The Kirtland Hornets (12-0) will host the Columbia Raiders (11-2) in a varsity football playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets for Region 21 in Ohio.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Ohio High School Football
Who: Kirtland vs Columbia
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio) – Region 21
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Game preview: Kirtland vs Columbia

The stage is set for an electrifying high school football playoff game between the Columbia Raiders and the Kirtland Hornets. The two teams will meet at a neutral site on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 p.m., for a highly anticipated matchup that will determine who advances further in the postseason.

Team Overview

Columbia Raiders (11-2)
The Raiders have been a strong contender this season, finishing with an impressive 11-2 overall record. They earned a 6-1 mark in conference play and have a solid track record at home (6-2) and on the road (4-0). Columbia has been a high-scoring team, averaging 33.2 points per game. On offense, Columbia is known for their balanced attack, with 307.3 rushing yards per game and 36.1 passing yards per game.

Offensive standout Jimmy Stofey has been the key playmaker for the Raiders, rushing for an average of 86 yards per game and contributing significantly in the receiving game. Gage Maruna has also been a key player, both as a quarterback and in the passing game, with 31 yards per game through the air. Defensively, Columbia has shown resilience, with an average of 51.2 tackles per game, though their pass rush is not as dominant, with only 1.3 sacks per game.

Kirtland Hornets (12-0)
The Hornets enter this game with a perfect 12-0 record, showcasing dominance throughout the season. Kirtland has been near unstoppable, boasting a 5-0 record in their conference and perfect marks in both home and away games. With a remarkable average of 45.2 points per game, Kirtland’s offense has been a force to be reckoned with, led by Jake Laverde. Laverde has been stellar this season, rushing for 156.8 yards per game, and also contributing in the passing game, which sets Kirtland apart from Columbia’s more run-focused attack.

Kirtland’s defense has been equally formidable, allowing just 4.2 points per game. The Hornets have dominated in every aspect, including a powerful run game and a defense that has stifled opponents all year long. They have been particularly effective against common opponents, with a perfect 2-0 record in such matchups.

Key Matchup: Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Solidity

One of the most intriguing aspects of this game is the contrast in playing styles. Kirtland’s offense has been high-octane, averaging over 45 points per game, while Columbia has been more methodical, with 33.2 points per game. Columbia will need to establish its running game, led by Stofey, and control the clock to keep Kirtland’s explosive offense off the field.

On the other side, Kirtland will look to capitalize on their high-powered offense, particularly through Laverde’s dual-threat capabilities. Columbia’s defense will be challenged to contain Laverde and avoid getting into a shootout with the Hornets.

Head-to-Head History and Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar competition, with each playing against notable teams such as Independence and Fairview. Columbia and Kirtland both defeated Independence with ease, but while Columbia fell to Fairview, Kirtland demolished them 65-16. This disparity in performance against common opponents points to Kirtland’s edge in overall dominance this season.

What’s at Stake

For Columbia, this game is a chance to prove they can overcome a powerful opponent and advance deeper into the playoffs. Kirtland, with its undefeated record, is the favorite, but Columbia has shown resilience throughout the year, and they will be hungry to pull off the upset.

The Kirtland Hornets, on the other hand, aim to keep their perfect season intact and continue their march toward a state title. With home-field advantage and momentum on their side, they are poised to make a deep playoff run.

Conclusion

This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest with high stakes, as two of Ohio’s best high school football teams collide on November 15. Will Columbia’s balanced offense and tenacious defense be enough to stifle Kirtland’s unstoppable offense, or will the Hornets continue their dominant run toward a state championship? The game kicks off at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, and fans can expect a hard-fought battle in what is sure to be one of the most exciting playoff matchups of the season.