The Choctaw County (Ackerman, MS) varsity football team is set to face East Webster (Maben, MS) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: East Webster vs Choctaw County
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 3A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: East Webster vs. Choctaw County
In a thrilling Mississippi 2A playoff game, East Webster (12-1) will face Choctaw County (12-1) on Friday, November 29, after both teams had outstanding regular seasons. East Webster seeks redemption after their previous loss to Choctaw County, and both teams come into this game with similar records and high expectations.
Season Recap: East Webster High School
- Record: 12-1
- District: 3-1
- Points For/Against: 544 PF, 167 PA
- Scoring Average: 41.8 points per game
East Webster has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging 41.8 points per game. Their rushing attack, led by Dee Bingham, has been their backbone, while their defense has been stingy, allowing just 167 points. The team enters the playoffs riding high after a dominant win against Nettleton (70-14) and several other convincing victories.
Key Players:
- Dee Bingham (#2): Running back with 89.8 rushing yards per game, a workhorse for East Webster’s offense.
- Cooper Stidham (#17): Quarterback with 135.0 passing yards per game, an efficient passer who has contributed to the balanced attack.
- Jer’kel Ivy (#5): Wide receiver with 76.9 receiving yards per game, a key target for Stidham.
Season Recap: Choctaw County High School
- Record: 12-1
- District: 4-0
- Points For/Against: 529 PF, 198 PA
- Scoring Average: 40.7 points per game
Choctaw County has been equally impressive this season, boasting a balanced offense and a stifling defense. Their season has included a dominant performance against Aberdeen (56-38), and their defense has held opponents to under 200 points. They are undefeated in district play, and their only loss came in non-league play.
Key Players:
- Jaylen Smith: The star running back for Choctaw County (rushing and scoring leader, though stats are not provided here) is key for both their offense and defense.
- Quarterback: Choctaw County’s offense revolves around a strong passing game, with a solid connection between the QB and receivers.
Team Stat Comparison
| Category | East Webster | Choctaw County |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Average | 41.8 | 40.7 |
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 203.7 | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 157.2 | – |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 157.2 | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | 360.8 | – |
| Tackles Per Game | 59.5 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 2.0 | – |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 12.8 | 15.2 |
Key Matchups
- East Webster’s Ground Attack vs. Choctaw County’s Defense
- Dee Bingham will need to find success against Choctaw County’s defense, which has been effective in limiting big plays. East Webster will rely heavily on Bingham to control the clock and keep Choctaw’s offense off the field.
- Quarterback Play – Cooper Stidham vs. Choctaw County’s Secondary
- Cooper Stidham will look to exploit Choctaw County’s secondary, with his ability to pass and run. Choctaw’s defense must tighten up and prevent Stidham from extending plays or finding Ivy downfield.
- Special Teams and Turnovers
- Both teams have had solid seasons, but special teams and turnovers can often be the deciding factor in playoff games. Avoiding mistakes and capitalizing on field position will be key.
Common Opponents
| School | East Webster Record | Choctaw County Record |
|---|---|---|
| Eupora | 1-0 | 1-0 |
| Aberdeen | 3-0 | 3-0 |
| Mooreville | 1-0 | 1-0 |
| Nettleton | 1-0 | 1-0 |
Both teams have been dominant against common opponents, showing their strength throughout the regular season. The East Webster vs. Choctaw County game on October 4 was a turning point, as Choctaw County defeated East Webster 49-21.
Record Breakdown
| Category | East Webster | Choctaw County |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 12-1 | 12-1 |
| District Record | 3-1 | 4-0 |
| Non-District Record | 6-0 | 5-1 |
| Points For | 544 | 529 |
| Points Against | 167 | 198 |
| Home Record | 6-0 | 4-1 |
| Away Record | 4-1 | 2-0 |
| Neutral Site Record | 2-0 | 3-0 |
| Playoff Record | 3-0 | 3-0 |
Prediction
East Webster enters the game with motivation after their 49-21 loss to Choctaw County earlier in the season. While Choctaw County has the edge in scoring and overall team depth, East Webster has a powerful rushing attack that could pose problems. If East Webster can capitalize on their ball control and defense, they might have a shot at revenge.
