The Ralston Valley varsity football team will host Legend from Parker, CO, in a home playoff game today at 12 p.m. at Ralston Valley. This matchup is part of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class 5A tournament.
Legend vs Ralston Valley High School Football Game Info:
What: Colorado High School Football
Who: Legend vs RVHS
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 12:00pm
Bracket: 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class 5A
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Legend vs Ralston Valley
In a highly anticipated playoff matchup, the Ralston Valley (Arvada, CO) varsity football team will host Legend (Parker, CO) today at 12 p.m. at Ralston Valley High School. This game is a crucial part of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs in the Class 5A tournament.
Both teams come into the game with identical overall records of 10-1, and they have each dominated their respective leagues with perfect 5-0 marks. These two powerhouse teams have earned their spots as top contenders in the state, with Legend ranking 4th and Ralston Valley 6th in the latest standings.
Strong Seasons for Both Teams
Legend has put together a stellar season with an impressive overall win percentage of .909. The team has been consistently dominant on both sides of the ball, averaging 35.0 points per game while allowing only 67 points all season. Their offense is powered by running back Jaden Lawrence, who averages 84.6 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Nicholas Farley, who has passed for over 80 yards per game.
Ralston Valley, also boasting a .909 win percentage, has matched Legend’s dominance with their own strong offense and defense. The Mustangs have averaged 29.4 points per game and racked up over 380 total yards per game. Their offense is led by quarterback Zeke Andrews, who has thrown for 208.4 yards per game, and receiver Nico Benallo, who averages 68.3 receiving yards per game. Defensively, Matt Gates has led the charge with 11.0 tackles per game.
Comparing the Stats
While both teams have similarly strong offensive and defensive numbers, Legend has the edge in rushing yards per game with 215.1 compared to Ralston Valley’s 173.2. However, the Mustangs have proven to be more effective in the passing game, averaging 208.4 passing yards per game compared to Legend’s 118.3. Both teams have shown balance, with Ralston Valley averaging more total yards per game (381.5) than Legend (333.4), but both teams excel at limiting their opponents’ scoring, with Ralston Valley allowing only 173 points this season and Legend allowing just 67.
Key Players to Watch
For Legend, Jaden Lawrence’s powerful running game and Nicholas Farley’s efficient passing will be key to their offensive attack. On defense, look for linebacker John Niedringhaus to disrupt Ralston Valley’s offense.
For Ralston Valley, Zeke Andrews will look to guide his team to victory through the air, while Bryson Diebel’s strong rushing performance will provide balance. Defensively, Matt Gates will be tasked with leading the charge against Legend’s high-scoring offense.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced some of the same competition this season. Legend split its games against Columbine and Grandview, while Ralston Valley defeated both teams, including a thrilling 35-34 victory over Columbine. This shared experience could provide valuable insights as both teams prepare for their playoff showdown.
What’s at Stake
This game will not only determine who advances to the next round of the playoffs but also solidify which team will be the stronger contender moving forward. With both teams showcasing strong all-around performances, fans can expect an intense and closely contested game.
Conclusion
With both teams boasting strong records, potent offenses, and solid defenses, this playoff clash is sure to be an exciting and high-stakes contest. The matchup between Ralston Valley and Legend will be one to watch as both teams vie for a spot in the next round of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class 5A. Don’t miss this thrilling game at 12 p.m. today at Ralston Valley High School.
