The Hutchinson (KS) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Hays (KS) on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM.
What: Kansas High School Football
Who: Hutchinson (KS) vs Hays (KS)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
A Clash of the Titans: Hays vs. Hutchinson – A 2024-25 Season Breakdown
As the 2024-25 high school football season progresses, the teams of Hays and Hutchinson in Kansas are making waves in their respective districts and across the state. Both teams have shown resilience and competitive spirit, but with differing records, strengths, and play styles, the matchups between these two are always highly anticipated. Let’s break down the season’s performance, key statistics, and compare these two powerhouse teams.
Team Records & Performance
In the 2024-25 season, Hays has posted a 6-4 overall record, with a 2-2 district performance. The team has had a mixed record at home (1-3), but has excelled on the road with a 4-1 mark. Their win percentage stands at .600 overall and .500 in district play. Despite some setbacks, Hays has managed to put up impressive numbers, scoring an average of 24.2 points per game, with 242 points scored and 161 points allowed.
On the other hand, Hutchinson has had a stellar season with an 8-2 overall record and a 5-1 district record, boasting a win percentage of .800 and a district win percentage of .833. The team has shown dominance, especially at home with a 4-2 record, and their defensive and offensive capabilities have stood out. Hutchinson’s offense has been on fire, averaging 30.9 points per game, with 309 points scored and only 113 points allowed throughout the season.
Offensive & Defensive Breakdown
Looking at the teams’ offensive stats, both teams show a difference in play styles. Hays primarily relies on a strong rushing game, averaging 291.3 rushing yards per game, compared to Hutchinson’s 177.8 rushing yards per game. Despite their lower rushing yards, Hutchinson has displayed a more balanced offensive attack, accumulating 336.6 total yards per game, which includes a solid mix of passing yards (45.3) and rushing yards.
Hays has some standout individual performances, with Kade Smith leading the rushing game with an impressive 180.9 yards per game, while also contributing with 10.8 points per game. Levi Kepler, Hays’ top passer, averages 45.3 passing yards per game. Meanwhile, Hutchinson is not far behind, with Kade Smith of Hays and Taishaun Govain both making notable contributions in their respective positions.
Defensively, Jackson Anderson of Hays leads with 8 tackles per game, showcasing a solid defensive presence. Gavaughn Embers has been a key player for Hays with 0.6 sacks per game, while Hutchinson’s defense also boasts strong statistics with good tackle and sack numbers.
Common Opponents
Both Hays and Hutchinson have faced some of the same opponents throughout the season. Against Derby, both teams suffered tough losses. Hays fell 40-7, while Hutchinson was also defeated 36-3. However, in their matchup against Liberal, Hays lost a tight game 20-19, while Hutchinson won 33-13. These common opponents provide a glimpse into how both teams handle adversity and competition.
Home & Away Performance
When it comes to performance at home versus away, the stats reveal some interesting trends. Hays has been more effective on the road, with a 4-1 away record, compared to their 1-3 performance at home. Hutchinson has been dominant in all settings, showing a 4-1 home record and an impressive 4-0 away performance.
Head-to-Head Showdown
The head-to-head matchup between these two teams will certainly be a spectacle to watch. Historically, the two teams have faced off without a decisive edge for either side, with both schools having similar levels of competition in their district games. Although neither team has faced each other yet this season, the rivalry remains fierce, especially as Hutchinson comes into the game with an undefeated district record.
Looking Ahead
With the season’s remaining games, both Hays and Hutchinson will have their eyes on playoff contention. Hutchinson, with its high-powered offense and rock-solid defense, appears to be the favorite, but Hays is a team that can never be counted out, especially with a standout individual player like Kade Smith.
Fans can expect exciting plays, high-scoring action, and a competitive atmosphere as these two teams continue their journeys in Kansas high school football. The showdown between Hays and Hutchinson will certainly be one to watch as both teams strive for postseason glory.
Conclusion
Hays and Hutchinson may come from different places in terms of overall performance, but the heart and competitive spirit of both teams remain undeniable. Whether it’s Hutchinson’s offensive firepower or Hays’ gritty play, one thing is clear: these two teams will continue to captivate fans throughout the remainder of the season.
