The Madera (CA) varsity football team is set to host a home playoff game against Kerman (CA) on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 CIF Central Section Football Championships in Division III, promising an exciting showdown as both teams vie for advancement.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: California State High School Football Playoff
Who: Madera (CA) vs Kerman (CA)
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 CIF Central Section Football Championships – Division III
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Kerman vs. Madera
The CIF Central Section Division III playoffs bring an exciting clash as the Kerman Lions (11-2) face off against the Madera Coyotes (8-4) on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM. Both teams have shown impressive performances this season, setting the stage for a thrilling postseason battle.
Team Records and Rankings
Kerman enters the game ranked 198th in California and 22nd in the Central Section, with a stellar .846 overall win percentage. The Lions excelled in league play with a 3-1 record and performed strongly both at home (5-1) and on the road (6-1). Their defensive consistency has been a highlight, as they’ve allowed only 203 points while scoring 467.
Madera, ranked 214th in California and 25th in the section, comes in with an 8-4 record and a .667 win percentage. While their league record is 2-3, the Coyotes have been dominant at home, winning six of eight games. Offensively, they’ve been prolific, scoring 486 points this season, though their defense has been tested, allowing 332 points.
Scoring Trends
The Lions and Coyotes have distinct scoring patterns, adding intrigue to the matchup. Kerman averages 35.9 points per game, with their highest production in the first half (8.6 points in Q1 and 10 in Q2). Their scoring slows in the fourth quarter, averaging just 4.5 points, a potential vulnerability late in the game.
Madera, however, is known for their second-half explosiveness, averaging 40.5 points per game overall. While they start slowly with just 5.3 points in Q1, they ramp up their scoring in the third quarter, posting a game-high average of 15.5 points. Their ability to finish strong, with 10.5 points in the fourth quarter, could play a decisive role.
What to Watch For
Kerman’s defense will need to contain Madera’s second-half surge to maintain control of the game. At the same time, Madera must find a way to counter Kerman’s balanced scoring attack, particularly in the first half. Home-field advantage may give the Coyotes an edge, but the Lions’ consistency on both sides of the ball makes them a formidable opponent.
As these two teams take the field, fans can expect an intense, competitive game where every play matters. Both squads have shown they’re capable of postseason success, making this playoff matchup one to watch.
Team Statistics
Offense
- Kerman Lions:
Known for their explosive offense, the Lions average an impressive 396.2 total yards per game, fueled by a balanced attack of 142.6 rushing yards and 253.6 passing yards per game. Their ability to execute in the air and on the ground has resulted in a strong scoring average of 35.4 points per game. - Madera Coyotes:
The Coyotes have leaned slightly more on their ground game, averaging 163.8 rushing yards per game, supported by 166.8 passing yards per game. Their total offensive output of 330.5 yards per game and 32.4 points per game reflects a disciplined and effective approach.
Defense
- While Kerman’s defensive statistics aren’t fully detailed, Madera’s defense is spearheaded by Josue Madrigales (#26), who averages an impressive 11.5 tackles per game and contributes 0.5 sacks per game. Madera has shown they can disrupt opponents and make crucial stops in key moments.
Team Leaders
- Kerman Lions:
- Julien Velez (#1): The workhorse of Kerman’s backfield, Velez averages 80.8 rushing yards per game and contributes 9.4 points per game.
- Adrian Torres (#10): One of the standout quarterbacks in the state, Torres averages a phenomenal 248.2 passing yards per game and leads his team with 263.8 total yards per game.
- Isaiah Quinto (#5): Torres’ top target, Quinto, averages 46.3 receiving yards per game, making him a reliable option in Kerman’s passing attack.
Common Opponents
Both teams share three common opponents—Torres, Justin Garza, and another rival—offering insights into their competitive performances:
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Kerman Lions:
- Dominated Torres in a 37-7 victory.
- Split games against Justin Garza, losing 33-31 in the regular season but avenging it with a thrilling 35-34 playoff win.
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Madera Coyotes:
- Posted a resounding 52-7 win over Torres.
- Handled Justin Garza with a decisive 53-34 victory in their lone encounter.
Both teams have shown their mettle, but Kerman’s ability to bounce back against Justin Garza in a high-stakes playoff game underscores their resilience and adaptability.
Record Breakdown
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Kerman Lions:
Kerman’s 11-2 overall record is bolstered by an unbeaten 3-0 playoff record and strong performances at home (5-1) and on the road (6-1). Their lone two losses came in close contests, highlighting their ability to compete in high-pressure situations.
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Madera Coyotes:
Madera boasts an 8-4 overall record, with a solid 6-2 home record and 2-0 playoff record. Though their league record is a modest 2-3, their ability to excel in non-league play (4-1) and the postseason shows they can rise to the occasion.
Key Matchups
- Adrian Torres (Kerman) vs. Madera’s Secondary:
Torres’ passing proficiency will be a challenge for Madera’s defense. How the Coyotes manage to contain him could be a game-defining factor. - Blake Burton (Madera) vs. Kerman’s Front Seven:
Burton’s dominance on the ground will be key to Madera controlling the clock and tempo. Kerman’s defensive line will need to step up to neutralize his impact. - Battle in the Trenches:
Kerman’s offensive line, which has recorded 54 pancake blocks, led by Jorge Vargas (#64) with 14, has been a significant strength. Madera will need to counter this physicality to disrupt Kerman’s rhythm.
Prediction
This matchup promises to be a battle of strengths: Kerman’s explosive offense versus Madera’s balanced attack and defensive tenacity. Kerman’s versatility, led by Adrian Torres, gives them a slight edge, but Madera’s Blake Burton and Josue Madrigales can turn the tide if they seize critical moments. Expect a close, high-scoring contest where turnovers and execution in the red zone could make all the difference.
