton, ranked 39th in the state and second in its class, has also been formidable. The Red Devils boast a 10-2 overall record and a flawless 4-0 region mark. They’ve scored 495 points while conceding 239.

Offensive Firepower

Fairfield Central leads the way with an average of 43.5 points per game, bolstered by explosive first-quarter performances (15.0 points). The team’s offensive strategy is balanced, with 268.2 rushing yards and 101.2 passing yards per game.

Clinton, meanwhile, averages 41.3 points per game, with strong showings in the second half. The Red Devils thrive on their ground game, averaging a whopping 340.1 rushing yards per contest.

Player Matchups

• Fairfield Central: Running back Tydarion Grier is the engine of the Griffins’ offense, averaging 152.5 rushing yards and 17.1 points per game. Quarterback Ford Davis contributes 51.7 passing yards, while receiver Jayden Boyd adds 29.4 receiving yards.
• Clinton: The Red Devils counter with Javen Cook, who averages 136.6 rushing yards and 10.7 points per game. Quarterback Tushawan Richardson provides 88.3 passing yards, with Devin Swindler leading the receiving corps at 46.9 yards per game.

Defensive Strengths

Defensively, Fairfield Central has been rock-solid, recording 80.8 tackles and 2.0 sacks per game. Chauncery Turner leads the defense with 10.0 tackles per game. Clinton’s defense has been equally effective, averaging 60.3 tackles and 1.5 sacks per game, with Brett Young tallying 8.5 tackles per contest.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced and defeated Newberry, Chester, and Chesnee this season, showcasing their dominance. Fairfield Central edged Newberry in a high-scoring 49-42 thriller, while Clinton defeated them 23-14. Against Chester, Fairfield Central won 22-6, while Clinton posted an impressive 48-20 victory.

Keys to Victory

• Fairfield Central: The Griffins will rely on Grier’s versatility and a balanced offensive attack to exploit Clinton’s defense. Controlling the tempo and minimizing turnovers will be crucial.
• Clinton: For the Red Devils, the ground game must set the tone. Cook’s ability to break big plays will be vital, as will a strong defensive performance to contain Fairfield Central’s high-powered offense.

The Bottom Line

With two evenly matched teams, this game has all the ingredients of a classic. Fairfield Central’s slightly better overall record and balanced offense give them a slight edge, but Clinton’s dominant rushing attack and solid defense make them a formidable opponent. Expect a thrilling, hard-fought contest that could come down to the final possession.