The Cherokee Christian varsity football team from Woodstock, GA, will face Lanier Christian Academy from Flowery Branch, GA, in a neutral playoff game today at 6:30 PM at Cherokee Christian. This matchup is part of the 2024 GAPPS 11-Man Football State Playoffs tournament.
Lanier Christian Academy vs Cherokee Christian High School Football Game Info:
What: Georgia High School Football
Who: LCA vs CCHS
When: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 6:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 GAPPS Football State Playoffs – GAPPS 11-Man Football 2024
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Lanier Christian Academy vs Cherokee Christian
The 2024 GAPPS Football State Playoffs heat up tonight as Lanier Christian Academy (Flowery Branch, GA) takes on Cherokee Christian (Woodstock, GA) at 6:30 PM in a neutral-site matchup at Cherokee Christian. Both teams will battle for a chance to advance deeper into the postseason, with Lanier Christian bringing momentum from a strong season and Cherokee Christian looking to capitalize on home-field familiarity.
Season Performance
Lanier Christian Academy comes into the game with an impressive 8-3 record, including a perfect 3-0 in regional play. They have been dominant on both sides of the ball, scoring 315 points while allowing only 136 across their games. Cherokee Christian, on the other hand, holds a 5-5 record. While the Warriors have been solid at home (4-1), their away performance (1-4) and narrow point differential (242 scored vs. 235 allowed) reflect a season of ups and downs.
Previous Meeting
The two teams last faced off on October 18, with Lanier Christian edging out Cherokee Christian 17-10 in a tightly contested game. Cherokee Christian led 10-0 at halftime but was unable to hold off Lanier Christian’s second-half surge. Quarterback Drew Kalinauskis and receiver Andrew Batusic played pivotal roles in the comeback victory, securing crucial plays in the fourth quarter.
Team Comparisons
Statistically, these teams are well-matched. Lanier Christian averages 247.9 yards per game, with a balanced attack of 127.4 rushing yards and 120.5 passing yards. Cherokee Christian edges ahead slightly in total yards per game (249.7), thanks to a more pass-heavy offense led by quarterback Bear Statham, who averages 77.5 passing yards per game.
Defensively, Cherokee Christian boasts 47 tackles per game compared to Lanier Christian’s 10.8, highlighting the Warriors’ physicality. However, Lanier Christian’s efficiency, reflected in their 1.000 regional win percentage and 28.1 points-per-game average, could be the deciding factor.
Key Players to Watch
- Lanier Christian Academy:
- Noah Freeman (#42): Leading the team with 100.6 rushing yards per game, Freeman will be vital in controlling the tempo.
- Drew Kalinauskis (#14): A dual-threat quarterback with 122.4 total yards per game.
- Isaiah Hrenuic (#56): Defensive anchor with 5 tackles per game.
- Cherokee Christian:
- Jayben Meder (#4): A versatile playmaker averaging 87.8 receiving yards per game and contributing in rushing and tackles.
- Mikey Statham (#3): Defensive standout with 10.7 tackles per game.
- Bear Statham (#16): Quarterback who can make big plays through the air.
Common Opponents
Both teams are undefeated against common opponents, showcasing their ability to dominate mutual competition. Lanier Christian’s most lopsided win was a 57-12 rout of Skipstone Academy, while Cherokee Christian posted a 55-0 shutout against Dominion Christian.
What to Expect
With playoff stakes high, this game promises to be another close battle. Lanier Christian’s balanced offense and second-half resilience will be tested against Cherokee Christian’s home-field advantage and aggressive defense. For Cherokee Christian, early scoring and holding off late-game surges could be critical to pulling off an upset.
The stage is set for a thrilling clash as these two teams fight for a spot in the next round of the GAPPS State Playoffs. Fans can expect a showcase of grit, strategy, and determination as the Warriors and Lightning meet under the lights.
