The Leeds (AL) varsity football team will face Fairview (Cullman, AL) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs in the 5A division, as both teams compete for a chance to advance in the tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Alabama High School Football
Who: Fairview vs Leeds
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs – 5A
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Fairview vs. Leeds

This Friday, November 15, the undefeated Fairview Aggies (10-0) will face the Leeds Greenwave (9-2) in a neutral playoff game at 7 p.m., part of the 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs in the 5A division. The game promises to be a thrilling matchup, with both teams showcasing powerful offenses and stifling defenses.

Team Records and Rankings

Fairview enters the game with a perfect 10-0 record, finishing their regular season with a 6-0 region record. They have dominated opponents with a high-scoring offense and solid defense, averaging 38.6 points per game while allowing 18.2. Leeds, at 9-2, has been equally impressive, with a 5-1 region record. They boast an offense that scores 36.9 points per game and a defense that has allowed 24.5.

Statistical Breakdown

Both teams rely heavily on their rushing attacks. Fairview averages 328.3 rushing yards per game, led by Jake Harper, who has rushed for 173.5 yards per game. Leeds counters with a powerful ground game of its own, averaging 293.9 rushing yards per game, powered by Conner Nelson, who has rushed for 137.2 yards per game. Leeds also has a slightly more balanced offense, with a passing game averaging 91.5 yards per game compared to Fairview’s 125.9.

In the passing game, Fairview’s Kolt Redding leads the way with 104.4 passing yards per game, while Leeds’ Conner Nelson contributes 86.5 passing yards per game. Both teams feature key receivers—Fairview’s Cayden Griffin with 104.0 receiving yards per game and Leeds’ Taylon Gaiter with 44.2 yards per game.

Defensively, both teams excel. Fairview averages 43.7 tackles per game and has recorded 0.9 sacks per game. Leeds, however, leads in the sack department with 1.3 per game and averages 57.4 tackles per game, anchored by Reginald Franklin Jr. with 8.2 tackles per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Fairview: Jake Harper (173.5 rushing yards per game, 13.8 points per game), Kolt Redding (104.4 passing yards per game), Cayden Griffin (104.0 receiving yards per game).
• Leeds: Conner Nelson (137.2 rushing yards per game, 16.5 points per game), Taylon Gaiter (44.2 receiving yards per game), Reginald Franklin Jr. (8.2 tackles per game).

Common Opponents

Both teams share one common opponent this season: Springville. Fairview defeated Springville 41-17, while Leeds also earned a victory, winning 42-14. This provides some insight into the teams’ relative strength, as both were dominant in their matchups.

Final Thoughts

With Fairview’s perfect season on the line and Leeds looking to extend their playoff run, this game is set to be an exciting showdown. Both teams are strong in different aspects of the game, making this a closely contested matchup. The winner will advance further into the playoffs, while the loser will see their season end. Football fans in the 5A division won’t want to miss this pivotal game.