The Gloria Deo Academy (Bulverde, TX) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Westlake Academy (Westlake, TX) on Saturday, November 23, at 2:00 PM at Zephyr Stadium. This game is part of the “TAIAO 2024 Football Championships – Division I” tournament.

Gloria Deo Academy vs Westlake Academy Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Gloria Deo Academy vs Westlake Academy
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: TAIAO 2024 Football Championships – Division I
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Game preview: Gloria Deo Academy vs Westlake Academy

As the 2024-2025 high school football season progresses, two teams stand out in the state rankings: Westlake Academy and Gloria Deo Academy. These two teams, boasting strong records and exciting players, are sure to deliver an intense battle on the field.

Team Overview

Westlake Academy enters the season with a respectable 8-4 overall record and a 5-2 district performance. While their defense has been solid, allowing an average of 38.6 points per game, they still manage to put up a competitive fight with 43.3 points per game on offense. Their rushing game leads the way, with Gunnar Barnard running for an average of 105.9 yards per game, and they also boast impressive passing yards with Nicolas Sansone totaling 132.1 yards per game. Despite a relatively tough schedule, their ability to generate yardage and score has kept them in contention.

On the other hand, Gloria Deo Academy shines with an impressive 9-1 overall record, dominating district play with a perfect 1.000 district win percentage. Their offense has been highly efficient, averaging 45.0 points per game, led by key players like Nolan Chandler (rushing for 94.6 yards per game) and Trip Kuper (passing for 115.2 yards per game). The team’s defensive unit is equally formidable, allowing just 186 points across the season, giving them a strong points differential.

Statistical Comparison

When comparing the two teams across various statistical categories, there are several notable differences:

• Scoring Efficiency: Gloria Deo Academy has been more consistent offensively, averaging 45.0 points per game, compared to Westlake Academy’s 42.3 points per game. However, Westlake has shown the ability to score quickly, especially in the opening quarter with 16.0 points per game.
• Total Yards: Westlake Academy averages a higher total of 334.4 yards per game compared to Gloria Deo’s 271.2 yards. This is mainly due to Westlake’s stronger rushing game, with 202.3 yards per game compared to Gloria Deo’s 157.5 yards.
• Defense: Both teams are relatively close in defensive stats, but Westlake slightly outpaces Gloria Deo in tackles per game, averaging 31.4 tackles, compared to Gloria Deo’s 30.7 tackles. Westlake also has more sacks per game at 1.4, while Gloria Deo records just 0.9.

Key Players to Watch

• Westlake Academy:
  • Gunnar Barnard: With 105.9 rushing yards per game, Barnard is a key part of Westlake’s ground game. His ability to break tackles and gain yards on crucial plays will be critical in maintaining offensive pressure.
  • Nicolas Sansone: As the primary passer, Sansone’s 132.1 passing yards per game will be crucial for opening up the offense and keeping Gloria Deo’s defense off balance.
• Gloria Deo Academy:
  • Nolan Chandler: Leading the ground game with 94.6 rushing yards per game, Chandler is a dual-threat back capable of both grinding out yards and finding the end zone.
  • Trip Kuper: With 115.2 passing yards per game, Kuper has been the engine driving the passing attack, often connecting with receivers like Evan Spondike and Caleb Ross for explosive plays.

Record Breakdown

• Home Field Advantage: Westlake Academy has a 5-3 home record, but Gloria Deo Academy has dominated on the road with a 7-1 away record. Westlake’s strong performance at home could give them an edge if they can defend their turf effectively.
• Head-to-Head: Neither team has faced off yet this season, so the upcoming matchup promises to be a thrilling contest with both teams eager to establish supremacy.
• Playoff Outlook: Both teams have playoff aspirations. Westlake Academy is 8-4 in-state, while Gloria Deo Academy has an undefeated 9-1 record. Their clash could set the tone for postseason positioning, particularly in a highly competitive district.

Conclusion

As the two teams gear up for their highly anticipated clash, Gloria Deo Academy enters as the favorite with a superior overall record and more consistent offensive and defensive performances. However, Westlake Academy will not go down easily. With a potent offense and solid defense, they have all the tools needed to challenge Gloria Deo’s dominance.

Football fans can expect a thrilling contest as these two teams go head-to-head, each aiming to make their mark on the season.