On Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 7 p.m., the Crosbyton Chiefs (4-6, TX) varsity football team will face off against the Stratford Elks (6-3, TX) in a neutral playoff game at Dick Bivins Stadium in Amarillo. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships for the 2A Division 2 Conference.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Crosbyton vs Stratford
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 2A D2
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Game preview: Crosbyton vs Stratford
As Stratford and Crosbyton prepare to face off, both teams come into the game with unique strengths and weaknesses evident in their rankings, records, and statistics.
Team Records and Rankings
Stratford holds an impressive 6-3 overall record, including a strong 3-1 district showing. With a .667 overall winning percentage and a .750 district winning rate, they’ve consistently found success. Stratford is currently ranked 471st in the state and 124th in their section. Their offensive and defensive efforts have resulted in 308 points scored and 157 points allowed this season.
Crosbyton, on the other hand, has a less favorable record at 4-6 overall and 2-3 in district play, giving them a .400 winning percentage in both categories. They rank 1,107th in the state and 254th in their section. Crosbyton has struggled on defense, giving up 304 points while scoring 212.
Scoring Averages
Analyzing quarter-by-quarter scoring, Stratford has a consistent offensive output:
- Q1: 6.7 points
- Q2: 9.0 points
- Q3: 8.7 points
- Q4: 9.9 points
- Final Average: 34.2 points per game
In contrast, Crosbyton’s scoring efforts drop off significantly:
- Q1: 4.7 points
- Q2: 2.7 points
- Q3: 2.7 points
- Q4: 5.3 points
- Final Average: 21.2 points per game
Team Statistical Comparisons
Stratford leads significantly in several categories:
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 196.7
- Passing Yards Per Game: 144.7
- Receiving Yards Per Game: 144.7
- Total Yards Per Game: 341.3
- Tackles Per Game: 90.0
- Sacks Per Game: 2.1
- Points Per Game: 34.2
Key Players and Team Leaders
Stratford’s #4 Bryce Braden is a standout on both sides of the ball, averaging 87.6 rushing yards, 154.0 total yards, and 13.4 tackles per game. He is also a key scorer, averaging 10.7 points per game. Chase Lantelme contributes significantly in the passing game with 83.6 yards per game, while Darius Jones adds 49.7 receiving yards per contest.
Crosbyton lacks comparable leaders, falling below the national averages for critical metrics, which impacts their overall game performance.
Common Opponent Comparison
Both teams have faced Vega this season, with contrasting results. Stratford dominated Vega in a 47-0 shutout, while Crosbyton fell short in a close 14-6 loss. This disparity highlights Stratford’s defensive and offensive strengths compared to Crosbyton.
Record Breakdown
- Stratford: Strong both at home (3-1) and on the road (3-2), demonstrating versatility and resilience. They are undefeated against common opponents (1-0).
- Crosbyton: Struggled away (1-3) and at home (3-3), with a loss against their common opponent.
Conclusion
Stratford’s consistent scoring, solid defense, and standout individual performances make them the favorites going into the matchup. Crosbyton will need to find ways to mitigate Stratford’s offensive threat and capitalize on any opportunities. With Stratford coming in as a stronger team on paper, Crosbyton will have to elevate their game to challenge their opponent effectively.
