The Campo Verde (Gilbert, AZ) varsity football team will host McClintock (Tempe, AZ) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships in the 5A Conference, with both teams looking to advance in the tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arizona High School Football
Who: McClintock vs Campo Verde
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Football Championships (Arizona) – Conference 5A
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: McClintock vs. Campo Verde

The 2024 AIA State Football Championships in the 5A Conference will feature a thrilling home playoff matchup between McClintock (Tempe, AZ) and Campo Verde (Gilbert, AZ) on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. Both teams are entering this game with impressive records, setting the stage for an exciting contest.

Team Overview

McClintock has had a strong season, boasting a 9-1 overall record and a 4-1 section performance. Their high-powered offense has been a major factor in their success, averaging an impressive 47.1 points per game. With standout performances in the first half, scoring an average of 32.6 points in the first two quarters, McClintock has shown their ability to dominate early. The Chargers will look to maintain this momentum as they face off against Campo Verde in the playoffs.

Campo Verde, with a 7-3 overall record and a perfect 5-0 section mark, has proven themselves as a competitive team this season. While their scoring has been more modest, averaging just 21.2 points per game, they have a solid defense and a strong home record. Campo Verde’s defense will need to step up to contain McClintock’s high-scoring offense if they hope to pull off an upset.

Scoring Breakdown

McClintock has demonstrated a consistent ability to score in the first half, while Campo Verde has struggled to keep up in the early stages of games. Campo Verde will need to find a way to slow down McClintock’s offense, particularly in the first half, to stay competitive.

Keys to the Game

For McClintock, continuing their high-scoring pace will be essential. Their ability to put up big points early and control the tempo of the game will put them in a strong position to advance. They will also need to keep pressure on Campo Verde’s offense to avoid any surprises.

Campo Verde’s best chance lies in their defense, which will need to slow down McClintock’s explosive attack. If they can force McClintock into mistakes and capitalize on any opportunities, they could keep the game close. Offensively, they will need to find ways to score more efficiently to match McClintock’s pace.

Conclusion

This 5A playoff game between McClintock and Campo Verde promises to be an exciting contest. With McClintock’s high-powered offense and Campo Verde’s solid defense, it’s a battle of strength vs. strength. Fans can expect an action-packed game as both teams fight for a spot in the next round of the 2024 AIA State Football Championships.

Team Stat Comparison

McClintock has been a high-octane offense, averaging 458.6 total yards per game, led by Jaxon Knutson, who has been stellar at quarterback, averaging 334.4 passing yards per game. McClintock’s passing game has been their primary weapon, and with Kemon Jackson contributing 122.4 receiving yards per game, the Chargers’ aerial attack is one of the most potent in the league.

In contrast, Campo Verde has been more balanced, with 147.3 rushing yards per game, led by Bobby Blackburn, who averages 56.5 yards per game. While their rushing attack is their bread and butter, the Coyotes also have a capable passing game, with Karsten Lee averaging 82.2 yards per game. The Coyotes have averaged 253.4 total yards per game, nearly 200 yards less than McClintock, but their balanced offense has been effective in securing wins.

On the defensive side, McClintock has been much more aggressive, averaging 87.6 tackles per game and 3.8 sacks per game. This strong defensive play has allowed them to stifle opposing offenses and create opportunities for their high-powered attack. Campo Verde, on the other hand, has had a less aggressive defense, averaging only 46.6 tackles per game and 2.4 sacks per game. While their defense has been effective in some games, they will need to step up to slow down McClintock’s offensive juggernaut.

Key Players to Watch

• McClintock:
  • Jaxon Knutson has been a standout player this season, leading the team with an impressive 334.4 passing yards per game. His ability to find his receivers, especially Kemon Jackson, will be key in breaking down Campo Verde’s defense.
  • Kemon Jackson is a major threat in the receiving game, averaging 122.4 receiving yards per game. His ability to make big plays in the air will be crucial for McClintock as they look to exploit Campo Verde’s defense.
  • Alexander Brice has been the leader of McClintock’s defense, contributing 12.5 tackles per game. His ability to stop the run and cover the pass will be essential in slowing down Campo Verde’s offense.
• Campo Verde:
  • Bobby Blackburn is the focal point of the Coyotes’ ground attack, and his ability to control the tempo with his 56.5 rushing yards per game will be key for Campo Verde’s offensive strategy.
  • Karsten Lee has been a reliable passer for the Coyotes, and his 82.2 passing yards per game could be critical in keeping McClintock’s defense honest. He will need to find success in the air, as Campo Verde may need to play from behind if McClintock’s offense gets rolling.
  • Drew Pollard, with 6.0 tackles per game, will need to lead the defense and help contain the McClintock passing attack. Pressure on Knutson will be key in limiting his effectiveness.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opponents, including Skyline, Gilbert, Sunnyslope, and Dobson. McClintock won all four of these matchups, including a 54-21 victory over Skyline and a 56-18 win over Dobson. Campo Verde also triumphed over these teams, including a 31-14 victory over Skyline and a 27-14 win over Gilbert. With both teams having handled common opponents with ease, this game will come down to which team can execute their game plan most effectively.

Record Breakdown

• McClintock comes into this game with an overall record of 9-1, having dominated both in-league and out-of-league play. Their only loss came in league play, but they have proven to be a well-rounded team with a potent offense and a stingy defense. They have a 5-0 record in non-league games and are looking to continue their dominance heading into the playoffs.
• Campo Verde, with a 7-3 record, has had a solid season but will need to step up to compete with McClintock’s high-powered offense. Their 5-0 record in non-league play has shown that they can perform against tough competition, and their balanced offense will be critical against a team like McClintock.

Game Outlook

This matchup promises to be an exciting game, as McClintock’s high-powered offense faces off against Campo Verde’s balanced attack. McClintock will look to dominate through the air with Jaxon Knutson and Kemon Jackson, while Campo Verde will aim to control the clock with a strong rushing game led by Bobby Blackburn.

For Campo Verde to pull off the upset, they will need to find success on the ground, control the tempo, and keep McClintock’s offense off the field. The Coyotes’ defense will also need to step up, as McClintock’s passing game is one of the best in the league.

McClintock, with their explosive offense and solid defense, comes into this game as the favorite, but Campo Verde is a dangerous team that has proven it can win big games. Expect a hard-fought contest as both teams battle for supremacy and a strong finish to the regular season.