The Tularosa (NM) varsity football team will face Eunice (NM) in a neutral playoff game today at 1:00 PM at Tularosa High School. This game is part of the 2024 Nusenda Credit Union State Football Championships – 2A tournament.

Eunice vs Tularosa Football Game Info:

What: New Mexico High School Football Playoffs
Who: Eunice vs Tularosa
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m.
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Game preview: Eunice vs Tularosa

The stage is set for an exciting playoff matchup between the Eunice (24-25) and Tularosa (24-25) high school football teams. Both squads are coming off impressive seasons and will face off in a neutral-site playoff game today at 1 PM. Let’s break down what fans can expect as these two teams battle for a spot in the next round of the postseason.

Team Overview

• Eunice (8-3 overall, 2-2 in district) enters this game with a strong record and an explosive offense. They have averaged 42.6 points per game, led by quarterback Elijah Melancon, who has racked up 259.9 passing yards per game. Eunice’s rushing game, anchored by Eljan Woods with 99.3 yards per game, is also a key component of their high-powered offense. The team has an impressive balance, generating 434.5 total yards per game.
• Tularosa (6-4 overall, 3-1 in district) has had a solid season, with a strong showing in district play, finishing with a 4-1 road record. While they average fewer points per game (24.6), their defense has been resilient, allowing just 238 points on the season. Their offense, led by quarterback Seth Kazhe and running back Michael Hood, has been more run-focused, averaging 95.2 rushing yards per game and 56.2 passing yards per game.

Recent Head-to-Head

These two teams met last month in a thrilling conference game that saw Tularosa edge out Eunice in a 39-36 victory. The close nature of that game suggests that fans are in for another tight contest, as both teams bring high levels of intensity and skill.

Key Stats and Player Matchups

• Eunice’s Offensive Power: The Eunice offense has been dynamic this season, particularly in the first quarter, where they average 14 points per game. Their passing attack, led by Elijah Melancon, has been one of the strongest in the state. The combination of Melancon’s 259.9 passing yards per game and Woods’ 99.3 rushing yards per game gives Eunice a dual-threat capability.
• Tularosa’s Defensive Resilience: While Tularosa’s offense is more balanced between run and pass, their defense has been crucial in their success. Their defensive leader, Joshua Saunders, has been a key player, with an average of 8.0 tackles per game. Tularosa’s defense will need to step up again to slow down Eunice’s high-scoring offense.
• Scoring Differences: Eunice has shown an ability to score at will, particularly in the first half, averaging 22.8 points in the first two quarters. Meanwhile, Tularosa has struggled in the first half, averaging just 4.7 points in the first quarter and scoring no points in the second quarter in recent games. This stark contrast in offensive output could play a pivotal role in today’s matchup.

Team Leaders

• Eunice:
  • Elijah Melancon: 259.9 passing yards per game
  • Eljan Woods: 99.3 rushing yards per game
  • Maddox Mata: 74.3 receiving yards per game
  • Eljan Woods: 15.0 points per game
• Tularosa:
  • Seth Kazhe: 112.4 total yards per game
  • Michael Hood: 67.2 rushing yards per game
  • Estevan Barraza: 39.5 receiving yards per game
  • Seth Kazhe: 4.8 points per game

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opponents this season and have performed similarly. Both Eunice and Tularosa have posted a 4-1 record against common opponents, with wins over Ruidoso, Estancia, and Jal. The ability of both teams to perform consistently against similar competition bodes well for a competitive playoff matchup.

Playoff Hopes

This game will be critical for both teams, as a victory will keep their playoff dreams alive. Eunice enters as the higher-seeded team but will need to bounce back from last month’s close loss to Tularosa. Tularosa, on the other hand, will look to prove that their previous victory was no fluke and that they can continue their playoff run.

Conclusion

With high stakes on the line, the Eunice vs. Tularosa playoff game promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair. Eunice’s high-scoring offense faces off against Tularosa’s determined defense, and both teams will be looking to make adjustments after their first meeting this season. Fans can expect fireworks, as both teams are hungry for a playoff victory.

Will Eunice’s offensive firepower be enough to overcome Tularosa’s defense? Or will Tularosa’s grit and determination lead them to another win over Eunice? One thing is for sure: it’s going to be an unforgettable game.