The Jones Tigers (14-0) will face the American Heritage Patriots (11-2) today at 7:30 p.m. in a highly anticipated neutral playoff game at Jones High School in Orlando. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships for the 4A division, and with both teams boasting impressive records, fans can expect a thrilling and competitive contest.

Game Details

• What: Florida High School Football
• Who: Jones vs. American Heritage
• When: Friday, December 13, 2024
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 4A FHSAA Football
• Live Stream: Watch here

Team Breakdown

American Heritage enters the game with a strong 11-2 record, having dominated in district play with a perfect 3-0 district record. Their offense averages 30.6 points per game, and their defense has allowed just 201 points all season. Quarterback Dia Bell has been a key leader, throwing for 236.1 yards per game, while running back Byron Louis adds 124.7 rushing yards per game to the mix.

On the other hand, Jones has been unstoppable this season, entering the game undefeated with a perfect 14-0 record. The Tigers have excelled in both district and non-district play, boasting an unblemished 8-0 home record. They are averaging 35.0 points per game and 420.1 total yards per game. Quarterback Dereon Coleman leads the offense with 231.3 passing yards per game, while running back Jaquail Smith adds 123.4 rushing yards per game.

Key Stats & Matchup Insights

Both teams are well-matched in terms of overall performance. Jones has a slight advantage in total yards per game (420.1) compared to American Heritage’s 419.2. While both teams are proficient in the passing game—Jones averages 234.0 passing yards per game to American Heritage’s 226.5—the Patriots hold the edge in rushing yards per game (192.7) versus Jones’ 186.1.

Defensively, American Heritage averages 79.0 tackles per game, slightly ahead of Jones’ 67.6 tackles. However, Jones has been more effective at disrupting opposing offenses, averaging 4.1 sacks per game compared to American Heritage’s 1.1. This could prove crucial as Jones looks to pressure Bell and slow down the Patriots’ high-powered offense.

Key Players

American Heritage’s offense is powered by the dynamic duo of quarterback Dia Bell, who averages 236.1 total yards per game, and running back Byron Louis, who leads the team with 124.7 rushing yards per game. Bell is also a dual threat, contributing 10.1 points per game.

For Jones, quarterback Dereon Coleman has been instrumental in their success, throwing for 231.3 passing yards per game. Coleman is complemented by running back Jaquail Smith, who averages 123.4 rushing yards per game, and wide receiver Vernell Brown III, a standout with 100.4 receiving yards per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams share a common opponent in Naples. American Heritage defeated Naples 23-3 on the road on September 13, 2024, while Jones secured an 18-7 victory over Naples at home on December 6, 2024. Both teams emerged victorious in these matchups, but the different circumstances of each game add an interesting dynamic as they face off today.

Playoff History

Both teams have been dominant in the postseason, with each sporting a 4-0 playoff record this year. The pressure is on both squads to continue their playoff success and advance toward a state title. Jones will look to extend their perfect season, while American Heritage aims to capitalize on their balanced attack and experience in big-game situations.

Final Thoughts

This neutral playoff game will feature two powerhouse teams with contrasting but equally effective styles. American Heritage’s balanced offensive attack will face off against Jones’ high-powered offense and aggressive defense. As both teams look to maintain their perfect playoff records, fans can expect a high-energy contest where every play counts.

The outcome of this game will test each team’s ability to execute under pressure and could be a key moment in the path to the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championship. With the stakes high and both teams on a roll, only one will emerge victorious tonight.