The DeWitt (MI) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Petoskey (MI) on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m.

What: Michigan High School Football
Who: DeWitt (MI) vs Petoskey (MI)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Petoskey vs. DeWitt: A Clash of Undefeated Football Titans

As the 2024-2025 football season progresses, two powerhouse teams—Petoskey and DeWitt—have emerged as clear frontrunners. Both teams are undefeated, boasting identical 11-0 records, and are dominating their respective leagues. Here’s a detailed comparison of their performance stats, highlighting the strengths and differences that could define their matchup.

Overall Record Breakdown:

Both Petoskey and DeWitt are in peak form this season. With identical 11-0 records, both teams have made a statement, not only in their league but across the state. Petoskey is perfect in league play, finishing 6-0 in their conference, while DeWitt also mirrors this success, sitting at 6-0 in league games. This perfect performance is a testament to their consistent dominance in regular-season play, and both have shown impressive results when facing opponents both at home and away.

• Petoskey Record: 11-0 (6-0 League, 7-0 Home, 4-0 Away)
• DeWitt Record: 11-0 (6-0 League, 6-0 Home, 5-0 Away)

Offensive Firepower:

One of the defining features of both teams is their ability to put up points. However, DeWitt’s offense has been particularly explosive this season.

• DeWitt’s Offense: Averaging 55.6 points per game, DeWitt has demonstrated its high-powered attack, scoring consistently throughout each game. Their offense is led by a balanced attack with impressive rushing, passing, and receiving stats. They average 338 rushing yards per game, which is a significant part of their offensive identity, but their passing game has also been effective, with 177.3 yards per game.
• Petoskey’s Offense: While Petoskey scores an impressive 41.1 points per game, their offense is more balanced compared to DeWitt’s. Petoskey is known for a strong rushing game (338.0 yards per game), and their passing game, led by Elliott Larner, has been efficient with 177.3 passing yards per game. The overall scoring numbers suggest a solid, albeit slightly less dynamic, attack compared to DeWitt’s.

Defensive Strengths:

When it comes to defense, both teams have maintained a strong hold on their opponents, though there are some clear distinctions.

• Petoskey’s Defense: The team averages 58.7 tackles per game, with standout player Charlie Winsor leading the defense with 8.6 tackles per game. Despite a solid defensive line, Petoskey’s defense is not as dominant in terms of sacks, with just 0.9 sacks per game.
• DeWitt’s Defense: DeWitt’s defense has been incredibly effective, averaging 58.7 tackles per game, similar to Petoskey. However, their sack production (0.9 sacks per game) is slightly better than Petoskey’s, giving them a more disruptive defensive front.

Key Player Comparisons:

• Elliott Larner (Petoskey): Larner is an all-around leader for Petoskey, contributing significantly in both the rushing (150.4 yards per game) and passing (177.3 yards per game) game. His total offensive yardage per game (327.6 yards) ranks him among the best in the country.
• Traverse Moore (DeWitt): Moore has been a key player for DeWitt, leading the team with 14.9 points per game. His ability to be a consistent offensive force gives DeWitt the edge in clutch moments.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Petoskey Scoring (Average per Quarter):
  • Q1: 22.7
  • Q2: 15.7
  • Q3: 9.0
  • Q4: 6.7
  • Total: 41.1 points per game
• DeWitt Scoring (Average per Quarter):
  • Q1: 23.0
  • Q2: 16.7
  • Q3: 11.1
  • Q4: 6.2
  • Total: 55.6 points per game

DeWitt’s higher scoring average throughout the game, especially in the first half, indicates a team capable of jumping to an early lead and maintaining that pressure.

Playoff Potential:

Both teams have shown playoff-caliber performance, with both Petoskey and DeWitt holding perfect records in-state (11-0 and 10-0 respectively) and strong out-of-state performances. Their matchup in the postseason could be one of the most anticipated games of the year.

Final Thoughts:

Petoskey and DeWitt have both proven themselves to be among the elite teams in Michigan this season, and their paths to an undefeated record reflect their commitment to excellence. While DeWitt’s offensive firepower is undeniable, Petoskey’s well-rounded and balanced approach, along with their impressive defensive game, make them a formidable opponent. As both teams prepare for the remainder of the season, they will undoubtedly be the teams to watch heading into the playoffs.

This clash between Petoskey and DeWitt could very well be one of the defining moments in Michigan high school football this year.