The Northwestern (Miami, FL) varsity football team will host Cypress Lake (Fort Myers, FL) in a home playoff game today at 7:30 p.m. at Northwestern. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football tournament.

Cypress Lake vs Northwestern High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: Cypress Lake vs Northwestern
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Cypress Lake vs Northwestern

The Cypress Lake (Fort Myers, FL) varsity football team will square off against Northwestern (Miami, FL) today at 7:30 p.m. in a pivotal home playoff game at Northwestern as part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football tournament.

Team Records and Performance

Cypress Lake enters the game with a 7-5 record and a district title under its belt. The team has been strong at home, posting a 3-2 record, but has faced challenges on the road with a 4-3 mark. The Panthers have averaged 31.7 points per game this season and rely on a well-rounded offense, with 220.3 receiving yards per game and 75.8 rushing yards per game. Key players include junior quarterback Joey Dube-Garrett, who leads the team with 194.5 passing yards per game, and Isaiah Livingstone, who contributes significantly with 56.7 rushing yards per game. The Panthers will look to continue their success after defeating Key West 24-21 in their most recent playoff game.

Northwestern, ranked significantly higher at 9-2, has been dominant throughout the season with a perfect 6-0 record at home. The Bulls have averaged 41.6 points per game and have a balanced offensive attack with 177.5 rushing yards per game and 189.8 passing yards per game. Their defense has also been solid, allowing just 133 points across the season. Northwestern is led by dynamic playmakers such as quarterback Leon Strawder (186.5 passing yards per game) and running back King Davis (67.2 rushing yards per game), along with key defensive contributors like Desmond Johnson, who averages 9.6 tackles per game. The Bulls are coming off a strong 50-14 win over Key West, and they look to maintain their momentum as they head into this critical playoff matchup.

Team Comparisons

• Scoring: Cypress Lake averages 31.7 points per game, while Northwestern has a higher offensive output, averaging 41.6 points per game.
• Offense: Cypress Lake leans more heavily on its passing game, with 218.8 passing yards per game, compared to Northwestern’s more balanced attack of 177.5 rushing and 189.8 passing yards per game.
• Defense: Northwestern boasts a significantly stronger defense, allowing only 133 points across the season, compared to Cypress Lake’s 265 points allowed. The Bulls also average 31.2 tackles per game, with more sacks per game (2.1) than Cypress Lake’s 1.3.

Key Players to Watch

• Cypress Lake: Quarterback Joey Dube-Garrett (194.5 passing yards per game) will need to lead his team efficiently, while Isaiah Livingstone’s 56.7 rushing yards per game could play a key role in keeping the Northwestern defense on its heels.
• Northwestern: Quarterback Leon Strawder (186.5 passing yards per game) is a dynamic force for the Bulls, with help from running back King Davis (67.2 rushing yards per game) and wide receiver Calvin Russell Jr. (6.0 points per game). The defense, led by Desmond Johnson (9.6 tackles per game), will be crucial in limiting Cypress Lake’s offensive production.

Recent Performance and Common Opponents

Both teams have been impressive against common opponents, including a 24-21 win for Cypress Lake over Key West on November 22, and a dominant 50-14 win for Northwestern over the same team earlier this season. This matchup promises to be a competitive one, with both teams carrying solid records and key victories into the postseason.

Looking Ahead

Cypress Lake will be hoping to keep the game close with its passing attack and offensive versatility, while Northwestern aims to use its defensive strength and high-powered offense to control the game. With both teams boasting a high win percentage, this playoff clash is sure to be an exciting and tightly contested matchup.