The Hough (Cornelius, NC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Independence (Charlotte, NC) on Friday, November 22 at 7 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: North Carolina High School Football
Who: Independence vs Hough
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Independence vs. Hough
On Friday, November 22, Independence (10-1) will face off against Hough (10-1) in a highly anticipated playoff matchup. Both teams have had outstanding seasons, featuring high-powered offenses and stout defenses. This game will likely come down to execution in key moments and defensive resilience.
Season Recap: Independence
- Record: 10-1
- Conference: 5-1
- Points For/Against: 466 PF, 133 PA
- Scoring Average: 42.4 points per game
Independence is powered by a dynamic offense that thrives on balance, averaging 478.9 total yards per game, with a strong focus on the ground game (290.0 rushing yards per game). Their defense, highlighted by 82 tackles per game, has been instrumental in limiting opponents to 133 points this season.
Key Players:
- Jayden Jones (#2): A dual-threat workhorse with 194.6 rushing yards per game, 213.4 total yards per game, and 16.7 points per game.
- Justin Little (#7): Quarterback with 176.8 passing yards per game, managing the offense efficiently.
- Dallas Brannon (#4): Defensive anchor averaging 13.1 tackles per game, leading the team’s physical defense.
Season Recap: Hough
- Record: 10-1
- Conference: 7-0
- Points For/Against: 533 PF, 82 PA
- Scoring Average: 48.5 points per game
Hough enters the playoffs as a well-rounded team with an elite defense, allowing just 82 points all season (7.5 per game), and an offense that scores nearly 50 points per game. Their balanced attack includes 230.8 passing yards per game, making them tough to defend.
Key Players:
- Ralph (Trey) Blakeney (#4): Quarterback with 199.5 passing yards per game, leading an efficient and explosive passing game.
- Tyran Evans (#8): A versatile receiver averaging 75.3 receiving yards per game and a reliable target for big plays.
- Cameron Cyr (#16): Defensive standout with 1.3 sacks per game, spearheading the team’s pass rush.
Team Stat Comparison
| Category | Independence | Hough |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Average | 42.4 | 48.5 |
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 290.0 | 130.7 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 188.9 | 230.8 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 478.9 | 361.5 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 12.1 | 7.5 |
| Sacks Per Game | 2.9 | 4.5 |
Record Breakdown
| Category | Independence | Hough |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 10-1 | 10-1 |
| Conference Record | 5-1 | 7-0 |
| Non-Conference Record | 4-0 | 2-1 |
| Points For | 466 | 533 |
| Points Against | 133 | 82 |
| Home Record | 2-1 | 5-1 |
| Away Record | 8-0 | 5-0 |
Key Matchups
- Independence Rushing Offense vs. Hough Defense
- Independence leans heavily on their rushing attack, led by Jayden Jones. However, they face a Hough defense that excels in stopping the run and generating pressure with 4.5 sacks per game.
- Hough Passing Attack vs. Independence Secondary
- With Ralph (Trey) Blakeney orchestrating the offense and targeting Tyran Evans, Hough’s passing game will challenge Independence’s defense, especially on big plays.
- Defensive Standouts
- Independence averages 82 tackles per game, which highlights their physicality. Hough’s defensive playmakers, such as Cameron Cyr, will need to disrupt Independence’s rhythm.
- Special Teams and Turnovers
- Playoff games often hinge on special teams and turnovers. Both teams must capitalize on mistakes and protect the ball.
Prediction
This matchup is between two evenly matched powerhouses, but Hough’s superior defense and balanced offensive attack could give them the edge. Independence will need a standout performance from Jayden Jones and their defense to pull off the win.
