The Thomas Jefferson High School (Richmond, VA) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Kettle Run High School (Nokesville, VA) on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Thomas Jefferson vs Kettle Run
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 3 “
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Clash of Titans: Kettle Run vs. Thomas Jefferson – A Season of Dominance
As the 2024-25 high school football season unfolds, two powerhouse teams have emerged as juggernauts in Virginia’s football landscape: Kettle Run and Thomas Jefferson. Both teams have delivered undefeated seasons, setting the stage for a potential showdown that could become one for the ages. Let’s break down their stellar performances, key statistics, and what makes each team a force to be reckoned with. Watch on
Season Overview: Unstoppable Forces
| Team | Record | Region Record | Home Record | Away Record | Points Scored | Points Allowed | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kettle Run | 13-0 | 10-0 | 8-0 | 5-0 | 595 | 188 | 100% |
| Thomas Jefferson | 12-0 | 5-0 | 4-0 | 8-0 | 535 | 53 | 100% |
Kettle Run boasts an impressive 595 points scored, allowing only 188, demonstrating dominance on both sides of the ball. Thomas Jefferson, while scoring slightly fewer points at 535, has been a defensive juggernaut, allowing a mere 53 points all season, showcasing a suffocating defense.
Team Scoring Averages: Strength in Every Quarter
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final Score Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kettle Run | 19.3 | 15.5 | 8.5 | 4.5 | 45.8 |
| Thomas Jefferson | 8.8 | 13.5 | 10.3 | 9.3 | 44.6 |
Kettle Run’s explosive first-quarter scoring (19.3 PPG) sets the tone early, while Thomas Jefferson’s balanced approach shows consistent scoring across all quarters, particularly strengthening in the second half.
Offensive Comparisons: Ground vs. Air
| Category | Kettle Run | Thomas Jefferson |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 158.7 | 253.8 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 189.5 | 186.7 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 348.2 | 440.5 |
| Points Per Game | 39.6 | 45.2 |
Thomas Jefferson thrives in the run game, averaging an impressive 253.8 rushing yards per game, spearheaded by Rashaud Cherry, who leads with 95.4 yards per game. Kettle Run counters with a balanced attack, highlighted by Jacob Mulhern’s passing prowess at 213.6 yards per game.
Defensive Dominance: Tackles and Sacks
| Category | Kettle Run | Thomas Jefferson |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles Per Game | 39.5 | 64.2 |
| Sacks Per Game | 2.3 | 4.1 |
Thomas Jefferson’s defense excels with 64.2 tackles per game and 4.1 sacks per game, anchored by Kai Thompson (10.6 tackles per game) and Isaiah Brown (1.0 sacks per game). Kettle Run’s Jayden Booth contributes solid defensive performances with 5 tackles per game.
Key Players to Watch
- Kettle Run:
- Jacob Mulhern (QB): 213.6 passing yards per game.
- Colton Quaker (RB): 84.9 rushing yards per game.
- Zach Roth (WR): 61.6 receiving yards per game.
- Thomas Jefferson:
- Rashaud Cherry (QB/RB): 176.5 passing and 95.4 rushing yards per game.
- Amare’ Gough (WR): 62.8 receiving yards per game.
- Zavier Artis: Dominant with 32 pancake blocks.
Common Opponents: A Tale of Two Outcomes
| Opponent | Kettle Run Result | Thomas Jefferson Result |
|---|---|---|
| Skyline | W, 62-0 | W, 38-7 |
| Armstrong (Kennedy) | W, 36-34 | W, 28-14 |
Both teams defeated common opponents convincingly, with Kettle Run showcasing offensive firepower and Thomas Jefferson leveraging defensive resilience.
Conclusion: A Potential Classic Awaits
With perfect seasons on the line, Kettle Run’s offensive versatility clashes with Thomas Jefferson’s defensive dominance. Each team brings unique strengths that could tip the balance in a matchup for the ages. Whether it’s Kettle Run’s dynamic passing attack or Thomas Jefferson’s bruising ground game, fans are sure to witness an epic battle between two unbeaten giants.
