The Billings Central Catholic varsity football team (Billings, MT) will host Fergus (Lewistown, MT) in a home playoff game today at 1 p.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 Montana High School Football Playoff Brackets: MHSA – Class A” tournament.

Fergus vs Billings Central Catholic Football Game Info:

What: Montana High School Football Playoffs
Who: Fergus vs Billings Central Catholic
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m.
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Game preview: Fergus vs Billings Central Catholic

As the high school football playoffs heat up, two of Montana’s top teams are set to clash in a highly anticipated matchup. The Fergus Golden Eagles (9-2) will travel to face the undefeated Billings Central Catholic Rams (10-0) today at 1 p.m. at Billings Central Catholic, after a dominant 39-0 victory by the Rams in their previous meeting on October 4th.

Team Overview and Records

Fergus (9-2, 6-1 Region)
Fergus enters the playoff game with a strong 9-2 overall record, having excelled in their region with a 6-1 mark. The Golden Eagles have shown their resilience this season, with standout performances from their leaders. Senior Brendin Fiscus has been a key player, rushing for an average of 33.2 yards per game. McKay Shobe has also been vital for Fergus, contributing both in passing yards (111.2 per game) and total yards (168.4 per game). Despite their success, Fergus will need to adjust and improve on their low scoring average of 15.9 points per game to stand a chance against a formidable Billings Central Catholic team.

Billings Central Catholic (10-0, 6-0 Region)
Billings Central Catholic comes into this game with an unblemished 10-0 record. The Rams have dominated all season, with an impressive offensive output of 40.4 points per game. Key contributors such as Ayden Salter, who averages 69.5 rushing yards per game, and Howie Martin, who leads the team with 139.2 passing yards per game, have made the Rams one of the top teams in the state. Their defense has also been nearly impenetrable, allowing just 82 points all season, with a remarkable average of only 8.2 points per game allowed.

Previous Meeting

In their earlier encounter on October 4th, Billings Central Catholic completely shut down Fergus, winning 39-0. The Rams’ defense was relentless, and their offense exploded in the second and third quarters, outscoring Fergus 27-0 in those frames. While Fergus has had a successful season, they’ll need a much better performance this time to overcome the undefeated Rams.

Key Stats Comparison

Individual Standouts

Fergus Key Players:

• Brendin Fiscus (33.2 rushing yards/game) – The standout rusher will need to power the offense and keep the clock moving to limit Billings Central’s chances.
• McKay Shobe (111.2 passing yards/game) – As the main passing threat, Shobe will need to find success through the air to keep the Rams’ defense guessing.
• Peyton Hartford (4.0 tackles/game) – The defensive leader will need to anchor the Golden Eagles’ defense and slow down Billings Central’s explosive offense.

Billings Central Catholic Key Players:

• Ayden Salter (69.5 rushing yards/game) – The powerful back will look to carry the Rams’ offense and keep their high-scoring attack rolling.
• Howie Martin (139.2 passing yards/game) – With his strong arm and leadership, Martin will continue to lead the Rams’ potent passing attack.
• Layne Alexander (7.8 tackles/game) – The linebacker will need to anchor a defense that has allowed just 82 points all season and stifle any potential scoring opportunities from Fergus.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced a similar slate of opponents, but Billings Central Catholic has emerged victorious in every matchup. Notable victories for the Rams include a dominant 55-0 win over Sidney, while Fergus earned a 49-8 win in their meeting with the same team. Other common opponents include Lockwood, Laurel, and Dawson County, all of which saw victories for both teams.

What’s at Stake

For Fergus, this game is an opportunity for redemption and an uphill battle against the state’s top team. With their 9-2 record, they have proven they can compete at a high level, but they must improve upon their performance in the previous meeting to challenge Billings Central Catholic’s dominance.

For Billings Central Catholic, the goal is simple: remain undefeated and continue their march toward a state championship. With a perfect 10-0 record and a defense that has allowed just 82 points all season, the Rams are the team to beat and will be looking to keep their momentum going in the postseason.

Conclusion

The stage is set for a thrilling playoff game as Fergus faces Billings Central Catholic for a chance to continue their postseason journey. While the Rams come in as the favorites, the Golden Eagles will be looking to turn the tide and make a statement. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. today—don’t miss this exciting matchup between two of Montana’s best high school football teams.