The Middletown (DE) varsity football team will host Hodgson Vo-Tech (Newark, DE) today at 7 p.m. for a home playoff game. This matchup is part of the 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoff Brackets: DIAA – 3A tournament.
Hodgson Vo-Tech vs Middletown High School Football Game Info:
What: Delaware High School Football
Who: Hodgson Vo-Tech vs Middletown
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 3:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoff Brackets: DIAA – 3A
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Hodgson Vo-Tech vs Middletown
The Hodgson Vo-Tech (Newark, DE) varsity football team will travel to Middletown (DE) for a crucial playoff game today at 7 p.m. in the 2024 Delaware High School Football Playoffs: DIAA – 3A tournament. This matchup will be the second meeting between these two teams this season, with Middletown emerging victorious in their previous encounter.
Team Records and Rankings
Hodgson Vo-Tech enters the playoffs with a 5-5 overall record, including a 3-2 mark in league play. Despite a .500 season, the Silver Eagles have shown resilience, especially on the road, where they’ve gone 2-3. With a strong mix of offensive talent and a gritty defense, Hodgson Vo-Tech will be looking to bounce back after a tough regular season and make a playoff run.
In contrast, Middletown has had a strong season, posting an 8-2 overall record and a 4-1 record in league play. The Cavaliers have been dominant at home, finishing 5-1 on their home turf. Their only losses came in close contests, including a tough game against Salesianum. Middletown’s high-powered offense, averaging nearly 30 points per game, has been a key factor in their successful campaign.
Previous Matchup
The most recent meeting between these two teams took place on October 11, 2024, when Middletown hosted Hodgson Vo-Tech. The Cavaliers dominated the game, winning 42-20 in a decisive victory. This result will likely provide Middletown with a boost of confidence heading into today’s playoff matchup, but Hodgson Vo-Tech will be eager to show that they can compete at a higher level when it counts the most.
Statistical Breakdown
- Offensive Comparison:
Hodgson Vo-Tech’s offense has been led by quarterback Xavier Brown, who has posted strong numbers this season with 200.4 passing yards per game. The Silver Eagles’ offense has averaged 285.3 total yards per game, including 96.3 yards per game on the ground. Running back Jace Hawkins has been a key contributor in the running game, rushing for 48.9 yards per game.On the other side, Middletown’s offense has been a well-rounded machine, averaging 299 total yards per game. The Cavaliers are known for their dynamic offense, and though their stats are not broken down into rushing or passing yards, their ability to score efficiently throughout the game has been a trademark of their success. Middletown has consistently put up high numbers, with 29.9 points per game, led by a potent rushing attack and timely passing. - Defensive Comparison:
Hodgson Vo-Tech has averaged 49.2 tackles per game, with Nybree Davis leading the team with 7.7 tackles per game. The Silver Eagles have also shown some ability to apply pressure, with 2.5 sacks per game. However, their defense will be tested by Middletown’s explosive offense.Middletown has been solid on the defensive side of the ball as well, averaging 73.7 tackles per game. The Cavaliers have been tough to break down, with a physical defense that can make plays behind the line of scrimmage. They will need to control Hodgson Vo-Tech’s passing game, especially Brown, if they are to advance in the playoffs.
Key Players to Watch
- Hodgson Vo-Tech:
- Jace Hawkins: The running back will need to have a big game on the ground to keep Middletown’s offense off the field.
- Xavier Brown: The quarterback will be critical in leading the passing attack and making plays when the running game isn’t enough.
- Middletown:
- Emory Harris: The Cavaliers’ defense, led by Harris, will need to be disruptive and force turnovers to prevent Hodgson Vo-Tech from staying in the game.
- Nybree Davis: The linebacker will be tasked with slowing down Hodgson Vo-Tech’s offensive playmakers, especially Brown and Hawkins.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced off against some of the same opponents during the season. Both Middletown and Hodgson Vo-Tech earned victories over St. Mark’s and William Penn, but both also suffered losses to Salesianum. This common opponent result shows that both teams have had their struggles but have also proven their ability to compete at a high level.
Playoff Implications
This game carries significant weight for both teams, as the winner will continue their journey in the 2024 DIAA 3A playoffs. With Middletown’s impressive regular season and Hodgson Vo-Tech looking to rebound after their loss earlier in the season, fans can expect an intense and hard-fought game.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Middletown High School. This is sure to be a thrilling playoff matchup, with both teams eager to prove their worth in the 2024 DIAA 3A tournament.