The Far Rockaway (NY) varsity football team will host Long Island City (NY) in a home playoff game today at 12 p.m. The matchup is part of the 2024 Boys Fall Football NY PSAL State Tournament – PSAL AA.

Far Rockaway vs Long Island City Game Info:

What: New York High School Football Playoffs
Who: Far Rockaway vs Long Island City
When: Sunday, November 17, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Boys Fall Football NY PSAL State Tournament – PSAL AA
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Game preview: Far Rockaway vs Long Island City

In what promises to be an exciting playoff clash, the Long Island City Bulldogs (8-1) will square off against the Far Rockaway Seahawks (5-4) in a pivotal matchup that could determine who advances in the postseason. The game is set to kick off today at 12:00 p.m. at Far Rockaway’s home field, a rematch of the thrilling conference encounter from October, which saw Long Island City emerge victorious 21-12.

Team Overview and Recent Form

Long Island City Bulldogs
The Bulldogs have had a remarkable season, boasting an impressive overall record of 8-1 and dominating their league with a 7-1 performance. They’ve been especially strong on the road, with a flawless 4-0 away record. Their offensive unit has been potent, averaging 27.6 points per game, supported by a defense that has only allowed an average of 9.2 points. The Bulldogs have a well-rounded squad, with standout performances from key players like Carter Dumas, who averages 102.9 rushing yards per game, and Tim Hernandez, with 50 passing yards per game.

Far Rockaway Seahawks
The Seahawks enter this playoff with a respectable 5-4 overall record and a solid 5-3 league standing. While their season has had its ups and downs, they’ve shown resilience, especially at home, where they are 2-2. Despite a lower average of 21.8 points per game compared to Long Island City, Far Rockaway’s defense has displayed grit, keeping opponents to a manageable scoring average. However, they will need to improve on their earlier defeat to Long Island City and find ways to score consistently throughout the game.

Key Players and Stats

• Carter Dumas (Long Island City): The star running back has been a major asset, leading with 102.9 rushing yards per game. His ability to break tackles and create big plays will be crucial for the Bulldogs.
• Tim Hernandez (Long Island City): Hernandez’s leadership in the passing game provides balance to the Bulldogs’ offense, even if it is not as prolific as their ground attack.
• Josh Canela (Long Island City): A defensive powerhouse, Canela averages 6.7 tackles per game and has been pivotal in limiting opposing offenses.

Far Rockaway’s key contributors will need to step up to match Long Island City’s physicality and versatility. Their defense will be tested, particularly in the second quarter, where the Bulldogs have been most effective, averaging 8.8 points.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

The two teams have faced off once this season, with Long Island City securing a 21-12 victory. Both teams also share common opponents, each with a 1-1 record against those teams. Long Island City beat Lafayette 32-6, while Far Rockaway secured a massive 42-0 win over the same team. Both sides, however, stumbled against Springfield Gardens, with Long Island City losing 22-16 and Far Rockaway falling 16-8.

Keys to Victory

For Long Island City: They need to maintain their dominant rushing game and control the tempo. Establishing a strong lead early on and leveraging their sturdy defense to protect it will be critical. Playmakers like Dumas and Canela will need to step up and continue their season-long consistency.

For Far Rockaway: The Seahawks must start strong and avoid the scoreless early-game trend they’ve shown throughout the season. Scoring in the first half and finding ways to contain Long Island City’s running attack will be essential. Defensive adjustments and strategic play-calling could make the difference in this high-stakes rematch.

Game Outlook

With both teams fighting for playoff survival, the intensity is sure to be high. Long Island City comes in as the favorite, given their superior record and previous win over Far Rockaway. However, with the Seahawks playing at home and seeking redemption, anything can happen in this playoff showdown. Fans can expect a hard-fought game with both sides leaving it all on the field.

Kickoff is just hours away, and anticipation is building for what should be a memorable contest between two competitive squads.