The Republic varsity football team from Republic, MO, will play against Helias from Jefferson City, MO, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: Helias vs Republic
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: in progress
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 5
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Helias vs. Republic
The upcoming playoff matchup between Helias (10-1) and Republic (10-2) is set to be an intense contest, with both teams having shown excellent form throughout the season. Helias enters the game with a strong 10-1 record, while Republic, with a 10-2 mark, will be looking to continue their impressive run. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from each team.
Season Recap: Helias
- Record: 10-1
- Points For/Against: 450 PF, 146 PA
- Scoring Average: 40.9 points per game
Helias has had a remarkable season, showcasing a potent offense that averages 40.9 points per game. They have a strong defense, allowing only 146 points throughout the year. Their overall balance has been key, winning consistently across all areas of the game. They have only one loss, making them one of the top contenders in the state.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Helias’ offense is potent, with balanced scoring throughout all quarters. They have been especially strong in the second quarter, where they average 18.2 points.
- Defense: Their defense has been rock-solid, allowing just 146 points for the season. They will need to contain Republic’s high-scoring attack to maintain their dominance.
Season Recap: Republic
- Record: 10-2
- Points For/Against: 435 PF, 208 PA
- Scoring Average: 36.3 points per game
Republic has had an impressive season, with a high-scoring offense averaging 36.3 points per game. While their defense has allowed more points (208), they’ve managed to stay competitive with their offensive firepower. They will need to outscore Helias in this playoff matchup to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Republic has been productive, especially in the second half, where they score an average of 13.7 points in the fourth quarter. They will need to maintain this strong finish against a tough Helias defense.
- Defense: Republic’s defense has allowed a bit more scoring than they would like, but their offense has kept them in games.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Helias | Republic |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 330.6 | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 53.9 | 42.3 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 37.3 | 42.0 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 372.9 | 372.9 |
| Points Per Game | 40.9 | 36.3 |
Record Breakdown
| Category | Helias | Republic |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 10-1 | 10-2 |
| League Record | 6-1 | 6-2 |
| Non-League Record | 2-1 | 1-0 |
| Playoff Record | 3-0 | 2-0 |
Key Players to Watch
- Helias:
- Preston McCracken: Leading the team in rushing, passing, and total yards, McCracken will be a key figure for Helias. He averages 14.3 points per game and has the ability to make plays with his legs and arm.
- Kaleb Norman: As one of the team’s top tacklers, Norman will play a crucial role in slowing down Republic’s offense.
- Republic:
- Cameron Allen: As one of the team’s leaders in tackles and sacks, Allen will be key in containing Helias’ potent offensive attack.
- Trey Williams: The quarterback for Republic has shown strong leadership and will need to perform well under pressure.
Keys to Victory
For Helias:
- Explosive Offense: Helias has been one of the highest-scoring teams this season. They need to maintain their scoring pace, especially in the second quarter where they’ve excelled.
- Control the Run Game: With 330.6 rushing yards per game, Helias needs to control the line of scrimmage and dominate time of possession.
- Solid Defense: Limiting Republic’s scoring opportunities will be crucial. Helias needs to contain their high-scoring offense and minimize big plays.
For Republic:
- Offensive Firepower: Republic’s offense will need to stay hot, especially in the second half, where they’ve been at their most effective.
- Defensive Adjustments: Republic must find ways to slow down McCracken and the Helias ground game while also limiting passing yardage.
- Finish Strong: Republic has shown a knack for strong finishes. They will need to carry this momentum into the final quarter to stay competitive.
Prediction:
Both teams have the talent to make a deep playoff run, but Helias‘ all-around strength and high-scoring offense give them the edge in this matchup. Republic will challenge them, but Helias’ defense and balanced offense will likely prove too much to overcome.
