The Grace Classical Christian Academy varsity football team from Granbury, TX, will face the West Texas Tornadoes from Slaton, TX, in a neutral-site playoff game on Saturday, November 30, at 11 a.m. This matchup is part of the “TAIAO 2024 Football Championships – Division III” tournament.
Grace Classical Christian Academy vs West Texas Tornadoes Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Grace Classical Christian Academy vs West Texas Tornadoes
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Bracket: TAIAO 2024 Football Championships – Division III
Time: 11:00 a.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Grace Classical Christian Academy vs West Texas Tornadoes
The West Texas Tornadoes and Grace Classical Christian Academy (GCCA) are nearing the conclusion of their respective seasons, and their performances reveal contrasting narratives. Despite both teams competing within the same regional framework, their paths have been shaped by distinct strengths, weaknesses, and challenges. Here’s a breakdown of their season so far and what to expect as the two teams prepare for a potential meeting.
Rankings and Records
The Tornadoes boast a 6-4 record with a 1-0 district standing, placing them 750th nationally and 158th in Texas. GCCA, by contrast, sits at 913th nationally and 178th in Texas with a 5-7 record and a 1-2 district mark. The Tornadoes’ win percentage stands at .600, far above GCCA’s .417, underscoring the Tornadoes’ edge in consistency.
Overall Record Breakdown:
- West Texas Tornadoes: 6-4 (1-0 district)
- GCCA: 5-7 (1-2 district)
Scoring Averages and Offensive Prowess
The Tornadoes have been dominant offensively, averaging 46.6 points per game compared to GCCA’s 26.5. The Tornadoes’ second-half performances, particularly in the fourth quarter where they average 11.0 points, highlight their ability to finish strong. GCCA shows early-game promise, especially in the first quarter with 6.0 points on average, but struggles to maintain momentum in the latter stages.
Quarterly Scoring Breakdown:
- West Texas Tornadoes:
- Q1: 5.0 | Q2: 4.8 | Q3: 6.3 | Q4: 11.0
- GCCA:
- Q1: 6.0 | Q2: 6.8 | Q3: 7.0 | Q4: 5.0
Team Statistics Comparison
West Texas Tornadoes hold the upper hand in total yardage, averaging 324.9 yards per game compared to GCCA’s 240.0. The Tornadoes’ balanced offense features 152.9 rushing yards and 172.0 passing yards per game. GCCA’s strength lies in its rushing game, with 168.3 yards per game, but their passing attack falls short at just 71.7 yards.
Key Team Stats:
- Total Yards: Tornadoes 324.9 | GCCA 240.0
- Rushing Yards: Tornadoes 152.9 | GCCA 168.3
- Passing Yards: Tornadoes 172.0 | GCCA 71.7
Player Leaders and Standouts
For the Tornadoes, #11 Isaac Kelly shines with 78.8 rushing yards per game and an impressive 15.2 points per game. Hunter Strickland (#7) contributes 89.6 passing yards per game and a solid 133.5 total yards per game. GCCA’s standout is #31 Keith Wyatt, who leads with 97.0 rushing yards and 11.0 points per game.
Top Performers:
- West Texas Tornadoes:
- Isaac Kelly: 78.8 rushing YPG | 15.2 PPG
- Hunter Strickland: 89.6 passing YPG | 133.5 total YPG
- GCCA:
- Keith Wyatt: 97.0 rushing YPG | 11.0 PPG
- Jones Bryce: 175.5 total YPG
Common Opponents and Playoff Outlook
Both teams faced Texas Wind, with the Tornadoes losing 80-52 and GCCA falling 54-26. Despite similar losses, the Tornadoes’ stronger district performance (1.000 win percentage) and offensive firepower position them as a playoff contender. GCCA’s struggles in non-league play (1-5) suggest they will need to rely on their ground game to have any postseason success.
Playoff Records:
- West Texas Tornadoes: 3-0 in neutral-site games
- GCCA: 3-0 in playoff situations
Conclusion
The West Texas Tornadoes enter the final stretch as a more balanced, explosive team with strong postseason prospects. GCCA, though resilient, must address their passing game and late-game consistency to close the season on a high note. If these two teams meet, the Tornadoes’ depth and offensive versatility will likely make the difference.
