The Gaffney (SC) varsity football team is hosting T.L. Hanna (Anderson, SC) in a playoff game today at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2” tournament.

Gaffney vs T.L. Hanna Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Gaffney vs T.L. Hanna
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Gaffney vs T.L. Hanna

In a matchup that promises to be a spectacle of South Carolina high school football, T.L. Hanna and Gaffney will face off in a battle of two highly ranked and evenly matched teams. Both programs boast impressive records, dynamic offenses, and stout defenses, setting the stage for an epic showdown.

Season Recap and Records

T.L. Hanna enters the contest with a 9-2 overall record, including a 6-1 mark in region play. Their home field advantage has been significant, as they hold a 4-1 record in Anderson. The team has displayed offensive fireworks throughout the season, outscoring opponents 442-285.

Gaffney, meanwhile, has compiled an even stronger record at 9-1 overall and 5-1 in region play. The Indians are undefeated on the road, a testament to their resilience in hostile environments. Gaffney’s defense has been a standout, allowing just 160 points this season while their offense has produced 316 points.

Statistical Matchup

The two teams excel in different areas, offering an intriguing contrast in styles:

• T.L. Hanna’s Strengths:
  T.L. Hanna thrives on explosive scoring, averaging 40.2 points per game. Their attack is well-balanced, with quarterback Jayvon Gilmore leading the way, averaging 197.3 passing yards per game and contributing 216.2 total yards per game. Receiver Jamarcus Smith is his favorite target, adding 88.7 receiving yards per game to the offensive output.
• Gaffney’s Edge:
  Gaffney emphasizes efficiency, averaging 31.7 points per game. Their rushing attack, led by Gertavious Harris, is potent at 172 yards per game. Harris’ contributions complement a defense that records 2.8 sacks per game and holds opponents to minimal scoring opportunities.

Common Opponents

Both teams boast perfect records against shared opponents, showcasing their dominance against comparable competition:

• T.L. Hanna’s Results:
  • Defeated James F. Byrnes 19-16
  • Overpowered J.L. Mann 42-20
  • Handled Greenville 48-27
• Gaffney’s Results:
  • Edged James F. Byrnes 15-9
  • Won a high-scoring thriller against J.L. Mann 42-40
  • Dominated Greenville 54-14

These results highlight Gaffney’s defensive prowess and T.L. Hanna’s offensive firepower, with each team exploiting their strengths to secure victories.

Key Players to Watch

• T.L. Hanna:
  • Jayvon Gilmore (QB): The engine of the offense, capable of making plays through the air and on the ground.
  • Jamarcus Smith (WR): A dynamic playmaker who can change the game with his receiving ability.
  • Zyon Ratchford (LB): Anchors the defense with 5.1 tackles per game.
• Gaffney:
  • Gertavious Harris (RB): A reliable rushing threat who can wear down opposing defenses.
  • Kendaris Bailey (DE): Disruptive on the defensive line, averaging 0.9 sacks per game.
  • Shane Davidson (K): Consistently delivers in pressure moments, contributing 7.7 points per game.

What to Expect

This game will likely hinge on two key factors: T.L. Hanna’s ability to maintain its offensive rhythm and Gaffney’s capacity to disrupt that rhythm with their tough defense. Additionally, special teams and turnovers could swing the momentum in what is expected to be a tightly contested affair.

With both teams ranked in the top 10 in their respective classes, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether it’s T.L. Hanna’s quick-strike offense or Gaffney’s suffocating defense, fans can expect nothing short of high school football at its finest.