The Jesuit (Portland, OR) varsity football team will face North Medford (Medford, OR) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets for the OSAA 6A tournament.

Jesuit vs North Medford Football Game Info:

What: Oregon High School Football
Who: Jesuit vs North Medford
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSAA – 6A
Watch here: Watch here

Game preview: Jesuit vs North Medford

The stage is set for a thrilling playoff matchup between North Medford (Medford, OR) and Jesuit (Portland, OR) on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. in a neutral location. With both teams having strong regular-season performances, this game promises to be an exciting battle as they fight for a spot in the next round.

Team Overview

North Medford enters the game with an overall record of 9-4, finishing 5-3 in their league. The team has been solid on both sides of the ball, averaging 31.4 points per game. Their offense is led by senior quarterback Treynor Cleeland, who averages 184.8 passing yards per game. Cleeland is complemented by Luke Ortner, who has rushed for 104.9 yards per game, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive output. The Black Tornado has had a strong home record, going 6-1, but their away record is more balanced at 2-3. North Medford enters this playoff matchup having won their last three games, including a strong victory over Tigard.

Jesuit, on the other hand, comes into the game with an impressive 11-2 record, boasting a 4-1 league record. With an average of 36.3 points per game, Jesuit’s offense is explosive, led by quarterback Cleo Thorne and running back Jake Nguyen. Jesuit is particularly potent in the first quarter, where they average 10.7 points per game. Their passing game is also a threat, with their quarterback delivering 184.8 passing yards per game. Jesuit has also had a dominant season, with victories over teams like Tigard and West Salem, and enters the playoffs with a 4-0 playoff record.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

The two teams have had strong showings against common opponents. Both North Medford and Jesuit have a 3-0 record against their shared adversaries, including victories over West Salem and Tigard. For instance, North Medford triumphed over Tigard 15-8, while Jesuit took down Tigard 42-21 earlier in the season. This shared success highlights that both teams are well-matched and capable of going toe-to-toe with high-quality opponents.

Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense

One of the most intriguing aspects of this game will be how the two offenses match up. North Medford’s balanced offense, which combines a strong running game with a solid passing attack, will look to keep Jesuit’s defense on its toes. However, Jesuit’s offense, averaging 36.3 points per game, will be a tough test for North Medford’s defense. Jesuit’s fast start in the first half will be key, as they have averaged over 10 points per game in the first quarter alone.

Both teams also have strong defenses. North Medford has allowed 238 points this season, while Jesuit has given up 256. With both teams showing a capability to score, this playoff game could come down to which defense can step up when it matters most.

Players to Watch

• North Medford: Quarterback Treynor Cleeland, with 184.8 passing yards per game, and running back Luke Ortner, who averages 104.9 rushing yards, will be critical to the Black Tornado’s success. Wide receiver Joe Stimpson is another key player, averaging 62.9 receiving yards per game and 9.0 points per game.
• Jesuit: Quarterback Cleo Thorne is a dual-threat, both through the air and on the ground, leading the team’s dynamic offense. Look for Thorne to target standout receivers early and often. Defensively, Jesuit’s defensive line will need to keep pressure on Cleeland and contain Ortner to limit North Medford’s big plays.

What’s at Stake

With both teams carrying momentum into this matchup, this game will be pivotal for both programs. North Medford has an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the state’s top teams, while Jesuit looks to continue their playoff dominance. The winner will advance further in the postseason, with hopes of claiming a state title.

Conclusion

This is shaping up to be an exciting playoff showdown between two teams that have proven themselves throughout the regular season. North Medford’s balanced offense faces a stiff test in Jesuit’s high-scoring attack, while both defenses will have to play their best to secure the win. Fans can expect a thrilling contest on November 22 at 7 p.m.