Emerald Ridge vs. Gonzaga Prep: A Comparison of Two Top Teams

The 2024-2025 high school football season has seen remarkable performances from both Emerald Ridge and Gonzaga Prep, two powerhouse teams from Washington State. Their records, individual stats, and team dynamics offer a fascinating comparison as they each strive for success in their respective leagues. Here’s a breakdown of these two teams based on their season statistics and team performances.

Record and Performance Breakdown

Emerald Ridge (7-3)
Emerald Ridge has had a solid season with a 7-3 overall record. They’ve achieved a 4-1 record in district play, dominating their home games with a 3-1 record. Their performance on the road has been competitive with a 4-2 record overall. The team has averaged 22.7 points per game (PPG) and has allowed 17.5 points per game. Despite facing strong opponents, they have proven to be a resilient squad in both offensive and defensive phases of the game.

Gonzaga Prep (10-0)
In contrast, Gonzaga Prep has been flawless with a perfect 10-0 record. The team has not only dominated in league play, finishing 5-0, but they’ve also been undefeated on the road and at home. With an average of 37.3 points per game and a strong defensive presence, allowing only 14.9 points per game, Gonzaga Prep has shown why they are considered one of the top teams in Washington state. Their overall stats reflect a team that has consistently outperformed its opponents in both offensive efficiency and defensive shutdown.

Scoring Breakdown

When it comes to scoring, both teams demonstrate distinct styles of play:

Emerald Ridge Scoring
Emerald Ridge averages 7.5 points in the first quarter, but their scoring drops off significantly in the second quarter to just 5.0. They manage to find some momentum again in the fourth quarter with 4.0 points, culminating in a total of 22.7 points per game. The team’s offense is somewhat inconsistent, particularly in the third quarter, where they average only 1.5 points.

Gonzaga Prep Scoring
Gonzaga Prep, on the other hand, is much more balanced in their scoring approach, with an average of 5.9 points in the first quarter, 10.3 points in the second, and 9.7 points in the third. They maintain a steady offensive rhythm, finishing strong with 8.7 points in the final quarter. This steady performance across all four quarters explains their higher scoring average of 37.3 points per game.

Key Team Stats and Leaders

Emerald Ridge

• Rushing: Mal mal Akuffo has been a key player for Emerald Ridge, averaging 73.7 rushing yards per game.
• Passing: Ben Druckman has been the team’s leader in the air, throwing for 114.8 yards per game.
• Receiving: Logan Lipscomb leads the receiving corps with 71.5 yards per game.
• Defense: Carson Cody contributes with 8.2 tackles per game, while Elijah Wallace has been the defensive standout with 1.6 sacks per game.

Gonzaga Prep
While Gonzaga Prep does not show as much individual statistical prominence, their team-oriented play has helped them achieve a perfect season. The team’s balance across the board—whether in rushing, passing, or receiving—has been a key factor in their success. Though no individual player’s stats were as prominent as Emerald Ridge’s standout performers, Gonzaga Prep’s overall depth is apparent, particularly in their perfect district record and solid point differential.

Offensive Comparison

In terms of yardage, Emerald Ridge averages 279.0 total yards per game, with a balanced distribution across rushing (136.9 yards), passing (142.1 yards), and receiving (142.1 yards). This balance has allowed them to compete with a variety of opponents, but it is clear that they rely on a mixed approach to move the ball down the field.

On the other hand, Gonzaga Prep has maintained a more efficient offensive game with less reliance on yardage statistics. While specific rushing and passing averages were not provided, their overall dominance in scoring points and limiting opponent yards shows the efficiency of their system.

Head-to-Head and Playoff Outlook

Although the two teams have yet to face each other, their records suggest they could meet in a critical playoff game, which would be highly anticipated by fans and scouts alike. Gonzaga Prep’s 10-0 record and perfect district play give them an edge heading into postseason play, but Emerald Ridge’s ability to stay competitive and their well-rounded offense make them a team to watch.

Conclusion

As the 2024-2025 season progresses, both Emerald Ridge and Gonzaga Prep stand out as top contenders in Washington state high school football. Emerald Ridge has shown resilience and strong individual performances throughout the season, while Gonzaga Prep has been nearly unbeatable, dominating with efficiency and balance. Their paths might cross in the playoffs, where the stakes will be higher, and the question remains: Can Emerald Ridge’s balanced offense challenge Gonzaga Prep’s perfect record?

Regardless of the outcome, these two teams have proven they are among the best in the state and will continue to be forces to reckon with.