The Madison Southern (Berea, KY) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Pulaski County (Somerset, KY) on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m.
What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Madison Southern (KY) vs Pulaski County (KY)
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Kentucky High School Football Playoff Brackets: KHSAA – Class 5A
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
Pulaski County vs. Madison Southern: A High-Stakes Playoff Showdown
On Friday, November 15, Pulaski County (Somerset, KY) and Madison Southern (Berea, KY) will square off in a highly anticipated neutral-site playoff game at 7:30 p.m. The matchup promises to deliver thrilling action, as both teams have had contrasting seasons but share a few common threads. Here’s a look at how both teams measure up and what to expect in this crucial playoff contest.
Team Overview: Pulaski County (7-4) vs. Madison Southern (5-6)
Pulaski County comes into the game with a 7-4 overall record. The Maroons have dominated their district, going a perfect 4-0 in district play. They have been especially strong at home with a 4-1 record. Pulaski County boasts an impressive offensive unit, scoring an average of 36.4 points per game, driven by strong performances in the final quarters, where they average 17.8 points.
Madison Southern, on the other hand, has struggled a bit more this season, posting a 5-6 overall record. Despite a solid 2-1 district record, the Eagles have been inconsistent at times, especially on the road, where they are 2-3. Madison Southern has been averaging just 22.5 points per game, with a particularly low output in the second and fourth quarters, where they struggle to find their rhythm.
Scoring Trends: Pulaski County’s Strong Finish vs. Madison Southern’s Struggles
One of the key differences between the two teams is their scoring distribution. Pulaski County tends to finish strong, scoring a whopping 17.8 points in the fourth quarter alone. In comparison, Madison Southern has averaged just 2.0 points in the final quarter of games, highlighting a potential vulnerability for the Eagles if they fall behind late.
The Maroons have a more balanced offensive attack, averaging 7.0 points in the first quarter and 8.8 in the second. Their ability to finish games strong will be a major factor in determining the outcome of this playoff contest.
Common Opponents: A Shared History
Both teams have faced a similar slate of opponents this season, with a mixed record. Pulaski County holds a 2-1 record against common opponents, while Madison Southern has also gone 2-1. Here’s a breakdown of their shared matchups:
- South Laurel: Pulaski County triumphed with a dominant 49-7 victory, while Madison Southern won 42-28.
- Madison Central: Pulaski County lost a close game, 28-24, while Madison Southern suffered a much larger defeat, 36-0.
- West Jessamine: Pulaski County secured a decisive 35-0 victory, while Madison Southern had a 47-14 win.
This record shows that both teams have had some success against similar opposition, though Pulaski County has generally performed more consistently, particularly in non-district matchups.
Playoff Experience and Home Advantage
The game will be played at a neutral site, meaning neither team will have the distinct advantage of a home crowd. However, Pulaski County has been solid in playoff settings, with a 1-0 record in such games this season, while Madison Southern is also undefeated in their playoff appearances. This neutral setting could level the playing field, but Pulaski’s overall better performance in league play might give them a slight edge.
Key Factors for Success
- Pulaski County’s Offensive Firepower: The Maroons’ ability to put up big numbers, particularly late in games, will be crucial. Madison Southern will need to find a way to contain their offensive attack, especially in the second half.
- Madison Southern’s Consistency: For the Eagles to pull off the upset, they will need to sustain offensive drives throughout the game. Limiting turnovers and finding ways to generate points in the second and fourth quarters will be key to keeping the game close.
- Defensive Matchups: Both teams will need to find ways to stifle each other’s offense. Pulaski County has allowed an average of 17.3 points per game, while Madison Southern has given up 28.5. Defensive adjustments, particularly against strong second-half performances by Pulaski County, will play a crucial role in the outcome.
Conclusion
This neutral-site playoff game promises to be a thrilling battle between two teams with a lot to prove. Pulaski County will enter the contest as the favorite, thanks to a stronger overall record and potent offensive attack. However, Madison Southern has the potential to pull off the upset if they can find consistency and capitalize on their opportunities. Expect an exciting matchup when the Maroons and Eagles take the field this Friday night!
