The Dutch Fork (Irmo, SC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against River Bluff (Lexington, SC) on Friday, November 29 at 7:30 PM. This game is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 1 tournament.

Dutch Fork vs River Bluff Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Dutch Fork vs River Bluff
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 1
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Dutch Fork vs River Bluff

As the South Carolina high school football playoffs heat up, the River Bluff and Dutch Fork teams are set to meet once again, this time for a high-stakes game on Friday, November 29, at 7:30 PM. The matchup features two of the state’s top teams, each with impressive records and potent offenses. The game promises to be a thrilling contest, as River Bluff looks to avenge an earlier loss to Dutch Fork in a game that could determine their playoff fate.

Team Records & Standings

• River Bluff (Lexington, SC) enters the game with a 10-2 overall record, finishing 3-2 in the region. Their performance has been solid, with an impressive 6-1 record at home but a slightly more challenging 4-1 away. With a strong .833 win percentage, River Bluff is positioned as a tough opponent, having scored a total of 358 points while allowing 234.
• Dutch Fork (Irmo, SC), on the other hand, remains unbeaten with a perfect 10-0 record, including a flawless 5-0 region record. Dominating both at home and on the road, Dutch Fork has posted an impressive 1.000 win percentage and has scored 398 points while allowing just 59. The team’s performance across all games has been nothing short of dominant, showcasing a balanced and high-powered attack.

Offensive and Defensive Comparisons

In terms of offensive production, both teams have been strong, but Dutch Fork holds a significant edge. River Bluff averages 29.8 points per game, with an average of 193.4 rushing yards and 141.7 passing yards. Their total offensive yardage per game stands at 335.1 yards, with standout performances from players like Trace Nettles (136.0 rushing yards per game) and Parker Murray (109.1 passing yards per game).

Dutch Fork’s offense, however, has been even more impressive. Averaging 39.8 points per game, the team boasts a 233.4 passing yards and 160.5 rushing yards per game. Their total yardage per game is 393.9, led by explosive playmakers like Ethan Offing (227.4 passing yards per game) and Boykin Bickley (80.6 receiving yards per game).

Defensively, River Bluff has managed to keep games close with a 54.5 tackles per game average and has been solid in limiting opposing offenses, allowing 234 total points. Dutch Fork, however, has dominated on the defensive side, allowing just 59 points on the season, an extraordinary defensive performance. Their defense has been nearly impenetrable, limiting opponents to an average of 21.3 tackles per game.

Head-to-Head Recap

Earlier this month, the two teams met on November 1, with Dutch Fork coming out victorious in a decisive 41-14 win over River Bluff. The game was a dominant performance from Dutch Fork, who held River Bluff scoreless in the first half. The River Bluff offense struggled to match Dutch Fork’s firepower, as they were limited to just 14 points.

Team Leaders

For River Bluff, Trace Nettles has been the standout offensive player, contributing heavily with 136 rushing yards per game and 12 points per game. On the defensive side, Blaine Fender has averaged 10.8 tackles per game, anchoring the defense.

Dutch Fork’s offense is led by Ethan Offing, who has thrown for 227.4 yards per game, while Maurice Anderson provides the ground game with 91.2 rushing yards per game. On defense, Josh Smith has been effective with 2.6 tackles per game, complementing their suffocating overall defensive effort.

Playoff Implications

Both teams have been dominant in the regular season, but the playoffs bring a new level of intensity. River Bluff enters the game looking to recover from their earlier defeat and make a deep playoff run. Dutch Fork, with its perfect season, is aiming to continue their dominance and capture another state title.

River Bluff’s hopes hinge on improving its offensive production, especially on the road. Their ability to establish the run and take advantage of passing opportunities will be key to keeping up with Dutch Fork’s high-powered offense. Meanwhile, Dutch Fork will look to maintain their offensive efficiency and tighten up their already strong defense to stifle River Bluff’s attempts to mount a comeback.

Conclusion

This Friday’s playoff game between River Bluff and Dutch Fork is poised to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams bringing exceptional talent and determination to the field. Dutch Fork’s dominance throughout the regular season makes them the favorites, but River Bluff will be eager to prove themselves and push the defending champions to the limit. Fans can expect an exciting atmosphere as these two powerhouse teams battle for a spot in the next round of the South Carolina playoffs.