The undefeated Indian Valley Braves (12-0) from Gnadenhutten, OH, will host the New Lexington Panthers (11-1) for a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets for Region 15.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Ohio High School Football
Who: Indian Valley vs New Lexington
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio) – Region 15
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Game preview: Indian Valley vs New Lexington

As the high school football season reaches its climax, two powerhouse teams—New Lexington and Indian Valley—are standing tall with impressive records and championship aspirations. Both teams are having stellar seasons, but with contrasting playing styles, they’re gearing up for a thrilling showdown in the postseason.

New Lexington (24-25) has been dominant with an overall record of 11-1. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 41.3 points per game, with standout performances across the board. The Panthers have excelled both at home (5-1) and on the road (5-0), maintaining a perfect 1.000 record in the conference (5-0). Their offense has been balanced, racking up 496 points on the season while conceding 221 points. Key players like Carson Kellogg, with 109.9 rushing yards per game, and Isaiah Stephens, who averages 231.7 passing yards per game, have been pivotal in New Lexington’s success.

Indian Valley (24-25), meanwhile, has been flawless, posting a perfect 12-0 record. Their high-powered offense has been averaging 45.8 points per game, with an even more impressive defense, which has allowed just 216 points across the season. The Braves have been untouchable at home (6-0), on the road (5-0), and in neutral-site games (1-0). Leading the way for Indian Valley is Grady Kinsey, who has racked up 229.4 rushing yards per game, and Ryker Williams, contributing with 71.9 passing yards per game.

Both teams are showing up strong in their shared statistics. On average, New Lexington is gaining 365.6 total yards per game, while Indian Valley is averaging 453.9 yards per game—primarily on the ground, with a dominant 381 rushing yards per contest. In terms of defense, Indian Valley has been much stronger, averaging 71.1 tackles per game compared to New Lexington’s 55.8.

Despite the differences in offensive approach, both teams share one common trait: their ability to perform against common opponents. Both New Lexington and Indian Valley have defeated Meadowbrook with commanding scores, New Lexington winning 41-19, and Indian Valley taking it to the next level with a 62-21 victory. This shared success highlights the strength of both teams and gives fans a glimpse of what could be an epic postseason showdown.

Team Leaders Comparison:

• New Lexington:
  • Carson Kellogg leads with 109.9 rushing yards per game.
  • Isaiah Stephens has been a dual threat, accounting for 231.7 passing yards per game.
  • Bentley Hanson leads the receiving game with 117.0 yards per game.
  • Harrison Ratliff is the defensive standout with 7.2 tackles per game.
• Indian Valley:
  • Grady Kinsey is a force on the ground with 229.4 rushing yards per game.
  • Ryker Williams offers stability with 71.9 passing yards per game.
  • Eric Golder stands out in the receiving game with 22.9 yards per game.
  • Jaxon Burcher is the top tackler with 6.5 tackles per game.

Both teams are efficient in their respective areas, with New Lexington excelling in passing and balanced offense, while Indian Valley is a dominant rushing machine that controls the clock and grinds down opponents with its defense. As the playoffs approach, the two will undoubtedly make a case for being the team to beat.

Looking Ahead: With postseason implications on the line, both teams will need to rely on their strengths and overcome their opponents with speed, strategy, and execution. New Lexington, with their mix of balanced offense and disciplined defense, will face the challenge of keeping up with the high-flying attack of Indian Valley, while the Braves will look to stay perfect and continue their dominant season.

Fans can expect a thrilling encounter when these two powerhouse teams meet in the postseason, each with their eyes set on the state championship. The question remains: can New Lexington continue their winning ways, or will Indian Valley remain unbeaten as they march toward a title? Stay tuned for an exciting conclusion to the 2024-25 football season!