The Fairfield Central Griffins (9-1) from Winnsboro, SC, will host the Chesterfield Golden Rams (6-4) on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m. in a home playoff game. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AA Football tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Fairfield Central vs Chesterfield
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AA Football
Watch here: Watch here

Game preview: Fairfield Central vs Chesterfield

The stage is set for an exciting high school football matchup between Chesterfield and Fairfield Central, two teams with contrasting records and play styles. As the season nears its climax, both teams are preparing for the final stretch of games, and this showdown promises to be a key moment in determining their playoff fates.

Team Records & Standings

Chesterfield (6-4 overall) enters this game with a solid but inconsistent record, having struggled in region play with a 1-4 record. However, their 5-1 performance at home demonstrates their ability to dominate on their turf. Offensively, Chesterfield has managed to score an average of 29.1 points per game, though their defense has allowed 245 points throughout the season, indicating areas for improvement.

On the other hand, Fairfield Central has been nearly unstoppable this season, boasting a 9-1 overall record. They have been perfect in region play with a 4-0 record, showing their dominance against regional opponents. The team has been a scoring machine, averaging an impressive 41.7 points per game and allowing only 127 points all season. Their offense, led by standout players, has been one of the most formidable in the state.

Offensive Powerhouses

Offensively, both teams have had their strengths. Chesterfield’s offense has been largely powered by Tj McBride, who has rushed for 110.0 yards per game, and Bryce Adams, who has thrown for 124.0 passing yards per game. Despite averaging 29.1 points per game, their offensive production hasn’t been as explosive as Fairfield Central’s.

Fairfield Central, on the other hand, is led by the dynamic Tydarion Grier, who averages an impressive 148.6 rushing yards per game. With a strong supporting cast, including Ford Davis and Jayden Boyd, their offense has put up some high numbers. They’ve been particularly dominant in the running game, with an average of 243.0 rushing yards per game, making them a dangerous team in both the air and on the ground.

Defensive Standings

Defensively, Chesterfield has struggled at times, allowing 245 points across the season. However, they’ve managed to generate some defensive stops, with Chauncery Turner leading the team with 10.3 tackles per game and contributing to their 1.9 sacks per game.

Fairfield Central’s defense, while not as heavily focused on sacks, has been highly effective at limiting opponents’ scoring, allowing just 127 points throughout the season. The defensive unit has averaged 77.8 tackles per game, led by Jayden Boyd and Ford Davis, making it tough for opposing offenses to find rhythm.

Head-to-Head & Common Opponents

Both teams have faced common opponents, which provides valuable insight into their abilities. In a recent matchup with C.A. Johnson, both teams emerged victorious, with Chesterfield winning 49-12 and Fairfield Central securing a 52-0 win. In a tougher contest against Andrew Jackson, Chesterfield fell short, losing 32-14, while Fairfield Central easily triumphed 36-7. This illustrates Fairfield Central’s consistent dominance against similar opponents, further reinforcing their reputation as one of the top teams in the state.

Looking Ahead

As both teams continue to prepare for what could be a defining game of the season, the Chesterfield vs. Fairfield Central matchup promises to showcase contrasting styles of play. Chesterfield will need to step up their defense and find a way to limit Fairfield Central’s explosive offensive attack if they hope to pull off an upset. Meanwhile, Fairfield Central will look to continue their dominance and prove they are the top team in the region.

With high stakes and playoff implications on the line, this game is one that fans won’t want to miss. Will Chesterfield’s home-field advantage and grit be enough to overcome Fairfield Central’s offensive juggernaut, or will Fairfield Central continue their path toward an undefeated region season? The answer will come soon enough in what promises to be a thrilling football showdown.