The Hills-Beaver Creek varsity football team (Hills, MN) will face Fertile-Beltrami (Fertile, MN) in a neutral-site playoff game on Saturday, November 23, at 10:00 AM. This matchup is part of the “2024 High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSL – 9-Man” tournament.
Hills-Beaver Creek vs Fertile-Beltrami Football Game Info:
What: Minnesota High School Football
Who: Hills-Beaver Creek vs Fertile-Beltrami
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 10 AM
Bracket: 2024 High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSL – 9-Man
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Game preview: Hills-Beaver Creek vs Fertile-Beltrami
The Minnesota high school football season has come down to an electrifying matchup between two undefeated teams, Fertile-Beltrami and Hills-Beaver Creek, each vying for supremacy in their class. Ranked first and second in both the state and national standings for their division, this battle is poised to be one for the ages.
Season at a Glance
Fertile-Beltrami Falcons
- Record: 12-0 (7-0 in conference play)
- Points Scored (PF): 655
- Points Allowed (PA): 161
- Scoring Average: 54.6 points per game
The Falcons have been an offensive juggernaut this season, posting an eye-popping 54.6 points per game while maintaining a stout defense. Fertile-Beltrami’s dominance extends across all environments, going undefeated at home, on the road, and in neutral-site games. Their playoff performance has been equally commanding, underlining their case as the No. 2 team in the state and class.
Hills-Beaver Creek Patriots
- Record: 10-0 (5-0 in conference play)
- Points Scored (PF): 420
- Points Allowed (PA): 92
- Scoring Average: 42.0 points per game
The Patriots, sitting atop the rankings at No. 1, have also maintained a perfect record. While their scoring average is slightly lower than Fertile-Beltrami’s, their defense has been phenomenal, allowing only 92 points all season. Their balanced approach and ability to win in any setting make them a formidable opponent.
Common Opponent Comparison
Both teams faced Wheaton/Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley/Herman-Norcross this season, with Fertile-Beltrami securing a commanding 60-32 victory and Hills-Beaver Creek earning a 34-14 win. While both teams emerged victorious, Fertile-Beltrami’s larger margin of victory suggests a slight edge in offensive firepower.
Strengths to Watch
- Fertile-Beltrami’s Explosive Offense: Averaging over 54 points per game, the Falcons rely on a fast-paced, high-scoring attack that has overwhelmed every opponent this season. Their ability to build early leads puts pressure on opposing defenses to keep up.
- Hills-Beaver Creek’s Defensive Prowess: The Patriots’ defense has been nearly impenetrable, holding opponents to an average of just over 9 points per game. Their ability to neutralize explosive offenses will be tested against the high-octane Falcons.
Key Storylines
- Home vs. Away: Both teams are undefeated across all environments, including home, away, and neutral-site games. The neutral setting for this clash removes any home-field advantage, making preparation and execution critical.
- Perfect Records on the Line: Fertile-Beltrami enters with a 12-0 record, while Hills-Beaver Creek boasts a 10-0 slate. One team’s perfect season will come to an end, raising the stakes for both squads.
- Battle of the Rankings: With Fertile-Beltrami ranked second and Hills-Beaver Creek first in both state and class standings, this game serves as the ultimate decider of supremacy.
Prediction
This matchup promises fireworks, with Fertile-Beltrami’s relentless offense colliding against Hills-Beaver Creek’s staunch defense. While the Falcons’ scoring potential gives them an edge on paper, the Patriots’ disciplined defense and efficient offense provide a balanced counter. Expect a tightly contested battle that could come down to the final possession.
Conclusion
As these two powerhouse teams prepare to face off, fans are eagerly anticipating a game that exemplifies the best of Minnesota high school football. Whether it’s Fertile-Beltrami’s offensive spectacle or Hills-Beaver Creek’s defensive mastery that prevails, one thing is certain: this showdown will be remembered for years to come.
