The Grimsley varsity football team from Greensboro, NC, will host a playoff game against Hough High School from Cornelius, NC, on Friday, December 6, at 7:30 AM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: North Carolina High School Football
Who: Hough vs Grimsley
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 AM ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Hough vs. Grimsley

The Hough Huskies (12-1) will face off against the undefeated Grimsley Whirlies (13-0) in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Both teams are dominant forces in their respective conferences, and this game will be a crucial test for both sides.

Season Recap: Hough Huskies

• Record: 12-1
• Conference Record: 7-0
• Points For/Against: 607 PF, 85 PA
• Scoring Average: 46.7 points per game

Hough has been a formidable team this season, with a dominant 12-1 record. They have scored heavily, averaging 46.7 points per game, and have been exceptional in all phases of the game. Their defense has been especially impressive, allowing just 85 points on the season. The Huskies have a balanced offensive attack, with strong performances in both the running and passing game.

Season Recap: Grimsley Whirlies

• Record: 13-0
• Conference Record: 7-0
• Points For/Against: 634 PF, 116 PA
• Scoring Average: 48.6 points per game

Grimsley enters this matchup undefeated with a 13-0 record. Their offense has been even more potent than Hough’s, averaging 48.6 points per game. They have an impressive rushing attack and solid passing game, making them a well-rounded and dangerous team. Their defense, while not as dominant as Hough’s, has allowed just 116 points, proving their ability to shut down opponents when needed.

Key Matchups

1. Offensive Balance:
   • Hough has a strong rushing attack, averaging 144.0 rushing yards per game, while also excelling in the passing game with 225.4 passing yards per game.
   • Grimsley leads with 248.3 rushing yards per game, but they also have a solid passing game with 178.5 passing yards per game. Grimsley’s balanced attack could give Hough’s defense a challenge.
2. Quarterback Play:
   • Hough’s QB, Ralph (Trey) Blakeney, has been outstanding, passing for 196.1 yards per game and amassing 218.0 total yards per game.
   • Grimsley’s QB, Faizon Brandon, has been just as effective, throwing for 173.5 yards per game and contributing 216.9 total yards per game. Both quarterbacks are key to their team’s success.
3. Defense Comparison:
   • Hough’s defense has been stingy all season, allowing an average of only 85 points across 13 games. Their defense is led by standout linebacker Ayden Bell, who averages 7.2 tackles per game.
   • Grimsley’s defense has also been solid, allowing 116 points on the season. They have a key player in Bryce Davis, who averages 7.8 tackles per game.

Scoring Trends

• Hough has been strong throughout the game, especially in the first half, where they average 15.8 points in the first quarter and 12.3 points in the second. Their offense slows slightly in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter, with just 6.3 points per game.
• Grimsley, on the other hand, has been explosive early on, scoring 21.0 points in the first quarter and 16.0 points in the second. While their offense slows a little in the second half (10.3 points in the third and 6.9 in the fourth), they have the ability to dominate early and finish strong.

Common Opponents:

Both teams have faced tough competition in their conferences, but they have not played any common opponents this season. Their records and scoring averages suggest they have each dominated their respective leagues and non-league matchups.

Prediction:

Grimsley’s undefeated record and high-scoring offense make them the favorites in this matchup. However, Hough’s strong defense and explosive offense will provide them with a significant challenge. The game is expected to be close, but Grimsley’s offensive firepower may prove to be the difference.