The Hickory (Hermitage, PA) varsity football team will host a playoff game against Penn Cambria (Cresson, PA) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 3A tournament.

Hickory vs Penn Cambria Football Game Info:

What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Hickory vs Penn Cambria
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 3A
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Game preview: Hickory vs Penn Cambria

As the 2024 PIAA 4A Football Championship approaches, the matchup between Penn Cambria and Hickory promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with incredible seasons behind them. Both teams have demonstrated dominance throughout the year, but with contrasting styles and strengths, this game is set to showcase the best of high school football.

Penn Cambria: The Undefeated Juggernaut

Penn Cambria enters the championship with a perfect 13-0 record, having dominated their competition all season. Their consistency across both their conference and non-conference matchups is reflected in their flawless 10-0 conference record, complemented by an 8-0 home and 5-0 away record. This team’s ability to perform under pressure has been evident, with a remarkable 450 points scored and only 129 points allowed.

On the field, Penn Cambria has averaged a strong 34.6 points per game. They rely heavily on their balanced offense, with 241.5 rushing yards and 122.9 passing yards per game. Running back Thomas Plunkett has been a standout player, averaging 79.3 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Brady Jones has contributed 119.5 passing yards per game. The team’s well-rounded attack makes them a tough opponent on both sides of the ball. Defensively, Penn Cambria is strong as well, with 67.5 tackles per game, providing solid coverage to complement their offensive firepower.

Hickory: The High-Flying Offense

Hickory enters this matchup with an impressive 11-1 record. Their only loss came in a conference game, but since then, they’ve demonstrated their resiliency and depth, especially with a perfect 5-0 away record. The team has been unstoppable at home as well, with a 3-1 record, and they are 2-0 in the playoffs, further solidifying their championship aspirations.

Hickory has been an offensive powerhouse, averaging a high 40.8 points per game. Their offensive scheme is predicated on a high-scoring, fast-paced attack, with 217.4 rushing yards and 139.3 passing yards per game. The team’s key player is running back Kelvin Morrison, who has averaged 120.6 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Zander Telesz has been a significant contributor in the air, averaging 138.9 passing yards per game. On defense, Hickory averages 56 tackles per game, and their players like Trevor Borowicz have been instrumental in stopping opposing offenses.

Key Matchups: Offense vs. Defense

Both teams bring elite playmakers to the table, and their individual performances will likely determine the outcome of this highly anticipated championship game. Penn Cambria’s defense has allowed only 129 points all season, and their ability to shut down opponents’ offenses could give them an edge over Hickory’s high-octane attack.

On the other hand, Hickory’s ability to score quickly and put pressure on opponents could disrupt Penn Cambria’s rhythm. With a potent offense that excels in both the running and passing game, Hickory has the tools to outscore any team, including Penn Cambria.

The individual battles will also be key. For Penn Cambria, Brady Jones will need to find a way to move the ball through the air, while Plunkett will be counted on to grind out crucial yards on the ground. For Hickory, Morrison’s bruising runs and Telesz’s accurate passing will be central to their success, and the defensive front, led by Borowicz, will need to neutralize Penn Cambria’s offensive threats.

The Big Picture: Championship Glory on the Line

In the grand scheme of things, both teams are already winners, having earned their places in the championship with remarkable seasons. Penn Cambria has been a perfect team all year, and Hickory’s high-scoring offense has made them one of the most feared teams in the state. But only one will emerge victorious.

This matchup is more than just a contest of undefeated versus one-loss teams; it’s a battle of contrasting football philosophies. Penn Cambria’s disciplined, balanced attack faces off against Hickory’s explosive offense, with both defenses aiming to impose their will on the other.

As the clock ticks down to game day, one thing is certain: the 2024 PIAA 4A Football Championship will be one for the history books.