The Cardinal Gibbons (Raleigh, NC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Hoggard (Wilmington, NC) on Friday, December 6, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: North Carolina High School Football
Who: Hoggard vs. Cardinal Gibbons
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Hoggard vs. Cardinal Gibbons

This exciting matchup features Hoggard (12-1) against Cardinal Gibbons (11-1), both of which have had strong seasons, with impressive performances throughout the year. Both teams are looking to extend their playoff runs, with solid records and high-scoring offenses. The game will be a crucial battle as both teams aim to secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs.

Season Recap: Hoggard Vikings

• Record: 12-1
• Conference Record: 7-0
• Points For/Against: 490 PF, 194 PA
• Scoring Average: 37.7 points per game

Hoggard has been a dominant team this season, with a well-balanced offense. The passing attack has been their main weapon, led by Matthew Boring (210.5 passing yards per game). They have a strong rushing attack with Isaiah Newkirk (52.0 rushing yards per game), and Aniziyon Session leads the receiving corps. The defense is solid, averaging 46.2 tackles per game and 2.2 sacks per game.

Season Recap: Cardinal Gibbons Crusaders

• Record: 11-1
• Conference Record: 5-0
• Points For/Against: 504 PF, 128 PA
• Scoring Average: 41.5 points per game

Cardinal Gibbons has been one of the most explosive teams in the state, averaging 41.5 points per game. Their offense is led by Gannon Jones, who has 240.6 total yards per game. Sam Dodd and Kendall Scotton provide additional support in the running and receiving game. The defense is strong, with Braylon Peebles and Griffin Cockerham leading the charge with 54.4 tackles and 1.4 sacks per game.

Key Matchups

1. Offensive Strengths:
   • Hoggard’s offense is versatile, with a solid mix of passing and running. Matthew Boring has been excellent through the air, and the combination of Isaiah Newkirk and Aniziyon Session provides a potent ground and receiving game. They will need to find balance and consistency to keep up with Cardinal Gibbons’ high-scoring offense.
   • Cardinal Gibbons relies on their quarterback Gannon Jones, who leads a high-octane offense. They also have an efficient rushing game led by Kendall Scotton and have an explosive receiving corps. Cardinal Gibbons has proven they can score quickly, and Hoggard’s defense will need to keep them in check.
2. Defensive Comparisons:
   • Hoggard’s defense is solid with 46.2 tackles per game and 2.2 sacks per game. They will need to focus on limiting Gannon Jones and Sam Dodd, keeping pressure on the quarterback and preventing the big play.
   • Cardinal Gibbons’ defense is led by Braylon Peebles and Griffin Cockerham, with 54.4 tackles per game and 1.4 sacks per game. They will have to contain Matthew Boring and keep Isaiah Newkirk from gaining momentum on the ground.

Scoring Trends

• Hoggard scores 11.2 points in the first quarter, ramps up to 12.4 in the second, then slows a bit with 7.7 in the third and 6.9 in the fourth.
• Cardinal Gibbons starts fast with 13.7 points in the first quarter, scores 15.7 in the second, then drops to 5.3 in the third and 7.5 in the fourth.

Common Opponents:

• Both teams have faced Broughton and Leesville Road this season, with each team winning decisively:
  • Hoggard beat Broughton 35-13 and Leesville Road 14-7.
  • Cardinal Gibbons defeated Broughton 56-0 and Leesville Road 25-7.

Prediction:

While both teams have high-powered offenses, Cardinal Gibbons’ offensive firepower and Hoggard’s balanced attack will make for an exciting game. Cardinal Gibbons has been more explosive overall, but Hoggard’s well-rounded approach and home-field advantage might keep them competitive.