The Health Sciences Charter varsity football team from Buffalo, NY, faces off against Eastridge from Rochester, NY, in a neutral-site playoff game today at 4 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 NYSPHSAA Football Championships – Class B” tournament.

Health Sciences Charter vs Eastridge Football Game Info:

What: New York High School Football
Who: Health Sciences Charter vs Eastridge
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 4 PM
Bracket: 2024 NYSPHSAA Football Championships – Class B
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Game preview: Health Sciences Charter vs Eastridge

As Eastridge prepares to take on Health Sciences Charter, the data paints a compelling picture of one team with experience and another that remains a mystery. Let’s dive into the numbers and evaluate what we can expect.

Team Profiles

Eastridge (6-4)
Eastridge enters the matchup with a respectable 6-4 record, highlighted by a strong performance in league play (5-2) and a winning record at home (3-1). Their overall performance showcases consistency, with a .600 winning percentage and a team that averages 21.2 points per game.

The team’s offensive production is led by dual-threat players like quarterback Benny Calixto, who averages 151.4 passing yards per game, and running back Briyceton Thomas, who adds 84.9 rushing yards per game. With 307.3 total yards per game, Eastridge’s offense has proven to be balanced and effective.

Defensively, the team is anchored by linebacker Ian Schneeberger, who averages nearly 10 tackles per game and contributes 0.8 sacks per game. This defensive grit has been crucial in helping the Lancers stay competitive, holding opponents to 171 points across 10 games.

Health Sciences Charter (0-0)
Health Sciences Charter remains an enigma, entering the matchup without any recorded games this season. While this leaves their performance metrics blank, it also makes them unpredictable. Their lack of game experience could either hinder their readiness or allow them to surprise an opponent that may underestimate them.

Statistical Edge

Eastridge holds a clear advantage in nearly every measurable category. They average over 300 total yards per game, with strong contributions in both the passing and rushing games. Health Sciences Charter’s lack of data suggests they are either a new program or have faced logistical challenges this season.

On defense, Eastridge’s ability to create tackles (54.9 per game) and pressure the quarterback (1.7 sacks per game) will be critical. The leadership of Schneeberger and the physical presence of linemen like James Dietz (4 pancake blocks) could dominate the trenches against a team without prior game experience.

Scoring Patterns

Eastridge has been methodical in their scoring, particularly in the second half. They average 3.3 points in the third quarter and 3.5 in the fourth, suggesting they adjust well after halftime. Their special teams or late-game scoring surge with 7.0 overtime points per game demonstrates resilience in tight situations.

Prediction and Keys to the Game

For Eastridge, staying disciplined and avoiding complacency will be key. With no tape to study on Health Sciences Charter, the Lancers will need to focus on executing their game plan and minimizing turnovers.

Health Sciences Charter, meanwhile, will need to lean on unpredictability and capitalize on any opportunities provided by Eastridge mistakes. If they can surprise early, they might have a chance to unsettle the experienced Lancers.

Prediction:
Eastridge’s balanced attack and defensive prowess give them a decisive edge. Expect the Lancers to control the game from start to finish, securing a comfortable victory unless Health Sciences Charter can pull off an unexpected breakout.

Final Score Prediction: Eastridge 28, Health Sciences Charter 7

This matchup may be a stepping stone for Eastridge as they continue their campaign, while Health Sciences Charter has the opportunity to use this as a learning experience to build their program.