The Staples (Westport, CT) varsity football team will face Greenwich (CT) in a neutral-site playoff game today at 12:30 PM at Staples High School. This game is part of the 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets for CIAC Class LL.
Greenwich vs Staples High School Football Game Info:
What: Connecticut High School Football
Who: Greenwich vs Staples
When: Sunday, December 8, 2024
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets: CIAC – Class LL
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Greenwich vs Staples
The 2024 CIAC Class LL playoff tournament features an exciting neutral-site matchup between the Greenwich Cardinals (9-2) and the Staples Wreckers (10-1) today at 12:30 PM. This game will determine which team advances further in the postseason, with both teams having strong seasons and plenty of momentum heading into this matchup.
Team Overview:
Greenwich Cardinals:
Greenwich enters this playoff game with a 9-2 overall record, having been dominant in league play with a 6-1 mark. Their offensive success has largely been driven by running back Hector Lopez, who averages 99.3 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Michael D’Angelo, who has added 85.5 passing yards per game. The Cardinals are well-rounded offensively, averaging 26.5 points per game. Defensively, Greenwich has been solid, allowing just 121 points all season. Despite this, they will face a tough challenge in Staples, who has been one of the most explosive teams in Connecticut this year.
Staples Wreckers:
Staples, with a 10-1 record, has been a powerhouse this season. The Wreckers have won consistently, finishing 7-1 in league play and remaining undefeated at home with a perfect 6-0 record. Offensively, Staples has averaged 31.5 points per game, with quarterback Nick Weil leading the charge with 179.2 total yards per game. In addition to Weil, wide receiver Shane Sandrew has contributed significantly to the passing game, and running back Patricio Garcia has been a key factor in the ground game. Staples’ defense has also been formidable, allowing only 81 points this season, making them one of the toughest teams to break down.
Head-to-Head:
Staples and Greenwich have already met once this season in a dominant 27-0 win for the Wreckers on November 28. This game showed Staples’ defensive strength and their ability to control the game. Greenwich will look to bounce back and challenge Staples in this highly anticipated rematch.
Key Players to Watch:
- Greenwich:
- Hector Lopez (RB) – Lopez has been a key part of Greenwich’s offense with his 99.3 rushing yards per game. If Greenwich is to have success, Lopez will need to lead the way on the ground.
- Michael D’Angelo (QB) – D’Angelo has been efficient, passing for 85.5 yards per game, and he’ll need to make plays in the air to help keep Staples’ defense honest.
- Staples:
- Nick Weil (QB) – Weil has been stellar, averaging 179.2 total yards per game and playing a pivotal role in Staples’ offensive success.
- Shane Sandrew (WR) – Sandrew has been the top target in Staples’ aerial attack, averaging 93.2 receiving yards per game.
- Patricio Garcia (RB) – Garcia has been a consistent contributor in the running game, providing balance to Staples’ offense.
Team Comparison:
- Offensive Stats:
- Greenwich: 265.5 total yards per game (176.9 rushing, 88.6 passing)
- Staples: 311.9 total yards per game (132.3 rushing, 179.6 passing)
- Staples holds an advantage in both passing and total yards per game, thanks to their balanced attack and explosive playmakers.
- Defensive Stats:
- Greenwich: 50.7 tackles per game, 1.5 sacks per game
- Staples: 57.1 tackles per game, 1.8 sacks per game
- While Greenwich has a solid defense, Staples has been slightly more effective in terms of total tackles and quarterback pressure.
Common Opponents:
Both teams have faced several common opponents this season, and both have performed impressively. Against Stamford, Greenwich won 37-7, and Staples triumphed 27-0. Both teams also earned convincing victories over Danbury, Trumbull, and St. Joseph, showcasing their dominance in the league.
Conclusion:
This Class LL playoff game between Greenwich and Staples promises to be an exciting and competitive matchup. Staples enters as the favorite, having already defeated Greenwich 27-0 earlier in the season and showcasing a high-powered offense and tough defense. However, Greenwich will be looking to regroup and bounce back in this neutral-site contest. With key playmakers on both sides, expect a high-energy game as both teams battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown between these two talented squads.
