The Juniata (Mifflintown, PA) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Southern Lehigh (Center Valley, PA) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 PIAA Football Championship in the 4A division.
Juniata vs Southern Lehigh Football Game Info:
What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Juniata vs Southern Lehigh
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 4A
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Game preview: Juniata vs Southern Lehigh
As high school football teams gear up for their upcoming matchups, fans are closely watching teams with strong records and high-scoring offenses. Two teams with impressive performances this season are Southern Lehigh and Juniata, both showing solid records and high rankings in their respective classes.
Southern Lehigh Overview
Southern Lehigh, with an overall record of 11-2, has had an impressive season, boasting a 7-2 conference record and a dominant home performance at 6-1. The team’s offensive efficiency has been a standout, averaging 38 points per game (PPG). Their balanced offense sees a strong rushing game, with an average of 181.2 yards per game, complemented by a solid passing game (138.4 YPG) and receiving yardage (138.4 YPG).
Southern Lehigh has proven to be particularly potent in the first half of games, scoring an average of 6.8 points in the first quarter and 18.4 in the second. In the second half, they maintain consistency, scoring 13 points in the third quarter and 3.8 in the fourth, showcasing a balanced offensive attack throughout the game.
Juniata Overview
Juniata, with a record of 9-3, has been impressive in their own right. Their 7-1 conference record places them among the top teams in their league, and they’ve proven to be particularly tough at home, going undefeated with a 6-0 record. Their offense, while not as high-scoring as Southern Lehigh’s, averages 29.1 PPG. The team’s early scoring is strong, as they average 8.4 points in the first quarter and 9.7 points in the second, although their scoring slows down after halftime with averages of 7.3 in the third and 3.2 in the fourth.
Juniata excels on the ground with 181.2 rushing yards per game, and their defense also stands out. The team averages 72.5 tackles per game, and standout players like Lane Peiper, who averages 9.3 tackles per game, have contributed to the team’s defensive prowess. They also excel in limiting opponents’ scoring, allowing only 142 points over the course of the season.
Key Player Performances
For Southern Lehigh, key players like #22 Javier Lopez (70.2 rushing yards per game) and #12 Wyatt Ehrenzeller (135.7 passing yards per game) have been crucial to the team’s success. Meanwhile, receiver #11 Jasper Shepps has been an offensive powerhouse with 74.3 receiving yards per game and 8 points per game.
Juniata’s offensive leaders include quarterback #12 Wyatt Ehrenzeller, who has thrown for 135.7 yards per game. Running back and receiver #11 Jasper Shepps has been instrumental with 74.3 receiving yards per game and a total of 8 points per game.
Team Comparison and Strengths
Both teams have proven to be successful, with Southern Lehigh showcasing a potent offensive attack and Juniata leaning heavily on strong defense and a balanced, efficient offense. Southern Lehigh’s ability to score heavily in the first half gives them a strong advantage, while Juniata’s ability to control the clock and play sound defense is a key factor in their success.
Both teams are well-coached, with Southern Lehigh relying on their passing game and explosive plays and Juniata focusing on consistency and defensive dominance. The upcoming matchups between these two teams could be a battle of contrasting styles, with Southern Lehigh’s offensive firepower challenging Juniata’s disciplined defensive strategies.
Head-to-Head Record
Both teams have yet to meet head-to-head this season, and there are no common opponents to compare their performances directly. However, with both teams heading into the postseason with high expectations, a future showdown could promise to be one for the ages.
Conclusion
Southern Lehigh and Juniata have built impressive resumes this season, with Southern Lehigh dominating in offensive production and Juniata excelling in defensive control. As these two teams approach their next games, both will be looking to solidify their positions as top contenders in their respective leagues, and their upcoming matchups will certainly be ones to watch.
