The Jefferson varsity football team from San Antonio, TX, will face Elgin, TX, in a neutral playoff game today at 7 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, specifically in the 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 2 tournament.

Jefferson vs Elgin Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Jefferson vs Elgin
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 2
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Game preview: Jefferson vs Elgin

As the 2024-25 high school football season progresses, Elgin and Jefferson find themselves at a critical point, boasting identical overall records of 5-5. While their records appear similar on paper, a deeper dive into the numbers reveals fascinating contrasts in team strengths, styles of play, and game-day strategies.

Rankings & Standings

Both Elgin and Jefferson have fought through competitive schedules to land where they are. In state rankings, Elgin holds a respectable position at 120th, while Jefferson sits further back at 235th. In divisional rankings, Elgin is ranked 54th, compared to Jefferson’s 95th. These rankings underscore the competitiveness of both squads, with district play proving vital to their successes.

District Play Elgin has been a formidable force in district competition, sporting a 5-2 record and a strong .714 district winning percentage. Jefferson, however, has performed even better within their district, going 5-1 and achieving an impressive .833 winning percentage. Both teams have used their district performances to secure their overall .500 records, but Jefferson’s ability to dominate in league matchups gives them an edge.

Scoring and Offense

When it comes to putting points on the board, Elgin has showcased a high-powered offense, averaging 41.6 points per game. The team’s offensive production tends to peak early, with Elgin scoring an impressive 17 points on average in the first quarter and maintaining solid outputs through the second and third quarters. However, they seem to taper off in the fourth, averaging only 5.3 points.

In contrast, Jefferson has struggled offensively, averaging just 23.4 points per game. Their scoring distribution remains relatively low and consistent throughout games, with an average of 4.7 points in the first quarter and similar outputs in the following periods. The inability to ramp up offensive production has put pressure on their defense in tight contests.

Team Yardage and Defensive Stats

Elgin’s offense has been electric, averaging 374.2 total yards per game. They balance their attack with 172.5 rushing yards and 201.7 passing yards per contest. Quarterback Dylan Owens has been a standout performer, throwing for 145.0 passing yards per game and contributing 222.8 total yards of offense. Receiver Jalen Owens leads with 71.5 receiving yards per game, while Gary Jefferson Jr. adds to the rushing attack with 61.8 yards per game.

Defensively, Elgin averages 63.7 tackles and records 3.0 sacks per game, which has helped keep opponents at bay. Matthew Clear leads the defensive effort with 7.7 tackles per game, while Lewis Reese adds half a sack per contest.

Team Leaders Comparison

For Jefferson, individual statistics have been less eye-catching, with no player significantly standing out compared to Elgin’s leaders. The national averages highlight the gap, as Jefferson’s players have yet to match the explosive production seen from Elgin’s core. This has made team defense crucial for Jefferson, though their defensive efficiency hasn’t always been enough to compensate for offensive shortcomings.

Home and Away Performances

Both teams have had their share of struggles and successes away from home. Elgin has gone 3-2 at home and 2-3 on the road, showing some vulnerability in away games. Jefferson has been slightly more balanced but still inconsistent, with a 2-2 home record and a 3-3 performance on the road.

Breaking Down the Record

Both squads are winless in non-league play, struggling against opponents outside their districts with 0-3 and 0-4 records, respectively. Head-to-head matchups and games against common opponents are yet to occur, leaving room for significant narratives to unfold as the season advances.

What’s Next?

As the season nears its conclusion, both Elgin and Jefferson will look to break the .500 threshold and finish strong. Elgin’s explosive offense will need to maintain early momentum, while Jefferson’s defense must continue to improve if they are to emerge victorious in their upcoming battles.

Fans can expect thrilling matchups as these evenly-matched teams fight for bragging rights and higher standings. The road to playoffs may still be uncertain, but every game matters as Elgin and Jefferson aim to leave their mark on the 2024-25 season.