The Hickory (NC) varsity football team will play Crest (Shelby, NC) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: North Carolin High School Football
Who: Crest vs Hickory
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 3A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Crest vs. Hickory

The Crest Chargers (10-2) face off against the Hickory Red Tornadoes (12-0) in what promises to be an exciting matchup between two high-powered teams. While Hickory enters the game undefeated, Crest comes in with a solid 10-2 record, ready to challenge the Red Tornadoes’ perfect season. Both teams boast explosive offenses and strong defenses, making this a battle to remember.

Season Recap

Crest

• Record: 10-2
• Conference Record: 5-2
• Points Scored: 405
• Points Allowed: 161
• Key Player: Aiden Carson (85.3 rushing yards per game) has been a key part of Crest’s offense, along with Ely Hamrick (122.7 passing yards per game), who leads the passing game.
• Strengths:
  • Balanced Offense: Effective running game and passing attack, with Aiden Carson and Ely Hamrick leading the way.
  • Defense: While not as dominant as some of the other teams, Crest’s defense is solid and able to step up when needed.

Hickory

• Record: 12-0
• Conference Record: 7-0
• Points Scored: 613
• Points Allowed: 123
• Key Player: Brady Stober (230.0 passing yards per game) has been exceptional as Hickory’s quarterback, with Isaiah Lackey (95.9 rushing yards per game) providing stability in the running game.
• Strengths:
  • Explosive Offense: Averaging 46.8 points per game, Hickory’s offense is one of the most potent in the state.
  • High Scoring: With a well-rounded attack, Hickory can score in a variety of ways, led by Brady Stober and Isaiah Lackey.

Key Stats and Comparisons

Key Matchup: Crest Defense vs. Hickory Offense

While both teams have been exceptional offensively, Hickory’s 46.8 points per game is a major strength, making their offense the key challenge for Crest. The Chargers’ 50.1 tackles per game and 1.9 sacks per game show they have the ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Crest will need to step up its defensive play, especially against Hickory’s dynamic quarterback, Brady Stober, and star running back, Isaiah Lackey. If Crest can slow down Hickory’s offense and control the clock with their running game, they could pull off the upset.

Prediction

Hickory enters this game as the undefeated favorite, but Crest’s solid defense and balanced offense will make them a formidable opponent. While Hickory’s offensive firepower is tough to contain, Crest has the tools to keep the game competitive.