The Manheim Township varsity football team (Lancaster, PA) will host Harrisburg (PA) in a non-conference game today at 7 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Manheim Township vs Harrisburg
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 5A
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Game preview: Manheim Township vs Harrisburg
As the high school football season intensifies, two powerhouse teams stand poised for a thrilling showdown. Harrisburg and Manheim Township both enter with impressive records, but their paths to this point have been distinct.
Harrisburg’s Strong Campaign
With a 9-2 overall record, Harrisburg has proven to be a formidable force in their league, boasting an 8-1 conference record. The Cougars have demonstrated a balanced approach to offense, averaging 30.3 points per game with a particularly strong performance in the latter halves of games, averaging 8.6 points in the fourth quarter. Led by star player Messiah Mickens, who has rushed for 85.8 yards per game, Harrisburg has built an offensive attack that mixes up both the ground and aerial game. Quarterback Jaiyon Lewis has thrown for 141.8 yards per game, supporting a well-rounded offense.
Defensively, Harrisburg has been solid, with a strong 63.8 tackles per game average. Mickens, who also excels defensively with 1.2 sacks per game, adds depth to the team’s all-around game. The Cougars’ defense has helped them stay competitive, limiting opponents to an average of 172 points.
Manheim Township’s Dominance
Manheim Township, with a 10-1 record and an 8-0 conference mark, has been one of the top teams in the state. Averaging 34.7 points per game, the Blue Streaks have been dominant offensively, especially in the first two quarters, where they average a combined 24.4 points. Star running back Declan Clancy leads the way, rushing for 158.4 yards per game, and has been a constant threat in both the ground and air game, with quarterback Carson Weisser adding 159.5 passing yards per game. Manheim Township’s offense has been exceptional in its ability to exploit defenses, regularly posting high-scoring performances.
On defense, Manheim Township has remained effective, with 56.1 tackles per game. Clancy, known for his all-around ability, also excels defensively and has helped the Blue Streaks limit opponents to only 110 points on the season.
Comparing the Teams
Both teams have impressive stats, but some key differences set them apart. Harrisburg has a slightly better rushing attack (196 yards per game compared to Manheim Township’s 194) but is outpaced in passing yards (149.2 to Manheim Township’s 174.2). Harrisburg’s defense averages more tackles per game (63.8 to 56.1), but Manheim Township has the edge in total yards per game, averaging 368.2 to Harrisburg’s 345.2.
Common Opponents
The teams share a common opponent in Cumberland Valley. Harrisburg lost a close match to them 24-21, while Manheim Township triumphed 42-14 in their first meeting and went on to win again 14-7 in their most recent faceoff.
Playoff Push
Harrisburg and Manheim Township have both proven they are playoff contenders, and with both teams having strong postseason potential, this game is poised to be a preview of what’s to come in the playoffs.
As the season enters its final stretch, both Harrisburg and Manheim Township will be looking to fine-tune their strengths and improve on any weaknesses. The excitement of this matchup lies in the contrasting styles of both teams, with Harrisburg’s well-balanced attack facing off against Manheim Township’s high-powered offense. Fans can expect an unforgettable game filled with explosive plays and strategic defense.
Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell, but both teams are ready to make their mark.
