The Marana (Tucson, AZ) varsity football team will host Hamilton (Chandler, AZ) in a home playoff game today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Open Division” tournament. Both teams are eager to secure a win and advance further in the postseason.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Arizona High School Football Playoff
Who: Hamilton vs Marana
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Open Division
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Marana vs. Hamilton
In the 2024 AIA State Football Championships – Open Division, the undefeated Marana (Tucson, AZ) varsity football team will host Hamilton (Chandler, AZ) in a highly anticipated playoff game today at 7 p.m. This game promises to be a clash of two top-tier teams, both with impressive records and high expectations heading into the postseason.
Hamilton: A Strong Contender with a Balanced Attack
Hamilton enters the game with a 9-1 record, having finished 3-1 in their section. Their offense has been solid, averaging 37.1 points per game. They’ve been particularly effective in the second quarter, scoring an average of 10.2 points. On defense, Hamilton has allowed just 194 points, showing they can be tough against high-powered offenses. The Huskies will need to capitalize on their efficient scoring and rely on their defense to slow down Marana’s explosive attack.
Marana: The Undefeated Team to Beat
Marana has been dominant all season long, entering this playoff game with a perfect 10-0 record. The Tigers finished 5-0 in section play and have been outstanding on both sides of the ball. Averaging 43.9 points per game, Marana has a balanced offensive attack with their highest scoring quarters in the second (13.4 points) and fourth (12.0 points). Their defense has also been stellar, allowing just 129 points throughout the season, making them one of the most formidable teams in the state.
The Key Matchup: Marana’s Offense vs. Hamilton’s Defense
The game will likely be decided by how well Hamilton can contain Marana’s high-scoring offense. Marana’s ability to consistently put up points, particularly in the second and fourth quarters, will put pressure on Hamilton’s defense. However, Hamilton’s balanced offense and strong defense could prove to be a serious challenge for Marana’s perfect record.
What’s at Stake
Both teams are looking to secure a spot in the next round of the Open Division playoffs. For Marana, continuing their undefeated run is the goal, while Hamilton will look to upset the top seed and advance further in the tournament.
As the Arizona high school football season heats up, the upcoming matchup between Hamilton and Marana promises to be a thrilling contest. With both teams showcasing high-powered offenses and impressive records, fans can expect an exciting game that will have playoff implications. Hamilton enters the game with a 9-1 overall record, while Marana remains undefeated at 10-0. Let’s dive into a breakdown of both teams’ strengths, key players, and what to expect from this highly anticipated clash.
Team Stats Comparison
Offensive Performance:
- Rushing Yards Per Game: Hamilton leads in rushing with an average of 156.9 yards per game, while Marana averages 123.7 yards on the ground.
- Passing Yards Per Game: Marana has the advantage in the passing game, averaging 337.7 yards per game, compared to Hamilton’s 271.4.
- Receiving Yards Per Game: Marana also leads in receiving yards, averaging 337.5 yards per game, while Hamilton’s receivers rack up 275.2 yards.
- Total Yards Per Game: Marana edges out Hamilton in total yards, averaging 461.4 yards per game, compared to Hamilton’s 428.3.
Defensive Performance:
- Tackles Per Game: Hamilton’s defense has been solid, averaging 83.9 tackles per game, compared to Marana’s 56.7.
- Sacks Per Game: Marana has been slightly more effective at pressuring the quarterback, averaging 3.2 sacks per game, while Hamilton records 2.9.
- Points Per Game: Marana has the edge in scoring, averaging 44.5 points per game, while Hamilton averages 36.7.
Key Player Comparisons
Hamilton’s Key Players:
- Jacob Brown (#22) is Hamilton’s leading rusher, averaging 69.8 yards per game.
- Rich Lucero Jr. (#15) is the driving force behind Hamilton’s passing attack, throwing for 255.1 yards per game and accumulating 284.5 total yards per game.
- Roye Oliver III (#10) is Hamilton’s top receiver, with 75.4 yards per game.
- Beau Jandreau (#7) has been a standout defender, contributing 13.5 tackles per game.
- Ben Jones (#8) is Hamilton’s primary pass rusher, with 1.0 sack per game.
Marana’s Key Players:
- Jeffrey Smith 3rd (#33) is Marana’s leading rusher, averaging 63.2 yards per game.
- Colten Meyer (#16) has been phenomenal in the passing game, averaging 333.0 total yards per game and throwing for 330.3 yards per game.
- Dezmen Roebuck (#1) is Marana’s top target, racking up 100.2 receiving yards per game.
- Hayden Utley (#55) contributes significantly to Marana’s defense, averaging 7.3 tackles per game.
- Tyler Evans (#78) is a key factor in Marana’s offensive line, with 10 pancake blocks.
Record Breakdown
Hamilton: With a strong 9-1 overall record, Hamilton has proven itself to be a formidable team this season. The team has been solid in both league and non-league play, with a 3-1 record in league games and a 6-0 record in non-league games. Hamilton is also 5-0 at home and 4-1 on the road.
Marana: Marana enters the game with a perfect 10-0 record, having dominated both league and non-league competition. The team has been flawless in the league, with a 5-0 record, and has also posted a 5-0 mark in non-league games. Marana’s performance at home (5-0) and away (5-0) has been stellar, making them one of the most consistent teams this season.
In-State and Out-of-State Records
- Hamilton: Hamilton has posted a 9-1 record in-state and has not played any out-of-state games.
- Marana: Marana has gone 10-0 in-state and has also not played any out-of-state games.
Head-to-Head and Common Opponents
While Hamilton and Marana have not faced each other this season, both teams have shown their ability to compete against top-tier opponents. Marana’s high-powered offense will look to challenge Hamilton’s defense, while Hamilton’s balanced attack will test Marana’s defensive unit. Both teams are coming off strong performances against tough competition, and their ability to execute in high-pressure situations will likely be a key factor in determining the winner.
Conclusion
This matchup between Hamilton and Marana promises to be one of the most exciting games of the season. Marana’s explosive passing game, led by Colten Meyer and Dezmen Roebuck, will be a formidable challenge for Hamilton’s defense. On the other hand, Hamilton’s balanced offensive attack, featuring Rich Lucero Jr. and Roye Oliver III, will look to control the tempo and keep Marana’s defense on its heels.
With both teams averaging over 400 total yards per game and capable of putting up big points, fans can expect a high-scoring, thrilling game. The outcome may come down to which defense can step up and make key stops, especially in critical moments. For Hamilton, their defensive strength and solid rushing game will be vital in keeping Marana’s offense in check, while Marana will aim to keep the pressure on with their explosive playmakers.
This game is sure to be a must-watch as both teams look to make a statement and position themselves for the upcoming playoffs. With so much talent on display, this matchup will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the Arizona high school football season.
