The Hill City (KS) varsity football team will host a playoff game against South Central (Coldwater, KS) on Friday, November 15, at 6 p.m.

What: Kansas High School Football
Who: Hill City (KS) vs South Central (KS)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

South Central vs. Hill City: A Comparative Overview

As the 2024-25 football season heats up, two teams stand out in the rankings: South Central and Hill City. With notable differences in their overall records, performance statistics, and individual player contributions, each team has shown unique strengths and areas for growth. Here’s a detailed comparison between the two teams based on their current stats, performance in their respective leagues, and head-to-head matchups.

Team Records and Standings

• South Central is undefeated with a perfect 10-0 record, dominating both their district (3-0) and home games (6-0). Their remarkable 100% win rate reflects their consistent performance throughout the season, outscoring opponents 616-112.
• Hill City, with a record of 7-3, has faced a mix of challenges. They have performed solidly in their district (4-2) and have a good away record (5-1), although their overall performance still shows room for improvement. They’ve accumulated 460 points while allowing 270.

Scoring Averages and Offensive Strengths

• South Central boasts an average of 61.6 points per game, significantly higher than Hill City’s 46.0 points per game. This offensive output is spread evenly across the first three quarters, with an explosive 24.3 points in the first quarter and 24.6 in the second, followed by a slower-paced third and fourth quarter.
• Hill City, on the other hand, starts slower, with an average of only 6.0 points in the first quarter. However, they make up ground by averaging 14.7 points in the second quarter and a solid 10.0 points in the fourth, showcasing their ability to finish strong.

Key Team Statistics

• Rushing Yards: Both teams are strong on the ground, with South Central averaging 217.3 rushing yards per game and Hill City not far behind at 213.7 yards. This speaks to the importance of a powerful running game for both squads.
• Passing Yards: Hill City leads in passing, averaging 138.9 yards per game compared to South Central’s 85.5. While South Central leans more on their running game, Hill City is more balanced and may rely on their passing attack to open up opportunities.
• Total Yards: Hill City averages 352.6 total yards per game, surpassing South Central’s 302.8. This can be attributed to their higher passing yardage, which compensates for their relatively lower rushing totals.
• Tackles and Defense: In terms of defense, Hill City has the edge in tackles, averaging 61.4 tackles per game compared to South Central’s 50.1. However, South Central has been better at limiting points, allowing just 112 compared to Hill City’s 270.

Team Leaders

• South Central’s standout player is JT Prusa, who leads the team in rushing yards (95.4 per game), receiving yards (36.8), and total yards (133.1). He also contributes to the scoring, averaging 22.6 points per game. Prusa is the focal point of the offense, setting the tone both on the ground and in the air.
• Hill City’s leader is Dayton Stephen, who excels with 111.3 rushing yards per game and 70.7 receiving yards. He also averages 21.6 points per game, keeping the Hill City offense dynamic.

Head-to-Head Performance and Common Opponents

The teams met a few times this season against common opponents:

• South Central triumphed over Rawlins County 24-6 in a dominant victory on November 8, 2024.
• Hill City faced Rawlins County earlier in the season on September 27, 2024, but suffered a tough 48-28 loss. This result highlights a potential area of difference between the teams, with South Central emerging victorious in their only common matchup against Rawlins County.

Record Breakdown

• South Central boasts a perfect 10-0 overall record, with a 6-0 home record and 4-0 away record. They also excel in playoff games, going 2-0. Their dominance is reflected in their consistent performance in both league and non-league play.
• Hill City, with a 7-3 overall record, shows more balance between home and away games. They have a solid away record (5-1), although their home record is 2-2. Their playoff performance stands at 2-0, similar to South Central.

Conclusion

While both teams have impressive individual and team statistics, South Central stands out with an undefeated record and remarkable offensive production, especially in the first half of games. Their dominance in rushing yards and points per game shows they are a well-rounded and explosive team. Hill City, while not as dominant, remains a strong competitor, especially with their balance between rushing and passing. The matchups and performance trends suggest that South Central enters any game as a strong favorite, but Hill City should not be underestimated, particularly in tight contests where they’ve shown they can close games effectively.

As the season progresses, both teams will look to sharpen their skills and solidify their positions for the playoffs, with South Central seeking to maintain its perfect record and Hill City aiming for a deep playoff run.