The La Salle Academy varsity football team (Providence, RI) will play a neutral playoff game against Bishop Hendricken (Warwick, RI) on Friday, November 22 at 6:00 PM. This game is part of the “RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – State Championship (D.1) Bracket” tournament.

La Salle Academy vs Bishop Hendricken Football Game Info:

What: Rhode Island High School Football
Who: La Salle Academy vs Bishop Hendricken
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Bracket: RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – State Championship (D.1) Bracket
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Game preview: La Salle Academy vs Bishop Hendricken

Date: Friday, November 22, 6:00 PM
Location: Neutral Site

The highly anticipated playoff matchup between Bishop Hendricken and La Salle Academy is set for this Friday evening, promising an exciting clash between two powerhouse teams in Rhode Island high school football.

Season Overview

• Bishop Hendricken (6-4 overall, 5-2 league): With a strong record and impressive performance, Bishop Hendricken has been a consistent contender in Rhode Island’s Division 2. Their season was marked by a potent offense, averaging 26.3 points per game, and a solid defense, giving up just 18.4 points per contest. Key contributors like Dylan Lynch, who leads the team with 163.5 passing yards per game, and Jeremy Dennis, their top rusher with 68.5 yards per game, have been pivotal in their success. Their defensive unit, spearheaded by Okah Wali and Jeremy Seidi, provides a strong foundation.
• La Salle Academy (7-3 overall, 3-1 league): Competing in Division 1, La Salle Academy’s record reflects their resilience in a more competitive league. With an average of 21.2 points per game, they’ve faced a tougher schedule, but their ability to rise to the occasion makes them a dangerous team. In their previous game against Bishop Hendricken, La Salle struggled to break through, falling 24-7. However, their balanced offense and solid defense, which has helped them maintain a 3-1 league record, will be key to their playoff hopes.

Head-to-Head History

The most recent matchup between these two teams took place on October 4, where Bishop Hendricken delivered a dominant 24-7 victory. La Salle Academy was unable to muster much offense, scoring just one touchdown. This outcome will surely fuel their drive for revenge in the neutral-site playoff game, where they’ll look to upset the higher-ranked Bishop Hendricken team.

Team Scoring Averages and Key Players

• Bishop Hendricken has a well-rounded attack, averaging 145.9 rushing yards, 130.8 passing yards, and 276.7 total yards per game. The team’s ability to execute on all fronts has been a significant factor in their success. Their defense, led by Seidi’s 0.5 sacks per game and Wali’s 5.9 tackles per game, keeps them tough against opposing offenses.
• La Salle Academy, while not as prolific in their offensive production, has had solid performances across the board. They’ve averaged 212 total yards per game, including a strong passing game from their quarterback. However, their scoring has been inconsistent, averaging just 21.2 points per game, which will need to improve if they’re to contend with Bishop Hendricken’s offense.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced off against common opponents such as Barnstable, with Bishop Hendricken winning 31-24 on October 10, and La Salle Academy narrowly defeating Barnstable 31-28 on October 25. These games illustrate both teams’ ability to outlast tough competition, though Bishop Hendricken’s margin of victory was slightly more comfortable.

Playoff Implications

This playoff game is crucial for both teams. Bishop Hendricken enters the contest as the more experienced team in the postseason, boasting a 1-0 record in playoff games this year. Meanwhile, La Salle Academy will be looking for redemption and a chance to advance in the postseason after their earlier loss to Hendricken.

Conclusion

As the two teams prepare for this highly anticipated neutral-site clash, the outcome will likely come down to which team can capitalize on the others’ weaknesses. Bishop Hendricken’s potent offense and solid defense give them the edge, but La Salle Academy’s desire for revenge and ability to execute in tight games cannot be underestimated. This promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams playing for a shot at further playoff glory.