The Liberty Christian (Richland, WA) varsity football team will face Almira-Coulee-Hartline (Coulee City, WA) in a neutral-site playoff game today at 1:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Washington High School Football
Who: Liberty Christian vs Almira-Coulee-Hartline
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1:00. p.m. ET
“2024 Football Washington State Championships – 1B State Football”
Live stream: Watch here
Football Powerhouses: Almira-Coulee-Hartline vs. Liberty Christian – A 2024-2025 Season Showdown
As the 2024-2025 football season progresses, two teams in Washington state have emerged as dominant forces: Watch ON Almira-Coulee-Hartline (ACH) and Liberty Christian (LCHS). Both teams have displayed exceptional skill on the field, each compiling impressive records and claiming significant victories. As they look toward the postseason, the question remains: which team will come out on top?
Almira-Coulee-Hartline (ACH) – A Strong Contender
The Almira-Coulee-Hartline (ACH) football team has been a formidable force this season, posting a 10-2 record. With a powerful offense and a defense that continues to improve, ACH has proved itself worthy of attention. The team is currently ranked 282nd nationally and 3rd in Washington’s class rankings.
The Cougars have put up solid statistics across the board. On offense, they average 45.7 points per game (PPG), with an impressive 271.8 rushing yards per game, largely thanks to standout player Carter Pitts, who leads the team with 85.9 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Caden Correia has been a reliable leader, passing for 94.2 yards per game and contributing significantly to the team’s total yardage.
Defensively, ACH boasts 61.3 tackles per game, with Harvest Parrish leading the team in tackles at 8.2 per game. Though their defense has been solid, they will need to step up in key moments, especially in the postseason.
ACH’s record this season includes a district performance of 2-1, with a 7-1 home record and 3-1 away. Their recent win against Neah Bay (14-12) in the playoffs was a highlight, showcasing their resilience under pressure.
Liberty Christian (LCHS) – The Undefeated Giants
On the other side of the field stands Liberty Christian, an undefeated powerhouse with an 11-0 record. Ranked 103rd nationally and 1st in their class, LCHS has proven themselves as one of the top teams in Washington. Their offense has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging an impressive 64.0 PPG, fueled by quarterback Perry Pottle, who has thrown for 152.6 yards per game, and running back Charlie Branning, who leads the team with 128.0 rushing yards per game.
The defense for Liberty Christian is equally as strong, averaging 65.9 tackles per game, with Addison Lyle leading the team in tackles at 10.8 per game. While LCHS’s defense has given up fewer yards than ACH’s, their offensive dominance remains the primary reason behind their perfect record.
LCHS has been dominant across all aspects of the game. They’ve gone undefeated in district play with a 5-0 record and have been just as strong in non-league games, posting a 3-0 record on the road. Their win against Almira-Coulee-Hartline on September 20, 2024, was a statement victory, winning 50-36 despite a competitive effort from ACH.
Head-to-Head – Liberty Christian Takes the Lead
In their lone meeting this season, Liberty Christian bested Almira-Coulee-Hartline 50-36. The game, played on September 20, 2024, saw LCHS jump out to a commanding 14-8 first-quarter lead and never looked back, taking a 36-16 lead by halftime. Though ACH mounted a rally in the third quarter, scoring 20 points, they ultimately ran out of steam in the final frame. Liberty Christian’s balanced offense and strong defensive performance ensured their victory.
Key Stats Comparison
When comparing the two teams’ statistics, it’s clear both have strengths, but Liberty Christian’s offensive firepower gives them an edge.
| Stat | Almira-Coulee-Hartline | Liberty Christian |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 271.8 | 238.2 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 95.1 | 182.0 |
| Total Yards/Game | 366.8 | 420.2 |
| Tackles/Game | 61.3 | 65.9 |
| Sacks/Game | 4.4 | 2.3 |
| Points/Game | 45.7 | 64.0 |
Looking Ahead – Playoff Push
As the postseason approaches, both teams are eyeing a championship. While Liberty Christian enters the playoffs undefeated and as the clear favorite, Almira-Coulee-Hartline’s solid all-around game and gritty defense could make them a dangerous underdog. Both teams share common opponents, including victories over Neah Bay and Garfield-Palouse, but Liberty Christian’s higher point production and undefeated record make them the more complete team overall.
While Almira-Coulee-Hartline will look to avenge their earlier loss and capitalize on their run-heavy attack, Liberty Christian’s explosive offense led by Pottle and Branning may prove too much for ACH’s defense. This upcoming matchup will certainly be one to watch as both teams fight for state glory.
Conclusion
The stage is set for an exciting playoff battle between two powerhouse teams. Liberty Christian has proven themselves to be an elite team this season, while Almira-Coulee-Hartline has the potential to pull off an upset. It will be a thrilling postseason as both teams aim to claim the title, with Liberty Christian holding the advantage going into the next round, but never underestimating the resilience of ACH.
