The Marist varsity football team from Eugene, OR, will host a playoff game against Stayton, OR, on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSAA – 4A” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Oregon High School Football
Who: Marist vs Stayton
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSAA – 4A
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Game preview: Marist vs Stayton

As the Oregon high school football playoffs heat up, the Stayton Eagles (8-3) face a formidable challenge in a rematch against the Marist Spartans (9-1) on Friday, November 15, at 7 PM in Eugene. The stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams, with a berth in the next playoff round on the line.

The Tale of the Tape

On paper, Marist enters the matchup as the heavy favorite. Ranked 14th in the state and first in their class, the Spartans boast an impressive 9-1 record, including an undefeated 5-0 performance in league play. With a staggering 387 points scored this season and only 110 allowed, their defense and offense have been dominant forces.

Stayton, ranked 55th overall and 9th in their class, has had a strong season at 8-3. However, their league record of 2-3 reflects some struggles against top-tier competition. The Eagles have shown resilience in their non-league games, going 5-0, and their overall scoring margin (314-225) highlights their offensive potential.

A Glance Back: The First Encounter

The teams last met on October 18, with Marist claiming a decisive 35-0 victory in Stayton. The Spartans controlled every aspect of the game, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses while efficiently capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Stayton struggled to gain momentum and will need a different game plan to avoid a similar fate.

Key Comparisons

• Offensive Output: Marist averages 38.7 points per game, far outpacing Stayton’s 28.5. The Spartans consistently start strong, scoring 14.0 points in the first quarter and 23.5 in the second, putting opponents on their heels early.
• Defense: Marist’s defense has been rock-solid, allowing an average of just 11 points per game. Stayton has been more susceptible, giving up 20.5 per game.
• Common Opponents: Both teams share matchups against five common opponents. Marist holds a perfect 5-0 record in those games, while Stayton went 3-2, including losses to Cascade and Philomath, teams Marist defeated handily.

Keys to Victory

For Stayton, the path to an upset lies in tightening their defense and avoiding the early deficits that plagued them in the first matchup. QB protection, minimizing turnovers, and finding a rhythm in their running game will be critical.

Marist, on the other hand, will look to continue their dominance by applying pressure early and controlling the game through their potent offense and staunch defense. Their ability to adjust and exploit Stayton’s vulnerabilities could seal another victory.

What’s at Stake

For Stayton, this game is about redemption and proving they can compete against one of the state’s elite teams. For Marist, it’s an opportunity to solidify their status as championship contenders and maintain their unbeaten streak at home.

The playoff atmosphere promises an electric evening under the Friday night lights. Will Stayton rise to the occasion and shock the Spartans, or will Marist continue their march toward a state title? Fans won’t want to miss this pivotal clash.