The Longview (TX) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Naaman Forest (Garland, TX) on Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m. at Longview High School. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Football Conference 6A Division 2” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Longview vs Naaman Forest
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 6A D2
Watch here:Watch here

Game preview: Longview vs Naaman Forest

As the high school football season winds down, all eyes are set on an intriguing showdown between Naaman Forest and Longview. With both teams bringing distinct strengths and contrasting styles to the field, this game promises to be a test of offensive firepower, defensive grit, and strategic coaching.

Season Records and Rankings

Naaman Forest comes into this matchup with a balanced record of 5-5 overall and 4-4 in district play. Despite a solid .500 winning percentage, the Rangers have struggled on the road, going 0-4 away from home but a strong 5-1 at home. They’ve tallied 276 points this season while conceding 242, underscoring a season of tight battles. Naaman Forest’s state ranking sits at 147, with a section ranking of 387.

Longview, on the other hand, has enjoyed a much more successful season. The Lobos boast an impressive 8-2 overall record, including a perfect 6-0 run in district play. Their defense has been rock-solid, allowing only 157 points compared to their potent offense, which has racked up 316 points. Longview’s consistency has earned them a top-tier state ranking of 11 and a section rank of 12.

Scoring Patterns

When it comes to scoring, Longview has been dominant, particularly in the early quarters. The Lobos average 12.3 points in the first quarter and 12.8 in the second, giving them a strong halftime cushion. They average 31.6 points per game, with a slight taper in offensive output in the second half.

Naaman Forest, meanwhile, has shown steadier scoring through four quarters, averaging 27.6 points per game. They tend to start slower, with just 4.0 points in the first quarter, before building momentum with 6.7 and 6.0 points in the second and third quarters, respectively.

Offensive and Defensive Comparison

The battle on the ground will be fierce, as both teams have impressive rushing attacks. Naaman Forest averages 213.7 rushing yards per game, complemented by 203.7 passing yards. This balanced offense yields an impressive 417.4 total yards per game, outpacing Longview’s 362.0 yards.

Longview’s offense is more run-heavy, averaging a formidable 262.3 rushing yards, led by standout Kelvin Washington, who puts up an astounding 202.5 rushing yards per game. Passing is less of a focus, with the Lobos managing 99.7 passing yards per game.

On defense, Longview stands out. The Lobos average 76.3 tackles per game and have a stronger presence in the trenches with 2.2 sacks per contest. Naaman Forest counters with 69.1 tackles and a slightly higher sack rate of 2.9 per game.

Key Players to Watch

Naaman Forest’s offensive leader, DeAngelo Perales, has been exceptional, contributing heavily with 203.7 passing yards and 80.8 rushing yards per game, totaling 284.5 yards. Wide receiver Braylon Deal adds another dimension with 76.6 receiving yards per game. On defense, Ali Vinson leads with 12.2 tackles per game and provides a pass-rushing presence.

For Longview, Kelvin Washington is the heart of their offense. Averaging 202.5 rushing yards and 12.0 points per game, he is a constant threat to break off big plays. Quarterback Maverick Rowe, while not prolific, efficiently manages the game with 88.8 passing yards per game. Defensively, Kason Brooks contributes 10.8 tackles per game, and Isaiah Horton leads with 1.0 sacks per game.

Tale of the Tape

• Naaman Forest: 417.4 total yards per game, 27.6 points per game.
• Longview: 362.0 total yards per game, 31.6 points per game.

Longview’s home-field advantage (5-0 at home) and perfect district record underscore their dominance, while Naaman Forest’s road struggles present a challenge. The game will likely come down to Longview’s ability to slow down Perales and Naaman Forest’s defense trying to contain Washington’s relentless rushing attack.

Final Thoughts

With Longview riding high and Naaman Forest looking to pull off an upset, fans can expect a game packed with intensity, strategy, and standout individual performances. Can Naaman Forest overcome their road woes, or will Longview continue their stellar run in front of their home crowd? Football enthusiasts won’t want to miss this thrilling matchup.