The Jay High School (San Antonio, TX) varsity football team will host New Braunfels (TX) in a home playoff game today at 2:00 PM at Gustafson Stadium. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Jay vs New Braunfels Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Jay vs New Braunfels
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
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Game preview: Jay vs New Braunfels

As the high school football season progresses, two teams from the Texas area have stood out—New Braunfels and Jay. With both teams boasting impressive records, this breakdown will delve into their season performances, statistical comparisons, and key players, shedding light on what makes each team unique.

Team Overview

New Braunfels:

• Overall Record: 7-3
• District Record: 5-2
• Home Record: 4-1
• Away Record: 3-2
• Points Per Game: 36.9
• Points Allowed Per Game: 22.3

New Braunfels has demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, averaging 36.9 points per game, led by key players like quarterback Clayton Namken and wide receiver Cayden Mills. Their rushing game, with standout running back Brock Stewart, adds an extra dimension to their attack. Despite a strong showing, their 3 losses indicate room for improvement, especially in tough road games.

Jay:

• Overall Record: 9-1
• District Record: 7-1
• Home Record: 5-0
• Away Record: 4-1
• Points Per Game: 31.3
• Points Allowed Per Game: 10.3

Jay has been dominant this season, with an exceptional 9-1 record. Their defense has been stifling, allowing just 10.3 points per game. On offense, they are led by running back Nicholas Rios and quarterback Tajari Wellington, who have contributed significantly to their high-scoring games. With an impressive district record and a perfect home record, Jay enters the playoff picture as one of the most feared teams in the region.

Team Stat Comparison

• Rushing Yards Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 182.7
  • Jay: 223.1

  Jay holds a slight edge in rushing yards, thanks to the explosive play of Nicholas Rios and other skilled rushers. However, New Braunfels has been solid on the ground as well, particularly with Brock Stewart’s steady performance.

• Passing Yards Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 218.7
  • Jay: 107.3

  New Braunfels relies more heavily on the passing game, with Clayton Namken leading the way with over 180 passing yards per game. Jay, on the other hand, focuses on its ground game, with limited passing attempts but still efficient when needed.

• Receiving Yards Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 218.7
  • Jay: 99.7

  New Braunfels also excels in the receiving department, with Cayden Mills as a key target. Their aerial attack has been a key factor in their offensive success, outpacing Jay in receiving yards per game.

• Total Yards Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 401.4
  • Jay: 330.4

  With a balanced offensive attack that blends rushing and passing, New Braunfels generates more total yards per game than Jay, showcasing their versatility and ability to mix up play calling.

• Tackles Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 82.7
  • Jay: 62.8

  New Braunfels also has a more aggressive defense, making more tackles per game. This suggests they may be better at stopping plays in the backfield and preventing long gains from their opponents.

• Sacks Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 1.3
  • Jay: 1.5

  Jay leads in sacks per game, indicating a slightly more dominant defensive front. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the opposing offense could be a deciding factor in close games.

• Points Per Game:
  • New Braunfels: 36.9
  • Jay: 31.3

  While Jay’s defense has been a focal point, New Braunfels’ offense edges them in points per game, showcasing their ability to produce on the scoreboard.

Key Players to Watch

New Braunfels:

• Brock Stewart (RB): Averaging 75.2 rushing yards per game, Stewart is a key figure in New Braunfels’ offensive attack. His ability to gain consistent yards makes him a vital part of their success.
• Clayton Namken (QB): With 183.8 passing yards per game, Namken’s arm strength and accuracy have been crucial for New Braunfels’ offensive production.
• Cayden Mills (WR): Mills is a top target in the receiving game, averaging 100.8 yards per game.

Jay:

• Nicholas Rios (RB): Leading the team with 112.7 rushing yards per game, Rios is a dynamic player capable of breaking long runs and finding the end zone.
• Tajari Wellington (QB): With 105.0 passing yards per game, Wellington is efficient in his role, contributing to both the running and passing game.
• Matthew Rios (WR): Despite fewer receiving yards per game compared to Mills, Rios is a dependable option and a key player in Jay’s offensive scheme.

Record Breakdown

• Head-to-Head: Neither team has played against each other recently, so this matchup would be an exciting first encounter.
• Home/Away Games: Both teams have strong home records, with New Braunfels posting a 4-1 record at home and Jay remaining perfect at 5-0. Their away records are also solid, with Jay holding a 4-1 record, while New Braunfels has a slightly less impressive 3-2 mark.

Conclusion

Both New Braunfels and Jay have had impressive seasons, but with Jay’s more balanced play, particularly their stifling defense, they appear poised for a strong playoff run. However, New Braunfels’ potent offense, led by Clayton Namken and Brock Stewart, will certainly test Jay’s defense. This is a matchup to watch closely, as both teams have the talent to go deep into the postseason. Whether it’s New Braunfels’ offensive fireworks or Jay’s defensive dominance, fans can expect an exciting contest if these two teams meet on the field.