The Las Lomas Knights (17-5) varsity flag football team from Walnut Creek, CA, will face off against the Northgate Broncos (14-6), also from Walnut Creek, CA, in a neutral playoff game today at 5 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 NCS Girls Flag Football Championships tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: California High School Flag Football
Who: Las Lomas vs Northgate
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5 PM
Bracket: 2024 NCS Girls Flag Football Championships – 2024 NCS Girls Flag Football Ch
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Game preview: Las Lomas vs Northgate

As the 2024-2025 flag football season enters its final stretch, the Northgate Knights and Las Lomas Knights have proven to be two of the top teams in the Walnut Creek area. The rivalry between these two squads has intensified, especially after Las Lomas narrowly defeated Northgate 21-20 in their most recent matchup on October 2nd. With a neutral-site playoff game scheduled for later today, both teams are looking to make their mark and continue their strong performances.

Team Records & Rankings

Heading into the postseason, both teams have had impressive campaigns. Northgate (14-6 overall, 8-2 in league play) ranks 228th nationally, 121st in California, and 10th in their section. Their offense has been a key factor in their success, averaging 24.0 points per game. In comparison, Las Lomas (17-5 overall, 10-2 in league) is ranked 348th nationally, 178th in California, and 17th in their section. They boast a solid 18.4 points per game and have proven their ability to win both at home and on the road, showing a balanced game on both sides of the ball.

Scoring Breakdown

In terms of scoring, Northgate has had a solid offensive output, particularly in the later quarters, averaging 24.0 points per game, while Las Lomas has had more of a spread-out scoring distribution, averaging 1.2 points in the first quarter and slightly more in the second, third, and fourth. Their ability to score consistently throughout the game has been a key to their success, though they will need to maintain that momentum against the high-powered Northgate offense.

Key Matchup: Playoff Preview

Both teams have demonstrated their skill throughout the season, with Las Lomas edging out Northgate in their previous matchup, 21-20. Despite the close loss, Northgate has had a strong overall performance, including solid victories over tough opponents like Campolindo and Alhambra. Las Lomas, however, has managed to outplay Northgate in key areas, including a dominant win over Ygnacio Valley and a strong overall record against common opponents.

Team Stats Comparison

• Northgate averages 81.5 rushing yards, 143.6 passing yards, and a total of 225.0 yards per game. On defense, they average 19.8 tackles per game, with key players like Anjali Huber leading the way with impressive individual stats—39.6 rushing yards per game, 77.6 passing yards, and 145.2 total yards per game. Sadie Hansell contributes significantly with 38.4 receiving yards per game and 8.5 points per game.
• Las Lomas, while a bit less dominant in rushing and passing yards per game, has a balanced team effort with a strong defense. They have posted a solid 143.6 yards through the air, and their defense has held teams to an average of just 244 points against them this season.

Common Opponents

Both teams have had success against several common opponents this season. Northgate boasts a 7-3 record against shared teams, while Las Lomas has a slightly better 8-2 record. In matchups against teams like Campolindo, Alhambra, and Clayton Valley Charter, both squads have shown their ability to execute in high-pressure games. However, the difference in their overall performance against these teams could provide valuable insight into their playoff showdown.

Conclusion: Playoff Implications

As the Northgate Knights and Las Lomas Knights prepare for their playoff meeting today, all eyes will be on the outcome of this intense rivalry. With Las Lomas having secured a close victory in their last encounter, Northgate will look to avenge that loss, drawing from their strong overall record and key players like Huber and Hansell. For Las Lomas, maintaining consistency and capitalizing on their balanced offensive attack will be crucial for securing a playoff win.

The game promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams having the talent to emerge victorious. Fans of Walnut Creek flag football will not want to miss this exciting showdown between two of the area’s top teams.