The Ganado (TX) varsity football team will host Marlin (TX) in a playoff game on Thursday, December 5, at 7:00 PM at Toyota Rattler Stadium. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 2A Division 1” tournament.
Ganado vs Marlin Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Ganado vs Marlin
When: Thursday, December 5, 2024
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 2A D1
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Ganado vs Marlin
As the 2024 high school football season nears its climax, two powerhouses—Marlin and Ganado—are set to collide. Both teams boast stellar records and impressive stats, but only one can emerge victorious. Here’s a breakdown of what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Season Performance and Rankings
Marlin (10-3) holds strong rankings within their district and state, currently 143rd in Texas and 6th in their division. However, their opponent, Ganado, is a step ahead. At 12-1, Ganado is ranked 112th in Texas and 3rd in their division. Both teams are undefeated in district play, with Marlin’s district record at 5-0 and Ganado’s at 6-0.
Scoring Trends
Ganado’s explosive offense averages 47.1 points per game, with a consistent scoring pace throughout all four quarters. In contrast, Marlin averages 33.6 points per game, with their best performances in the first quarter, averaging 9.4 points. Ganado’s defense complements their offense, allowing just 127 points this season compared to Marlin’s 162.
Team Stat Comparison
Marlin has the edge in rushing, averaging 182.0 rushing yards per game, while Ganado trails slightly at 151.1. However, Ganado’s passing game is a force to be reckoned with, posting 211.5 passing yards per game compared to Marlin’s 126.2. This gives Ganado a significant advantage in total yards, averaging 362.5 per game to Marlin’s 308.2.
On defense, Marlin shines with 56.4 tackles and 2.3 sacks per game, outpacing Ganado in both categories. Yet, Ganado’s offensive line, with 36 pancake blocks, has been crucial in their high-scoring performances.
Key Players to Watch
For Marlin, quarterback Roderick Suiters is a dual threat, averaging 126.2 passing yards and 178.0 total yards per game. Running back De’Angelo Wright adds 67.5 rushing yards per game, while Jordan Womack leads the receiving corps and contributes on defense with 0.8 sacks per game.
Ganado counters with Bryce Ullman, who averages an impressive 229.4 passing yards and 248.4 total yards per game. Logan Bures, their leading rusher, contributes 96.3 yards per game and scores 12.6 points per game. Wide receiver Cain Hayden and linebacker Landon Hicks are also pivotal in Ganado’s balanced attack.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced and defeated Crawford and Schulenburg this season. Notably, Ganado’s dominance against Crawford (59-0) and Schulenburg (61-31) underscores their high-powered offense, compared to Marlin’s solid but less overwhelming victories over the same opponents.
The Road to the Showdown
Marlin enters the game with a playoff record of 3-0, while Ganado has been equally flawless at 3-0 in the postseason. The stakes are high as both teams aim to solidify their legacies with a championship berth on the line.
Prediction
This matchup is a classic offense-versus-defense clash. Ganado’s high-scoring offense will be tested against Marlin’s aggressive defensive unit. If Marlin can slow down Ganado’s aerial attack and control the game on the ground, they stand a chance to pull off an upset. However, Ganado’s balanced attack and experience in high-pressure games make them slight favorites.
Expect a battle of wits, skill, and endurance in what promises to be one of the season’s most exciting games.
