The Liberty Christian (Richland, WA) varsity football team will face DeSales (Walla Walla, WA) in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, 2024.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Washington High School Football
Who: DeSales vs Liberty Christian
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: on Friday, November 22,
“2024 Football Washington State Championships – 1B State Football”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
A High School Football Showdown: DeSales vs. Liberty Christian
The stage is set for an exciting matchup between two of the top teams in Washington high school football: the DeSales Cougars and the Liberty Christian Patriots. Both teams have enjoyed remarkable seasons, boasting impressive records and powerful offensive and defensive units. But as they prepare for their neutral-site playoff game on November 22, the question on everyone’s mind is whether DeSales can avenge their 52-0 loss to Liberty Christian from October.
Team Overview
DeSales Cougars (10-1, 4-1 District)
- National Ranking: 365
- State Ranking: 5th
- Class: 5A
- Record Breakdown:
- Overall: 10-1
- District: 4-1
- Home: 6-0
- Away: 4-1
- Points For (PF): 646
- Points Against (PA): 193
- Win %: .909
- District %: .800
DeSales has been a powerhouse this season with a strong offensive attack and a stingy defense. The Cougars have averaged 58.7 points per game, relying heavily on their rushing and passing game to dominate opponents. They have only one blemish on their record— a loss to Liberty Christian— but with the playoffs looming, they will look to rebound in a big way.
Liberty Christian Patriots (10-0, 5-0 District)
- National Ranking: 106
- State Ranking: 1st
- Class: 1A
- Record Breakdown:
- Overall: 10-0
- District: 5-0
- Home: 7-0
- Away: 3-0
- Points For (PF): 648
- Points Against (PA): 122
- Win %: 1.000
- District %: 1.000
Liberty Christian enters the playoffs with a perfect 10-0 record, having outscored opponents by an average of more than 60 points per game. With explosive offensive play and solid defensive coverage, the Patriots have been a dominant force in Washington high school football this season.
Offensive Comparison
Both teams have impressive offensive stats, though Liberty Christian has the edge in almost every category. Here’s how they compare:
| Team | Rushing Yards/Game | Passing Yards/Game | Total Yards/Game | Points/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeSales | 168.0 | 109.2 | 277.2 | 38.2 |
| Liberty Christian | 230.6 | 187.6 | 418.2 | 64.2 |
DeSales relies on a balanced offensive attack, with notable contributions from running back Diego Caso and quarterback Cohen Wood. Caso averages 101.9 rushing yards per game, while Wood adds another 167.1 yards through the air. However, Liberty Christian boasts a more dynamic offense. Led by quarterback Perry Pottle, who averages 155.8 passing yards per game, the Patriots have been relentless in their scoring efforts, outpacing DeSales in nearly every statistical category.
Defensive Comparison
In terms of defense, DeSales has been solid, allowing an average of 17.6 points per game. Their defense has been effective at limiting opponents’ yards, but Liberty Christian’s defense has been even more formidable. The Patriots allow just 12.2 points per game and are particularly dangerous in their ability to disrupt the opposing offense, averaging 2.4 sacks per game.
| Team | Tackles/Game | Sacks/Game | Points Against/Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeSales | 37.4 | 1.6 | 17.6 |
| Liberty Christian | 66.0 | 2.4 | 12.2 |
DeSales’ defense is led by linebacker Jason Guest (11.6 tackles per game), but Liberty Christian’s defense has been the standout unit, led by Addison Lyle (11.0 tackles per game) and their ability to generate pressure on the quarterback. Their defensive dominance was clearly on display in their previous win against DeSales, where they shut out the Cougars 52-0.
Recent Head-to-Head
The last meeting between these two teams on October 24th was a decisive one. Liberty Christian overwhelmed DeSales, winning 52-0 in a one-sided affair. Despite DeSales’ valiant efforts throughout the game, Liberty Christian proved to be too much, with their balanced offense and suffocating defense stifling DeSales’ playmaking ability.
With this loss still fresh in their minds, DeSales will be looking to turn the tide in this playoff rematch. But Liberty Christian’s perfect record and dominant performances throughout the season make them the favorites heading into the game.
The Road Ahead
For DeSales, the road to victory will hinge on their ability to execute on offense while stepping up defensively. They will need to control the tempo of the game, limit turnovers, and ensure their defense can withstand Liberty Christian’s offensive firepower.
On the other hand, Liberty Christian will look to extend their perfect season and demonstrate why they are considered one of the top teams in the state. With explosive athletes like Perry Pottle and Charlie Branning leading the charge, they will be confident in their ability to continue their dominance on both sides of the ball.
This game promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of Washington’s top high school football teams, with DeSales hoping to avenge their earlier loss and Liberty Christian looking to keep their undefeated season intact. The neutral-site playoff game on November 22 will undoubtedly be one to remember.
