The Mart (TX) varsity football team will host a playoff game against Cumby (TX) today at 7 PM at Malakoff High School. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 2A Division 2” tournament.
Mart vs Cumby Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Mart vs Cumby
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 2
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Game preview: Mart vs Cumby
As the high school football season nears its most crucial stages, two Texas teams with distinctly different paths meet in what promises to be a compelling contest: the Cumby Trojans (5-5) take on the Mart Panthers (8-2). Both teams will look to assert their strengths and extend their seasons in a matchup defined by explosive offenses and standout individual performances.
Team Overviews & Season Summaries
Cumby Trojans (5-5, 3-3 District) The Trojans enter the game with a balanced record and an even .500 win percentage. Despite a mixed season, Cumby has shown moments of brilliance, especially on offense, where they average 37 points per game. Their balanced offensive approach features strong rushing and passing, highlighted by standout athlete Chett Vaughan. Cumby has struggled somewhat on the defensive end, allowing 321 points over 10 games, and will need to tighten their defense against Mart’s high-powered attack. Key wins this season have demonstrated their ability to compete against tough opposition, particularly when they find their rhythm on both sides of the ball.
Mart Panthers (8-2, 6-1 District) The Panthers boast an impressive season record, with only two losses and a dominant 6-1 record in district play. Known for their defensive and offensive prowess, Mart scores a remarkable 41.5 points per game while limiting opponents to just 16.7 points on average. Their offensive efficiency is complemented by a strong defensive unit, which leads the way with 62.4 tackles per game and a higher rate of quarterback sacks compared to Cumby. The Panthers will look to continue their momentum, relying on the leadership and dual-threat abilities of D’angelo Rhodes and the consistent production from running back Ayden Lauderdale.
Offensive Showdown: Strengths and Key Players
Cumby’s Offensive Spark: Chett Vaughan Chett Vaughan serves as the engine of Cumby’s offense, with impressive numbers both as a rusher (104.9 yards per game) and as a passer (144.2 yards per game). His dual-threat capability allows the Trojans to keep defenses on their heels. Wide receiver Chaton Vaughan is another focal point, adding 54.6 receiving yards per game, while Justin Green leads the defense with an average of 10.5 tackles per game.
Mart’s Explosive Attack: Rhodes and Lauderdale The Panthers’ offensive unit is driven by the dynamic D’angelo Rhodes, who averages 119 passing yards and contributes 175.8 total yards per game. Ayden Lauderdale adds firepower on the ground with 92 rushing yards per game. Additionally, De’montrel Medlock is a versatile threat, contributing 15.2 points per game and solid production in the receiving game. On defense, Octavious Gillaspy stands out with 8.6 tackles per game, and Cadynn Villarreal provides stability up front with a steady pass rush.
Statistical Comparisons & Matchup Analysis
Team Scoring Averages Cumby averages 37 points per game, often striking early, with their highest-scoring quarter being the first (15.6 points). In contrast, Mart dominates throughout games, maintaining an average of 41.5 points per game and consistently applying pressure on both sides of the ball.
Yardage Battle Both teams average over 200 rushing yards per game, which sets the stage for a physical contest in the trenches. However, Mart holds a slight edge in overall offensive production, averaging 370 total yards compared to Cumby’s 337.9. The Panthers’ advantage in passing yards and their more efficient defense could make a significant difference.
Defensive Matchup Mart’s defense, with a knack for limiting big plays and getting to the quarterback, might pose challenges for Cumby. The Trojans’ defense, which averages only 0.2 sacks per game, will need to elevate their pressure to disrupt Mart’s well-balanced attack.
Keys to Victory
Cumby Trojans
- Limit Turnovers: Protecting the ball will be crucial against a disciplined Mart defense.
- Fast Start: Scoring early and building momentum could give Cumby a critical advantage.
- Defensive Adjustments: Containing Mart’s explosive playmakers will require strategic defense.
Mart Panthers
- Sustain Offensive Pressure: Keeping up their season-long scoring average will put Cumby in a difficult spot.
- Control Time of Possession: Utilizing Lauderdale’s ground game to control the clock could wear down Cumby’s defense.
- Defensive Stands: Forcing turnovers and leveraging their pass rush will be vital.
Final Thoughts
With Mart entering as the favorites thanks to their high-powered offense and a sturdy defense, Cumby will need to play one of their best games of the season. The clash between Vaughan’s versatility and Mart’s defensive intensity could make this matchup more competitive than it appears on paper. Fans can expect a thrilling game where the outcome might hinge on which team better executes their strengths and controls the game’s tempo.
