The Eastern (Washington, DC) varsity football team will host Coolidge (Washington, DC) in a home playoff game today at 11 a.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Washington, DC High School Football
Who: Eastern vs Coolidge
When: Today, November 16, 2024
Time: 11:00. a.m. ET
“2024 DCSAA Football State Tournament – Class AA”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Rivalry Renewed: Coolidge vs. Eastern (2024-2025 Season Preview)

The high school football season has been nothing short of exciting, with both the Coolidge Colts and Eastern Ramblers showing promise in their respective campaigns. The stakes are high as these two teams prepare for their playoff showdown today, following a season of thrilling performances and intense rivalry. Let’s take a closer look at the two teams’ journeys so far, compare their statistics, and examine the critical factors that could determine the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup.

Team Records & Overall Performance

As the season nears its conclusion, Coolidge has posted a 5-5 overall record (4-2 in the league), reflecting a relatively balanced performance. At home, they have been more vulnerable, with a 2-3 record, but they have shown resilience on the road, recording a 3-2 record away from home. With 174 points scored and 197 points allowed, Coolidge has had its share of ups and downs this season.

Eastern, on the other hand, has performed more consistently. With a 7-3 overall record (4-2 in the league), Eastern enters the playoffs with a strong performance both at home and on the road. They have been dominant at home, going 4-1, and have displayed a formidable offense, outscoring their opponents 348 to 139 points. Their 7-3 record stands as a testament to their offensive power and defensive discipline.

Head-to-Head: Eastern Takes Round One

The teams met earlier this season in a thrilling matchup on October 11, where Eastern emerged victorious with a 34-27 win over Coolidge. The game saw Eastern dominate in the first half, capitalizing on key moments, while Coolidge fought hard to close the gap in the latter stages. Eastern’s victory gives them the upper hand in their rivalry this season, but Coolidge will be seeking redemption in today’s playoff game.

Key Team Statistics: Coolidge vs. Eastern

When it comes to offensive and defensive statistics, Eastern holds the edge in several categories.

• Rushing Yards: Eastern averages an impressive 248.2 rushing yards per game, significantly more than Coolidge’s 144.3.
• Passing Yards: Coolidge is ahead in the passing game, averaging 190.3 yards per game, while Eastern’s aerial attack averages 145.7 yards.
• Total Yards: Eastern also leads in total yards, averaging 393.9 yards per game compared to Coolidge’s 334.7.
• Defensive Strength: Coolidge boasts a stronger defense in terms of tackles per game (62.8 vs. Eastern’s 45.0) and is slightly ahead in sacks per game (3.2 vs. Eastern’s 3.9).

Scoring Breakdown: A Tale of Two Offenses

One of the most striking differences between these two teams is their scoring distribution. Coolidge’s offense has been inconsistent, averaging just 17.4 points per game. They have struggled to maintain momentum in the first and fourth quarters, only averaging 2.5 and 1.8 points respectively during these periods.

In contrast, Eastern’s offense is more balanced and dynamic. They have been dominant in the first quarter, averaging a massive 22.7 points in the opening frame. Although their scoring drops off in the second quarter, they make up for it with solid performances in the third and fourth quarters, finishing with an average of 34.8 points per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Coolidge: Jacieon “Way” Robertson leads the rushing attack for Coolidge with 86.0 yards per game, while Aleem Moore is their most prolific passer, with 223.1 passing yards per game. Nazir McKenzie is their top receiver with 82.4 yards per game.
• Eastern: Daquan Ginyard has been a force on the ground for Eastern, averaging 192.3 rushing yards per game. Jeremiah Hubbard leads the team in passing with 139.4 yards per game, and Jamel Howe is a standout receiver with 28.2 yards per game.

Common Opponents: A Comparison

Both teams have faced similar opponents throughout the season, though Eastern has had a slightly better record in these matchups. Coolidge went 4-1 against common opponents, while Eastern posted a 3-2 record. Notably, both teams secured wins against Ballou and Woodson, but Eastern’s victory against Roosevelt stands out as a particularly strong performance.

Playoff Implications

With both teams reaching the playoffs, this matchup represents more than just a rivalry game. It is a battle for supremacy in Washington, DC high school football. Eastern’s superior scoring and overall balance make them the favorites, but Coolidge’s defensive strength and ability to control the game on the ground could create an upset. The result of this game will likely come down to whether Coolidge can slow down Eastern’s high-powered offense and capitalize on key moments.

Conclusion: Who Will Prevail?

As both teams step onto the field today, Eastern holds the upper hand, but Coolidge has shown that they are capable of competing with anyone. With the stakes high and a season’s worth of preparation behind them, this playoff game is sure to be one for the ages. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle, with both teams leaving everything on the field. Will Eastern continue their dominance, or will Coolidge find a way to upset the odds? We’ll find out soon.