The Loudoun County High School (Leesburg, VA) varsity football team is hosting a home playoff game against Heritage High School (Leesburg, VA) today at 7 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Loudoun County vs Heritage
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 4”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

High School Football Showdown: Heritage vs. Loudoun County

As the high school football season reaches its climax, the matchup between Heritage and Loudoun County is one to watch closely. With both teams coming into the game with contrasting records, it promises to be an exciting contest. Let’s break down the teams, their stats, and what to expect when these two Leesburg rivals face off on the gridiron.

Team Overview

Heritage enters this playoff game with a 4-6 overall record, which includes a 2-2 mark in the region. The team has struggled in both home and away games, posting a 2-3 record in both categories. Heritage has shown signs of promise in their offense, scoring an average of 27.7 points per game, but they have also faced challenges, allowing 31.9 points per game to their opponents.

Loudoun County, on the other hand, has had a strong season, finishing with a 7-3 record overall and a 3-1 mark in the region. They’ve performed impressively both at home (4-1) and on the road (3-2). Loudoun County has been more consistent offensively, averaging 30.1 points per game while keeping their opponents to just 23.2 points on average.

Recent Matchup

The teams met earlier in the season on November 8, where Loudoun County triumphed with a commanding 48-28 victory over Heritage. The game saw Loudoun County’s offense click on all cylinders, and they will certainly carry that confidence into this playoff clash.

Statistical Breakdown

Looking at the team statistics, Loudoun County holds a noticeable advantage in overall team performance. Here are some key stats:

• Rushing Yards: Heritage relies heavily on the run game, averaging 195.4 rushing yards per game. Colin Mihelic, Heritage’s leading rusher, has been particularly dominant, contributing 101.6 rushing yards per game. In comparison, Loudoun County’s rushing stats are not detailed, but they have managed to control the ball effectively throughout the season.
• Passing Yards: Heritage averages 41.3 passing yards per game, led by Mason Holst’s 63.8 yards per game. This is a weak spot in their offense, as they struggle to move the ball through the air. Loudoun County has been more balanced but hasn’t relied heavily on passing.
• Total Yards: Heritage averages 236.7 total yards per game, while Loudoun County’s total offensive production has been stronger, reflected in their ability to score an average of 30.1 points per game.
• Tackles and Defense: Heritage’s defense has struggled, averaging only 35 tackles per game and 1.6 sacks per game. Loudoun County has been more effective defensively, holding their opponents to fewer points and playing tough in critical moments.

Key Players to Watch

• Colin Mihelic (Heritage): As the team’s leading rusher and overall offensive standout, Mihelic will be critical in helping Heritage control the clock and sustain drives. He has also contributed in other facets of the game, leading his team in total yards and points.
• Ericson Kudee (Heritage): A key defensive player for Heritage, Kudee has been a standout with 8.0 tackles per game. His ability to disrupt Loudoun County’s offensive rhythm will be vital for Heritage’s defense.
• Michael Juliano (Heritage): A solid defensive presence with 0.7 sacks per game, Juliano will need to put pressure on Loudoun County’s quarterbacks to slow down their offensive attack.

Common Opponents

Both teams faced several common opponents this season, and the results offer some insight into their relative strengths. Heritage struggled in their matchups against teams like Tuscarora, Riverside, and Woodgrove, managing only two wins in these contests. Loudoun County, however, had a much stronger performance, finishing 5-2 in games against these same teams, with victories over Riverside, Woodgrove, and Dominion.

What to Expect

With Loudoun County coming off a dominant win against Heritage earlier in the season, they’ll likely enter the game with confidence and momentum. Their balanced offense and solid defense give them a clear edge over Heritage, especially considering the defensive challenges the latter has faced.

However, Heritage isn’t to be underestimated. The team will rely on their strong running game, led by Mihelic, to keep the game close and control the clock. If they can limit turnovers and capitalize on Loudoun County’s mistakes, they might have a chance to pull off an upset.

This playoff game will likely be a battle of contrasting styles: Loudoun County’s well-rounded, efficient offense against Heritage’s ground game. The outcome will hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively and make fewer mistakes.

Final Thoughts

With both teams having something to prove, this rivalry game will be one of the most exciting matchups of the playoffs. Loudoun County’s recent success and overall superior record make them the favorites, but Heritage’s fighting spirit and strong individual performances could turn the tide in their favor. This is one game that fans won’t want to miss.