The Northwest (Opelousas, LA) varsity football team has a home playoff game vs. DeRidder (LA) today at 7pm.

What: Louisiana High School Football
Who: Northwest (LA) vs DeRidder (LA)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

DeRidder vs. Northwest Football Showdown: Playoff Preview

Date: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Northwest High School, Opelousas, LA

The stage is set for an intense playoff battle in the 2024 LHSAA Football Playoffs (Louisiana) – Division II Non-Select tournament. The Northwest Raiders will host the DeRidder Dragons in a matchup that promises to deliver excitement and drama under the Friday night lights.

DeRidder Dragons (5-5, 3-2 District)

• Offense Overview: The Dragons average 369.6 yards per game, fueled by a potent rushing attack led by Connor Rushford, who averages an impressive 142.7 rushing yards per game. Their balanced offense also sees Tanner Davis contributing 124.5 passing yards per game.
• Defense Spotlight: DeRidder’s defense stands out with 81.0 tackles per game, anchored by standout linebacker Dylon Rhodes, who averages 12.8 tackles and 0.5 sacks per game.
• Key Stats:
  • Points Per Game: 32.9
  • Home Record: 3-2
  • Away Record: 2-3

Northwest Raiders (8-2, 6-0 District Champions)

• Offense Overview: The Raiders boast a high-scoring offense averaging 37.5 points per game, with running back Ke’von Johnson leading the charge with 172.5 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Jayden Chavis complements the ground game with 102.0 passing yards per game.
• Defense Spotlight: Northwest’s defense is highly efficient, allowing just 135 points this season. Defensive leader Davon Thibodeaux shines with 5.9 tackles and 1.0 sacks per game.
• Key Stats:
  • Points Per Game: 22.9
  • Home Record: 5-0
  • Away Record: 3-2

Head-to-Head Breakdown

While these teams haven’t faced each other this season, their performance against common opponents gives some insight:

• Both teams suffered losses to Jennings but secured wins over Eunice.
  • DeRidder: Lost to Jennings (42-21) and defeated Eunice (35-13).
  • Northwest: Lost to Jennings (35-14) and defeated Eunice (21-14).

Northwest holds an edge in district performance, boasting an undefeated 6-0 record, while DeRidder enters the matchup with a 3-2 district record.

What to Watch For

• DeRidder’s Ground Game vs. Northwest’s Defense: Connor Rushford’s ability to break tackles and pile up rushing yards will test the Raiders’ stout defensive front.
• Northwest’s Offensive Balance: Ke’von Johnson and Jayden Chavis lead a multi-faceted attack that could exploit any lapses in DeRidder’s defense.
• Home-Field Advantage: Northwest’s perfect home record (5-0) this season gives them an undeniable edge as they defend their turf in this high-stakes playoff game.

Predictions and Implications

This matchup pits Northwest’s high-powered offense and disciplined defense against DeRidder’s balanced attack and gritty playmaking. With playoff hopes on the line, both teams will leave it all on the field. Expect a hard-fought contest where turnovers, big plays, and clock management could decide the outcome.

Fans can follow live updates from Michael Harris, the Dragons’ reporter, or sign up to be Northwest’s live scoretracker to stay in the know as the action unfolds.

Will the Dragons roar their way to a road victory, or will the Raiders continue their home dominance and move one step closer to the championship? All eyes turn to Opelousas tonight at 7 PM!