The Cooper High School varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Highlands High School on Friday, November 29 at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 Kentucky High School Football Playoff Brackets for KHSAA Class 5A.
What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Cooper (KY) vs Highlands (KY)
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Kentucky High School Football Playoff Brackets: KHSAA – Class 5A
Live stream: Watch here
High-Stakes Showdown: Highlands vs. Cooper in the 2024 Playoffs
This Friday, November 29th, at 7 p.m., the Highlands Bluebirds (Fort Thomas, KY) will take on the Cooper Jaguars (Union, KY) in an anticipated playoff clash. The matchup promises excitement, given both teams’ strong season records and dynamic play.
Season Overview
The Highlands Bluebirds (12-2) have had an impressive 2024 campaign, with a 4-1 record in their district and an 8-1 record in non-league play. Their performance at home (5-1) and away (5-1) underscores their resilience, as they head into this playoff battle with a solid .857 winning percentage. On the other hand, the Cooper Jaguars (13-0) are undefeated, boasting a perfect 5-0 record in their district and an unblemished 8-0 away record. With a win percentage of 1.000, Cooper has proven to be a formidable force.
Head-to-Head Preview
These two teams met earlier this season on September 28, where Cooper edged out Highlands in a nail-biting 24-21 victory. The game featured a strong start by Cooper, who led 21-14 at halftime, with Highlands clawing back to make it close in the second half. This tight contest has set the stage for an intense rematch where Highlands will seek redemption and Cooper will aim to maintain their dominance.
Team Statistics Comparison
A comparison of team statistics reveals a closely matched showdown. Highlands averages 148.9 rushing yards per game, while Cooper averages 144.4. Both teams display strong passing game capabilities, with Highlands at 207.5 yards per game and Cooper at 237.2. Total yards per game are similarly competitive: Highlands at 356.4 and Cooper at 381.6.
Defensively, Highlands and Cooper show slight differences. Highlands averages 50.4 tackles per game, compared to Cooper’s 52.2. In terms of sacks, Highlands averages 1.4 per game while Cooper slightly leads with 1.7. The scoring averages also highlight the offensive potency of both teams: Highlands scores 30.6 points per game, and Cooper leads with 44.8 points per game, showcasing their ability to capitalize on offensive opportunities.
Key Players to Watch
Highlands will rely heavily on Rio Litmer, who has contributed 194.8 passing yards per game and 216.8 total yards per game, making him an essential player in orchestrating their offense. Adam Surrey has been a standout receiver with 76.4 receiving yards per game and 5.5 points per game, serving as a reliable target for Litmer.
For Cooper, Cam O’hara has been instrumental, posting 236.2 passing yards per game and leading the team with 251.2 total yards per game. Keagan Maher, another pivotal player, averages 110.2 rushing yards per game, adding significant depth to Cooper’s attack.
Common Opponents
The two teams have faced some of the same opponents throughout the season, providing insight into their strengths and weaknesses. Cooper has an unblemished 6-0 record against common opponents, while Highlands stands at 5-1. Notable matchups include victories over teams like Campbell County, Ryle, and Dixie Heights.
Final Thoughts
With both teams entering this playoff game with strong records and impressive scoring capabilities, fans can expect a high-energy battle. Highlands will look to build on their experience and make adjustments from their previous meeting, while Cooper will aim to uphold their undefeated streak and advance further in the postseason.
As kickoff approaches, the stakes are clear: a place in the next round awaits the victor, setting the stage for an unforgettable showdown under the Friday night lights.
