The Wayne County varsity football team from Waynesboro, MS, will take on Gautier, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Gautier vs Wayne County
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 5A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Gautier vs. Wayne County
The Gautier Gators (10-1) will take on the Wayne County War Eagles (6-7) in a neutral-site playoff game on November 22. Gautier enters the game with an impressive 10-1 record, having dominated their district, while Wayne County has had a more challenging season with a 6-7 overall record but is coming off a strong district performance.
Season Recap: Gautier Gators
- Record: 10-1
- District Record: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 392 PF, 246 PA
- Scoring Average: 35.6 points per game
Gautier has been a dominant force in their district, finishing with a perfect district record. Their offense is high-powered, and they have been consistently scoring 30+ points per game. With a strong defensive unit as well, the Gators have allowed just 246 points all season. Gautier is coming into the playoffs with confidence and momentum.
Key Performances:
- Offense: The Gators are led by a balanced attack with a solid rushing game and efficient passing. They have averaged 35.6 points per game.
- Defense: Their defense has been stingy, holding opponents to just 22.3 points per game.
Season Recap: Wayne County War Eagles
- Record: 6-7
- District Record: 3-2
- Points For/Against: 297 PF, 337 PA
- Scoring Average: 22.8 points per game
Wayne County has had an up-and-down season, but their district record shows resilience. They have struggled on defense at times, allowing more points than they have scored, but they are still a dangerous team in the playoff setting. While not as high-scoring as Gautier, the War Eagles have the ability to keep games competitive, as shown in their district victories.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Wayne County has had some explosive moments, but consistency has been an issue, with their scoring averaging just 22.8 points per game.
- Defense: Their defense has been vulnerable at times, allowing 337 points, but they will look to make key stops in this playoff matchup.
Head-to-Head:
- October 18, 2024:
- Gautier 31, Wayne County 8
Gautier dominated in the previous meeting earlier this season, winning by a convincing 31-8 score. Wayne County will look to adjust and bounce back in the playoff rematch.
- Gautier 31, Wayne County 8
Common Opponents Analysis
| Opponent | Gautier Result | Wayne County Result |
|---|---|---|
| D’Iberville | L, 33-12 | L, 35-7 |
| Vancleave | W, 47-14 | W, 56-34 |
| East Central | W, 35-21 | W, 19-7 |
| Stone | W, 35-6 | L, 17-13 |
| Laurel | W, 42-6 | W, 20-6 |
Both teams have faced a mix of tough and competitive opponents. Gautier has had a more consistent run, winning most of their games, while Wayne County has faced a few more challenges, with losses to stronger teams like D’Iberville and Stone.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Gautier | Wayne County |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 172.1 | 116.4 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 158.5 | 153.2 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 330.6 | 269.6 |
| Points Per Game | 35.6 | 22.8 |
| Tackles Per Game | 65.1 | 61.8 |
| Sacks Per Game | 2.5 | 1.8 |
Gautier has the edge in almost every statistical category, including total yards, points per game, and defensive stats. Their balanced offensive attack and solid defense have given them a clear advantage this season.
Key Players to Watch
- Gautier:
- Quarterback: The Gators’ QB has been efficient in both the passing and running game, managing the offense well.
- Running Back: Gautier’s running game has been potent all season, and their ability to establish the run early could set the tone for the game.
- Defense: Gautier’s defense, led by strong tacklers and pass rushers, has been effective at limiting opponents’ scoring.
- Wayne County:
- Quarterback: Wayne County will rely on their QB to keep the offense balanced and move the ball efficiently against a strong Gautier defense.
- Key Playmakers: Wayne County’s ability to produce big plays from their running backs and receivers will be crucial in keeping up with Gautier’s offense.
- Defense: Wayne County needs to improve their defense to stop Gautier’s high-scoring attack and prevent big plays.
Keys to Victory
For Gautier:
- Stay Balanced on Offense: Gautier should continue to run the ball effectively while keeping the passing game efficient to keep Wayne County’s defense guessing.
- Defensive Pressure: Their defense needs to get to the quarterback and disrupt Wayne County’s offensive rhythm.
- Control the Tempo: Gautier can dictate the pace of the game by controlling possession and keeping Wayne County’s offense off the field.
For Wayne County:
- Improve Offensive Efficiency: Wayne County will need to capitalize on their offensive possessions and put together sustained drives.
- Defensive Stops: The War Eagles must make stops and limit Gautier’s big plays, especially in the second half, where the Gators tend to pull away.
- Turnover Margin: Wayne County could stay competitive by forcing turnovers and making Gautier play from behind.
Prediction:
Gautier’s perfect district season and overall superior statistics make them the heavy favorites. While Wayne County is capable of pulling off an upset, especially with their playoff experience, Gautier’s dominant offense and defense should prove too much to overcome in this matchup.
