The Poplarville (MS) varsity football team will face Louisville (MS) in a neutral playoff game on Saturday, December 7, at 3:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Louisville vs. Poplarville
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Louisville vs. Poplarville

This high-stakes playoff clash features two top Mississippi teams: Louisville Wildcats (13-1) and Poplarville Hornets (12-2). Both squads bring strong resumes and dynamic playmakers to the table, making for a thrilling matchup.

Season Recap: Louisville Wildcats

• Record: 13-1
• District Record: 4-0
• Points For/Against: 491 PF, 164 PA
• Scoring Average: 35.1 points per game

The Wildcats have had a dominant season with a near-perfect record. Offensively, the team thrives on the ground, averaging 219.5 rushing yards per game. Star running back Zaiden Jernigan is a consistent force, averaging 115.5 rushing yards and 11.5 points per game. Quarterback Xavier Hunt complements the run game with 105.0 passing yards per game, keeping defenses honest. Defensively, Louisville’s front seven, led by Corxavier Coleman (10.4 tackles per game) and Tayquon McKinney (0.9 sacks per game), has been suffocating, allowing just 164 points all season.

Season Recap: Poplarville Hornets

• Record: 12-2
• District Record: 3-1
• Points For/Against: 395 PF, 306 PA
• Scoring Average: 28.3 points per game

Poplarville has leaned heavily on a strong rushing attack, averaging 268.7 rushing yards per game. Running back Tylan Keys has been the centerpiece, racking up 108.8 rushing yards per game and 9.0 points per game. Quarterback Sydney Blackmon is efficient when called upon, though the passing game contributes just 66.6 yards per game. Defensively, Ayden Harmon (8.6 tackles per game) anchors the Hornets, while the team focuses on limiting big plays. However, with 306 points allowed, the defense will need to step up to slow down Louisville’s potent offense.

Key Matchups

1. Rushing Offenses:
   • Louisville: Zaiden Jernigan has been the workhorse for the Wildcats, and their offensive line, led by Gregory Jernigan (16 pancake blocks), creates consistent opportunities. Louisville’s ability to control the clock with their run game will be a significant factor.
   • Poplarville: The Hornets counter with Tylan Keys, a versatile rusher who can break tackles and create explosive plays. If Keys gets into a rhythm, Poplarville could exploit gaps in Louisville’s defense.
2. Quarterback Play:
   • Louisville: Xavier Hunt’s passing ability provides balance, with wideout Kameron Triplett (52.4 receiving yards per game) as his primary target. Hunt’s dual-threat capability could pose problems for Poplarville.
   • Poplarville: Sydney Blackmon will need to make timely throws to keep Louisville’s defense honest. While not the focal point of the offense, his efficiency could be the X-factor.
3. Defense and Tackling:
   • Louisville: Corxavier Coleman’s ability to read plays and lead the defense will be critical in stopping Poplarville’s rushing attack. The Wildcats have been consistent in making key stops all season.
   • Poplarville: Ayden Harmon and the Hornets’ defense will need to step up and force turnovers to limit Louisville’s offensive opportunities.

Common Opponent

Both teams defeated Mendenhall, but Louisville’s 28-20 win was more convincing than Poplarville’s 27-26 nail-biter. This suggests Louisville may have an edge in head-to-head strength.

Scoring Trends

• Louisville: The Wildcats dominate late, averaging 12.6 points in the fourth quarter, showing they are a strong finishing team. Their ability to close out games could be decisive.
• Poplarville: The Hornets score more consistently throughout the game but lack a dominant scoring quarter. They’ll need to stay ahead early to avoid Louisville’s late-game surge.

Prediction:

While Poplarville’s rushing attack is impressive, Louisville’s balance on offense, strong defense, and ability to close games give them the upper hand. Expect a competitive game, but the Wildcats’ experience and depth should prevail.