The Highland Park (Dallas, TX) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Wakeland (Frisco, TX) on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM at Plano’s Kimbrough Stadium. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.
Highland Park vs Wakeland Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Highland Park vs Wakeland
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
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Game preview: Highland Park vs Wakeland
As the Texas high school football season continues to build momentum, two teams have emerged as clear contenders with impressive records and statistics: Wakeland and Highland Park. Both teams have shown their strength on the field, and while their overall success is evident, their styles of play and key players make for a fascinating comparison.
Team Records and Performance Overview
Wakeland has had a strong season with an overall record of 8-3, finishing 6-2 in district play. Their record reflects a balanced team that performs well both at home (4-1) and on the road (3-2), with a single neutral-site win. Wakeland’s ability to win in a variety of environments is a testament to their adaptability and strong team chemistry. With an average of 32.5 points per game and a solid defense allowing 289 points across the season, they have proven themselves as a formidable opponent.
On the other hand, Highland Park has been nothing short of dominant. With a remarkable 10-1 record and a perfect 6-0 district record, they remain undefeated in their district. Highland Park’s performance at home (5-1) and on the road (4-0) further solidifies their claim as one of the top teams in Texas. They have a potent offense, averaging 37.4 points per game, and a defense that has been stifling, allowing only 175 points throughout the season.
Offensive and Defensive Strengths
One of the most striking contrasts between these two teams is their offensive approach. Wakeland has excelled in their passing game, averaging 237.6 passing yards per game and 236.0 receiving yards per game. Led by quarterback Jayden Maples, who is responsible for 237.5 passing yards per game, the team boasts a potent aerial attack that has allowed them to spread the field effectively.
Meanwhile, Highland Park has been more balanced, showcasing a solid passing game as well as a powerful rushing attack, with a staggering 147.4 rushing yards per game. Though specific rushing yard statistics for Highland Park are unavailable, they remain a well-rounded team in both passing and rushing categories. The scoring differential of 411 points scored to just 175 points allowed further emphasizes the efficiency and depth of their offense and defense.
Key Players to Watch
For Wakeland, running back Aidan Poole has been a standout, contributing 97.1 rushing yards per game. Poole’s consistent performance has been a crucial part of Wakeland’s offensive success. At wide receiver, Ryder Treadway has contributed 83.9 receiving yards per game, showcasing his ability to make plays down the field.
Highland Park’s offensive leader is Jayden Maples, who not only leads in passing yards but also contributes to their total offensive output with 254.6 yards per game. On defense, Cedric Thornton has been a standout, recording 8.7 tackles per game, providing a solid anchor for the defensive unit. Additionally, Austin Wilson has made an impact with 0.6 sacks per game, showing his ability to pressure the quarterback.
Comparing Scoring and Defense
In terms of scoring, Highland Park edges out Wakeland with an average of 37.4 points per game, compared to Wakeland’s 32.5. However, Wakeland has managed to stay competitive with their balanced offensive approach and efficient play calling. Highland Park’s ability to score across all four quarters, including their strong first-quarter performances (19.0 points), makes them a tough opponent early in the game.
On the defensive side, both teams have shown their ability to limit scoring, but Highland Park has been particularly effective in keeping opponents at bay, allowing just 175 points on the season, which is significantly fewer than Wakeland’s 289 points allowed.
Head-to-Head and Playoff Outlook
As both teams head into the postseason, their records indicate they will be contenders in their respective sections. Wakeland, with an 8-3 record, faces stiff competition in the playoffs but has proven their ability to rise to the occasion. Meanwhile, Highland Park, undefeated in district play and boasting a 10-1 record overall, enters the playoffs as one of the top teams in Texas, poised to make a deep run.
In terms of head-to-head matchups, both teams have had excellent seasons and are likely to meet in the postseason or future inter-district matchups, where their contrasting styles and strengths will be put to the test.
Conclusion
In summary, both Wakeland and Highland Park have established themselves as elite programs in Texas high school football. With explosive offenses, solid defenses, and standout individual players, each team has the tools to make a championship run. Highland Park’s dominance and perfect district record put them as the early favorites, but Wakeland’s balanced attack and resilient performance make them a dangerous opponent in the playoffs. Fans of Texas high school football can look forward to some thrilling games ahead as these two teams continue to make their mark on the season.
