The Foxcroft Academy varsity football team from Dover-Foxcroft, ME, will play a neutral-site playoff game against Winslow High School (ME) on Friday, November 15.
What: Maine High School Football
Who: Foxcroft Academy (ME) vs Winslow (ME)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: Today
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
Foxcroft Academy vs. Winslow High School: A Clash of Football Titans
As high school football in Maine approaches the playoff showdown between Foxcroft Academy and Winslow High School, excitement is building for what promises to be a highly competitive game on November 15, 2024. With both teams bringing strong seasons and distinct playing styles, here’s a look at the stats, key differences, and what each team brings to the field.
Season Overview
Foxcroft Academy enters the game with an unblemished record of 11-0, including a perfect 6-0 in their league and 3-0 in non-league matches. Their scoring efficiency and strong defense are evident in the season-long points-for (PF) to points-against (PA) ratio of 369-86. Foxcroft has excelled both at home and away, reflecting their versatility and dominance across all environments.
Winslow High School also put together a respectable season with a record of 7-4, which includes a solid 4-2 performance in league games and an overall .636 win percentage. Winslow’s PF to PA ratio is 378-233, showing they can score consistently, though they’ve faced tougher opposition compared to Foxcroft, resulting in a few more losses. Winslow has held its own, especially in home games with a 3-2 record, but they’re entering this matchup with more to prove after falling to Foxcroft 35-3 in their regular-season meeting on September 21, 2024.
Scoring Averages by Quarter
The scoring breakdown reveals distinct quarter-by-quarter trends for both teams:
- Winslow: With a final game average of 34.4 points, Winslow’s offensive production is most consistent in the second and fourth quarters, scoring 10.5 and 11.8 points on average, respectively. Their ability to finish strong in the fourth quarter could be critical in keeping up with Foxcroft, though they tend to start slower than their rivals.
- Foxcroft Academy: Foxcroft’s average final score of 33.5 points is similarly impressive, but their scoring pattern is more balanced across the game. They come out strong in both the first and third quarters, averaging 14 points in each. Foxcroft’s tendency to set the pace early in games could pose a challenge for Winslow, who may have to play catch-up if they fall behind early.
Head-to-Head
In their previous matchup, Foxcroft Academy showed its dominance by defeating Winslow 35-3. That performance displayed Foxcroft’s ability to shut down Winslow’s offense while efficiently putting points on the board. This game serves as a clear indicator of Foxcroft’s strength, and Winslow will need to significantly adjust their approach to change the outcome in this playoff rematch.
Common Opponents and Recent Performances
Both teams faced common opponents, with Foxcroft Academy recording a flawless 6-0 record against them, while Winslow went 3-1. Notably, Foxcroft and Winslow each defeated Belfast and Old Town, but Foxcroft did so with larger margins. Foxcroft also performed better against John Bapst Memorial, whom they defeated 42-20 compared to Winslow’s 35-21 loss.
Playoff and Neutral Site Performance
With both teams undefeated in neutral-site playoff games this season, the stage is set for a competitive clash. Foxcroft’s 2-0 playoff record and Winslow’s 3-0 playoff record demonstrate both teams’ resilience and adaptability. However, Winslow’s two neutral wins were in more challenging matches, which may serve them well against Foxcroft’s relentless consistency.
Key Points to Watch
- Defense and Consistency: Foxcroft’s defense has been stellar, allowing only 86 points across the season. Winslow’s defense will need to step up significantly to keep pace.
- Early Game Momentum: Foxcroft’s high scoring in the first quarter may dictate the game’s flow. If they establish a lead early, Winslow could face a tough comeback challenge.
- Adjustments from the First Matchup: Winslow’s coaches will need a game plan to address Foxcroft’s strengths seen in the 35-3 September loss. Winslow’s resilience this season could bring a closer matchup.
Prediction
While Winslow has demonstrated heart and adaptability, Foxcroft Academy’s unbeaten record, impressive point differential, and balanced scoring across quarters make them the favorites heading into the November 15 playoff clash. If Winslow can disrupt Foxcroft’s rhythm and maintain strong defensive play, they could push Foxcroft for a closer game this time around. However, with both teams at the top of their game, fans can expect an exciting showdown in this playoff matchup.
