The Robinson (Little Rock, AR) varsity football team is set to face Lakeside (Hot Springs, AR) in a highly anticipated neutral playoff matchup today at 7 p.m. This game is part of the “2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas) – 2024 5A Football State Bracket” tournament, promising an intense battle for state glory.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arkansas High School Football Playoff
Who: Lakeside vs Robinson
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas) – 2024 5A Football State Bracket
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Robinson vs. Lakeside

The stage is set for an electrifying playoff clash as Robinson (Little Rock, AR) takes on Lakeside (Hot Springs, AR). Both teams are coming off stellar seasons, and their head-to-head in the “2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas) – 2024 5A Football State Bracket” promises a thrilling contest. Here’s a closer look at the teams.

Rankings and Records

Robinson enters the game ranked 11th in Arkansas overall and 2nd in their class, reflecting their dominance this season. With a 10-1 overall record and a perfect 7-0 conference run, the Senators boast a .909 win percentage and an undefeated 5-0 record at home. Their defense has been exceptional, allowing just 150 points across the season while scoring 383.

Lakeside, ranked 14th in Arkansas overall and 3rd in their class, has been equally impressive with a 9-2 record. The Rams have a strong .818 win percentage and an excellent 6-1 record in conference play. They’ve proven to be an offensive force, putting up 452 points while allowing 188, with an unblemished 6-0 record at home.

Team Scoring Averages

The offensive dynamics of these teams set up an intriguing battle:

• Lakeside: Averaging 41.1 points per game, Lakeside thrives in the second and third quarters, scoring 9.6 and 10.8 points on average. Their strong offensive production has been key to their success, but they slow down in the fourth quarter, averaging just 5.4 points.
• Robinson: With an average of 34.8 points per game, Robinson starts games with authority, scoring 12.1 points in the first quarter and peaking with 13.5 points in the second. However, their offense tapers significantly in the third quarter, averaging only 3.2 points before a modest fourth-quarter resurgence of 6.0 points.

What to Watch For

Robinson’s strength lies in their consistency and defensive prowess, having conceded just 150 points all season. Their ability to dominate early will be crucial as they aim to build a lead before Lakeside’s potent second-half offense takes over.

Lakeside, meanwhile, will lean on their offensive firepower and balanced scoring to wear down Robinson’s defense. Their resilience in road games, despite a 2-2 away record, will be put to the test in this neutral-site playoff battle.

Key Questions

• Can Robinson maintain their early-game dominance and hold off Lakeside’s mid-game surges?
• Will Lakeside’s high-scoring offense find ways to break through Robinson’s stout defense?
• Which team’s adaptability and composure will prevail under playoff pressure?

This high-stakes matchup brings together two elite teams in a battle for state glory. Fans can expect a hard-fought game filled with strategic plays, explosive scoring, and nail-biting moments. It’s all or nothing in this playoff showdown, and the winner will be one step closer to the 5A State Championship.

As the 2024 high school football season reaches its critical stages, Lakeside and Robinson emerge as two of the top contenders. Both teams bring impressive records, dynamic playmakers, and high-scoring offenses, setting the stage for a thrilling matchup. Here’s an in-depth look at their season statistics, team leaders, and overall performances.

Team Statistics

Lakeside Highlights:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 214.7
• Passing Yards Per Game: 183.7
• Total Yards Per Game: 398.5
• Tackles Per Game: 65.0
• Sacks Per Game: 1.4
• Points Per Game: 40.5

Lakeside boasts a balanced offensive attack, excelling in both the ground game and passing. Their ability to rack up nearly 400 yards of offense per game is complemented by a high-scoring output of over 40 points per game.

Robinson Highlights:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 160.9
• Passing Yards Per Game: 179.4
• Total Yards Per Game: 340.3
• Tackles Per Game: 76.3
• Sacks Per Game: 2.9
• Points Per Game: 35.0

Robinson’s strength lies in its defense, with an impressive 76.3 tackles and 2.9 sacks per game. Their balanced offense, coupled with a stingy defense, makes them a formidable opponent.

Team Leaders

Lakeside:

• Grady Ohman (#44):
  • Rushing: 183.2 yards per game
  • Total Yards: 192.5 yards per game
  • Scoring: 14.7 points per game
    Ohman is the centerpiece of Lakeside’s offense, consistently delivering explosive plays on the ground.
• Wally Wolcott (#9):
  • Passing: 181.0 yards per game
    A reliable quarterback, Wolcott keeps the offense balanced with his efficiency through the air.
• Ryan Ballard (#18):
  • Receiving: 65.1 yards per game
    Ballard provides a consistent target in the passing game, adding depth to Lakeside’s offensive options.

Robinson:

• Jordan “Eagle” Thomas (#3):
  • Rushing: 57.6 yards per game
    A versatile back, Thomas leads Robinson’s ground game with a steady presence.
• Tyson Bradden (#1):
  • Passing: 163.6 yards per game
  • Total Yards: 168.1 yards per game
    Bradden is a dual-threat quarterback who leads Robinson’s offense with poise and precision.
• Isiah Reese (#21):
  • Tackles: 10.2 per game
    Reese is the anchor of Robinson’s defense, consistently making plays to stifle opponents.
• Kaleb Doucette (#11):
  • Sacks: 1.0 per game
    Doucette’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks makes him a key asset for Robinson’s defense.

Record Comparison

• Overall: Lakeside (9-2) vs. Robinson (10-1)
• League Records: Lakeside (6-1), Robinson (7-0)
• Home Advantage: Both teams are undefeated at home, Lakeside (6-0) and Robinson (5-0).
• Playoff Success: Both are 1-0 in playoffs, showing their ability to perform under pressure.

Head-to-Head Matchup

Robinson has the upper hand in their lone head-to-head meeting this season, taking the win to maintain their near-perfect record.

Analysis and Predictions

Lakeside’s success hinges on their ability to establish the run game through Grady Ohman, who has been nothing short of spectacular. Their balanced attack allows them to dictate the pace of games. However, they’ll face a stiff challenge against Robinson’s aggressive defense, led by Reese and Doucette.

Robinson’s edge lies in their ability to capitalize on turnovers and pressure opposing offenses. Bradden’s versatility at quarterback provides a steady foundation, while their defense ensures they stay competitive in close games.

Conclusion

This matchup promises to be a thrilling clash of styles. Lakeside’s explosive offense and Robinson’s tenacious defense will go head-to-head in what could be a tightly contested game. Whichever team can impose its will—whether through Lakeside’s high-octane attack or Robinson’s defensive dominance—will likely come out on top.

Expect fireworks on the field as both teams fight for supremacy in what has been an incredible season for both programs.