The Cotulla (TX) varsity football team will face Van Vleck (TX) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM at Odem High School. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 3A Division 2” tournament.
Cotulla vs Van Vleck Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Cotulla vs Van Vleck
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 3A D2
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Game preview: Cotulla vs Van Vleck
As the high school football season progresses, the matchup between the Van Vleck Leopards and the Cotulla Cowboys promises to be an intriguing contest. With both teams bringing distinct strengths to the field, a deeper dive into their records, statistics, and key players offers insight into what fans can expect.
Team Overview
Van Vleck Leopards (5-6)
- State Rank: 457
- District Record: 2-4
- Points Scored/Allowed: 348 PF / 294 PA
- Key Strengths:
The Leopards’ offensive focus is their ground game, averaging an impressive 332.6 rushing yards per game. Corey Austin, the standout player, is a major contributor with 217.9 rushing yards and 16.7 points per game.
Cotulla Cowboys (8-3)
- State Rank: 587
- District Record: 5-2
- Points Scored/Allowed: 309 PF / 164 PA
- Key Strengths:
Cotulla has been dominant in their district, with a strong defense allowing just 164 points across 11 games. Their balanced attack features Alex Medina, who leads the team in passing yards and scoring.
Scoring Patterns
Both teams have shown unique trends in scoring by quarters:
- Van Vleck: Strong starts in the first half, averaging 8.8 and 9.2 points in the first and second quarters, respectively.
- Cotulla: Similar trends but with lower first-quarter production (5.0 points) and consistent scoring in the second quarter (9.4).
Van Vleck’s offense is more explosive overall, averaging 31.6 points per game compared to Cotulla’s 28.1. However, Cotulla’s defense could be the deciding factor, as they allow just 14.9 points per game.
Statistical Matchup
| Category | Van Vleck | Cotulla | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 332.6 | 207.0 | Van Vleck |
| Passing Yards/Game | 72.9 | 101.0 | Cotulla |
| Total Yards/Game | 405.5 | 308.0 | Van Vleck |
| Points/Game | 31.6 | 26.1 | Van Vleck |
| Tackles/Game | 72.1 | 66.2 | Van Vleck |
| Sacks/Game | 0.9 | 1.4 | Cotulla |
The Leopards have an edge offensively, but Cotulla’s defensive capabilities and slightly superior passing game could create challenges.
Key Players to Watch
Van Vleck:
- Corey Austin (#0): Leading the charge with a staggering 241.9 total yards per game and 16.7 points per game. His ability to dominate on the ground will be crucial.
- Eurelio Lopez (#15): Anchoring the defense with 11.3 tackles per game.
Cotulla:
- Alex Medina (#5): A dual-threat quarterback who contributes in passing (69.7 yards/game) and scoring (6.5 points/game).
- Marco Benavidez (#20): Defensive leader with 7.6 tackles per game.
Game Outlook
Van Vleck’s ability to control the clock with their running game versus Cotulla’s balanced attack sets the stage for a classic showdown. While the Cowboys have the advantage in district success and defensive stability, Van Vleck’s offensive explosiveness could make this a tight contest. The result may hinge on Cotulla’s ability to contain Corey Austin and force Van Vleck into a passing game where they are less effective.
Prediction: Cotulla’s defense will likely prove decisive, earning them a narrow victory, but Van Vleck’s ability to generate big plays ensures this matchup will be one to watch.
