The Jesuit (Portland, OR) varsity football team is set to play a neutral playoff game against West Salem (Salem, OR) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: Columbia Cup” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Oregon High School Football
Who: Jesuit vs West Salem
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: Columbia Cup – Columbia Cup
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Game preview: Jesuit vs West Salem

As the football playoffs heat up, the West Salem (Salem, OR) and Jesuit (Portland, OR) varsity football teams are gearing up for a thrilling neutral-site playoff clash. The game will take place today at 7 p.m., and both teams are eager to prove themselves after strong seasons.

Team Records and Overview

West Salem enters the game with a solid 7-4 overall record, finishing 4-4 in league play. They have displayed a balanced attack, with an offense averaging 34.3 points per game. Their season has been a mix of highs and lows, but the team has shown resilience with key wins, including a dominant 42-23 victory over Westview in the last round of playoffs. West Salem’s offensive production is led by standout players like junior quarterback Treynor Cleeland, who has racked up 184.8 passing yards per game, and senior running back Luke Ortner, who averages 104.9 rushing yards per game.

Jesuit, on the other hand, boasts a remarkable 9-2 record, with a 4-1 mark in league play. The team has been dominant on both sides of the ball, scoring an average of 39.1 points per game. Jesuit’s defense has been particularly effective, allowing just 216 points on the season, and their offense, led by senior quarterback Cleeland’s counterpart, has been rolling. Jesuit has also been impressive in playoff action, holding a 2-0 record in postseason games, including a 28-6 victory over Westview.

Head-to-Head Matchup

Looking at their scoring averages, Jesuit has the upper hand in offensive firepower, averaging nearly 40 points per game compared to West Salem’s 28.7. The teams’ offensive strategies are also somewhat distinct, with West Salem relying on a balanced attack of rushing and passing yards, while Jesuit has been more potent through the air, averaging 174.6 passing yards per game, compared to West Salem’s 174.6.

Both teams have faced off against Westview this season. West Salem secured a commanding 42-23 win over the Westview Wildcats, while Jesuit also triumphed, winning 28-6. This gives both teams a common reference point, but Jesuit’s overall stronger record suggests they may have a slight edge heading into this playoff matchup.

Key Players to Watch

• West Salem:
  • Luke Ortner (RB): With 104.9 rushing yards per game, Ortner has been a key part of the team’s offensive success.
  • Treynor Cleeland (QB): Leading the passing game, Cleeland has thrown for 184.8 yards per game and is a major threat to Jesuit’s defense.
  • Joe Stimpson (WR): Stimpson averages 62.9 receiving yards per game and is an important playmaker for the offense.
• Jesuit:
  • Ethan Williams (QB): Williams has been a consistent performer, contributing to Jesuit’s explosive offensive production.
  • Max Thompson (RB): A significant rushing threat, Thompson’s ability to move the ball could be a key factor against West Salem’s defense.

The Playoff Atmosphere

This game promises to be an exciting, high-stakes encounter. Both teams have shown resilience, with West Salem having overcome some early-season struggles and Jesuit building on their consistent dominance. With everything on the line, the intensity of the playoff environment will only add to the drama.

West Salem will need to bring their best to the field, especially in critical moments, as Jesuit’s scoring prowess could overwhelm any team not prepared to meet the challenge. Conversely, Jesuit will aim to capitalize on their solid offensive line play and defensive discipline to continue their impressive postseason run.

The stage is set for a memorable clash. Fans from both sides are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable playoff showdown.