The Tallassee (AL) varsity football team will face Jackson (AL) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs in the 4A tournament, where both teams aim to advance in the postseason and continue their championship aspirations.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Alabama High School Football Playoff
Who: Jackson vs Tallassee
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs – 4A
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Jackson vs. Tallassee
The 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs are in full swing, and this Friday, November 22, a compelling 4A tournament matchup will take place between Jackson (AL) and Tallassee (AL). The game, set for 7 p.m. in a neutral location, promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with strong records and different playing styles.
Jackson’s Powerful Season
Jackson has had a dominant season, entering the playoffs with an impressive 11-1 overall record. The team has been perfect in region play, finishing 6-0, and boasts a potent offense that has averaged 45 points per game. The team’s scoring breakdown shows their offensive power:
- Q1: 19.0 points
- Q2: 9.7 points
- Q3: 10.7 points
- Q4: 0 points
- Final: 45.0 points
Jackson’s ability to explode early in games has been key to their success, and they’ll look to continue their fast start against Tallassee in the playoffs. With a solid offense and a defense that has only allowed 144 points this season, Jackson will be a tough opponent for Tallassee to overcome.
Tallassee’s Steady Approach
Tallassee, with a 9-2-1 record, enters the playoffs as a solid competitor. Their region record stands at 6-1, and while they don’t score as prolifically as Jackson, they’ve relied on a more balanced approach to secure wins. Tallassee’s offense has averaged 27.8 points per game, and their scoring breakdown includes:
- Q1: 5.3 points
- Q2: 10.5 points
- Q3: 5.3 points
- Q4: 6.0 points
- Final: 27.8 points
Though Tallassee’s offense isn’t as explosive as Jackson’s, they have demonstrated resilience, especially in tight games. Their ability to keep games close, coupled with a solid defense that has allowed 193 points, will be important if they hope to upset Jackson.
Key Factors in the Game
For Jackson to succeed, they will need to continue their fast-start offense, exploiting Tallassee’s defense early. Their ability to capitalize in the first half will be critical, especially considering their tendency to slow down in the fourth quarter.
Tallassee’s best chance lies in their ability to weather Jackson’s early storm and maintain a steady offensive attack throughout the game. If they can keep the game close and find ways to score in the second half, they may have a shot at pulling off an upset.
The stage is set for an exciting showdown between Jackson (11-1) and Tallassee (9-2-1). Both teams have been formidable throughout the season, and with playoff implications on the line, fans can expect a thrilling contest. This matchup features two teams with impressive offensive numbers, and both squads will be looking to assert their dominance on the field.
Team Stats Comparison
- Offense:
- Jackson has been productive on offense, averaging 439.8 total yards per game. With 199.8 rushing yards per game and 239.9 passing yards per game, they offer a balanced offensive attack. Led by Ezavier Crowell with 122.6 rushing yards per game and Landon Duckworth contributing 223.1 passing yards per game, Jackson has found success both on the ground and in the air.
- Tallassee, while not quite as explosive statistically, has still been effective with 242.1 receiving yards per game. They average 439.8 total yards per game, relying on their passing game to make plays. Landon Duckworth has been a key figure, racking up 267.9 total yards per game.
- Defense:
- Jackson has been solid defensively, averaging 70.1 tackles per game and 1.9 sacks per game. Their defense has been a steady presence, helping them maintain a strong record throughout the season.
- Tallassee has been slightly more aggressive with their defense, though not as productive in terms of tackles. They have posted 0.2 sacks per game, relying more on their ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays.
- Scoring:
- Jackson has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging 43.5 points per game, reflecting their ability to score consistently. Their balanced offensive attack has been difficult for opposing teams to contain.
- Tallassee, while effective, has been more conservative, scoring 21.0 points per game. They have been able to pull out victories through strong defense and efficient scoring, but their offense has not reached the same heights as Jackson’s.
Key Players to Watch
- Jackson:
- Ezavier Crowell: With 122.6 rushing yards per game, Crowell has been the backbone of the Jackson offense. His ability to break through tackles and gain significant yardage has made him a player to watch.
- Landon Duckworth: Leading the charge in the passing game with 223.1 passing yards per game, Duckworth has been crucial in moving the ball through the air and creating scoring opportunities for his team.
- Tallassee:
- Landon Duckworth: Tallassee’s Landon Duckworth is not to be confused with Jackson’s star quarterback, as Tallassee’s version has been a key performer, contributing to their offensive success.
- Laquon Whisenhunt: A top defensive player for Tallassee, Whisenhunt will be tasked with containing the Jackson offense. His ability to tackle and disrupt plays will be critical in keeping the game close.
Common Opponents
Both Jackson and Tallassee have faced common opponents Mobile Christian and Bullock County, with both teams emerging victorious:
- Jackson defeated Mobile Christian 49-7 and Bullock County 55-0, showing their offensive might in blowout wins.
- Tallassee also came out on top against these opponents, with a 21-14 win over Mobile Christian and a 21-18 victory over Bullock County.
Record Breakdown
- Jackson: With an 11-1 record, Jackson has been dominant throughout the season, finishing 6-0 in league play. Their only loss came at the hands of a tough opponent, but they have rebounded strongly to maintain their high ranking.
- Tallassee: Tallassee has posted a 9-2-1 record, with a 6-1 league mark. They have been competitive throughout the season, with one tie and only two losses, proving their consistency in both league and non-league play.
Conclusion
The Jackson vs. Tallassee game will feature two high-scoring offenses and solid defenses. Jackson’s explosive offensive attack, led by Ezavier Crowell and Landon Duckworth, will look to overwhelm Tallassee’s defense. Meanwhile, Tallassee will rely on their ability to disrupt Jackson’s rhythm and take advantage of their strong passing game.
This game is sure to be a close contest, with both teams eager to prove their mettle in the postseason. Expect a thrilling battle that could go down to the wire, with each team bringing their best to the field.