As the football season heats up, all eyes are on the Spartanburg and Dutch Fork teams, two powerhouse programs that will face off in an exciting playoff matchup. The game, set for today at 7:30 p.m. at Dutch Fork’s home stadium in Irmo, SC, promises to be an intense contest between two teams with contrasting records and styles of play.

Team Overview

• Spartanburg comes into the game with a solid 9-2 record. The team finished 5-1 in its region and 4-1 on the road. Known for their strong rushing attack, Spartanburg averages 129 rushing yards per game and has a well-rounded offense. With players like Trenton Lynch, who leads the team with 104.4 rushing yards per game, the team has proven they can control the clock and pound the ball on the ground. However, they’ll need to improve on their passing game, which averages just 101 yards per game. Spartanburg’s defense also has a strong presence, allowing just 162 total points this season.
• Dutch Fork, ranked number one in South Carolina, has been nearly flawless this season, boasting an undefeated 11-0 record. The team has dominated their opponents with an average of 450 total yards per game, including a potent passing attack, led by Ethan Offing, who averages an impressive 223.2 passing yards per game. Dutch Fork’s offense scores an average of 40.9 points per game and has been virtually unstoppable. Defensively, they have been just as impressive, allowing only 73 points all season. Their balanced offense and stout defense make them one of the most formidable teams in the state.

Key Players to Watch

• Spartanburg:
  • Trenton Lynch: As the lead rusher for Spartanburg, Lynch’s performance on the ground will be critical in keeping Dutch Fork’s explosive offense off the field.
  • Trey Burke: The team’s quarterback, with 133.1 passing yards per game, will need to step up to challenge Dutch Fork’s defense through the air.
• Dutch Fork:
  • Ethan Offing: Offing’s strong arm and leadership on the field make him a dangerous weapon. With 223.2 passing yards per game, he’ll be key to keeping the Spartanburg defense on its heels.
  • Boykin Bickley: Bickley’s versatility in both receiving and rushing will be pivotal in creating mismatches against Spartanburg’s defensive backs and linebackers.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The two teams met earlier this season on August 30, 2024, where Dutch Fork came out on top with a commanding 24-7 victory. Spartanburg struggled offensively, scoring only once in the second quarter, while Dutch Fork’s balanced attack proved too much. Spartanburg will be looking for redemption, but they’ll need to find a way to break through Dutch Fork’s defense to make this playoff game competitive.

Statistical Breakdown

• Spartanburg’s Scoring Average: 35.4 points per game.
• Dutch Fork’s Scoring Average: 40.9 points per game.
• Total Yards per Game:
  • Spartanburg: 230.0 yards.
  • Dutch Fork: 409.2 yards.

Despite their impressive record, Spartanburg faces a tough challenge in slowing down Dutch Fork’s high-powered offense. The numbers show Dutch Fork has the edge in both offensive production and defensive efficiency.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Boiling Springs this season, with Spartanburg winning 27-7 and Dutch Fork winning 42-14. This demonstrates the dominance of Dutch Fork, but Spartanburg’s victory also indicates they are capable of stepping up in crucial games.

The Big Picture

With an undefeated season on the line and a chance to make a deep run in the playoffs, Dutch Fork comes into this game as the clear favorite. Spartanburg, however, is no stranger to overcoming adversity and will be motivated to prove they can compete with the state’s elite.

As the game kicks off, fans can expect a hard-fought battle. Dutch Fork’s potent offense will look to maintain its momentum, while Spartanburg will rely on its running game and defensive discipline to pull off the upset.

Final Thoughts

This playoff matchup between Spartanburg and Dutch Fork is more than just a game; it’s a test of will and skill. While Dutch Fork has been nearly unbeatable all season, Spartanburg has the talent and determination to make it a game. The winner will take another step toward the state championship, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.