The Memorial (Wichita Falls, TX) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Argyle (TX) on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM at Ram Stadium in Mineral Wells, Texas. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships for the 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 2 tournament.
Memorial vs Argyle Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Memorial vs Argyle
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D2
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Game preview: Memorial vs Argyle
As the Texas high school football season reaches its final stages, two powerhouse teams stand out: Argyle and Memorial. Both squads have put up impressive records and have demonstrated exceptional skill across various areas of the game. The upcoming match between these two teams promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing outstanding individual and team statistics. Here’s a detailed look at their rankings, records, and key players heading into this showdown.
Argyle Eagles: Dominating with Consistency
Argyle, ranked 24th in the state, has had a standout season with a 10-1 overall record. The Eagles dominated their district with a perfect 8-0 record, showcasing their ability to perform in high-stakes games. Their overall win percentage stands at a remarkable .909, and they have proven to be a force both at home and away with a home record of 6-0 and a solid 4-1 record on the road. In total, Argyle has scored 458 points while allowing just 158, showcasing their balanced attack and solid defense.
The Eagles’ offensive production has been anchored by standout performances from several key players. Obadiah Goble has been a major force in the rushing game, averaging 96.3 yards per game, while quarterback Maguire Gasperson has thrown for 212.1 yards per game, leading the team with 230.3 total yards per game. Gasperson also contributes significantly to the team’s scoring, with 12 points per game. On defense, Brody Bomar leads the team with 7.3 tackles per game, while Hank Woodard has contributed with 0.5 sacks per game.
Memorial Mustangs: A Strong Contender
Memorial, ranked 172nd in the state, has been no slouch this season, finishing with a 9-2 overall record. Their district record of 5-1 is a testament to their resilience, and with a 4-1 away record, Memorial has proven their ability to compete on the road. While their overall win percentage of .818 isn’t as high as Argyle’s, their strong offensive production has kept them in the hunt for the playoffs. Memorial has scored 523 points this season, averaging a robust 47.5 points per game, which is higher than Argyle’s 40.5 points per game.
Leading the offensive charge for Memorial is Kenji Johnson, who has been unstoppable in the rushing game with 146.2 yards per game. Quarterback Joe Castles has been efficient in the passing game, averaging 181.1 yards per game, contributing to Memorial’s total of 456.8 yards per game. On the defensive side, Hunter Talley leads the team with 9 tackles per game, while Jaiden Wetzel contributes 0.5 sacks per game. Memorial’s offense has been prolific, especially in the later stages of games, as they average a staggering 14.1 points per game in the fourth quarter.
Statistical Comparison: Offense vs. Defense
When comparing the two teams, Argyle holds a slight edge in passing yards per game (224.9 vs. Memorial’s 215.1), while Memorial outshines Argyle in rushing yards per game (241.7 vs. Argyle’s 195.8). Both teams excel in total yards per game, with Argyle averaging 420.7 and Memorial at 456.8. Memorial’s superior offensive output, combined with their ability to perform in the fourth quarter, could give them an advantage in a high-scoring game.
On defense, both teams are strong, with Argyle averaging 68.1 tackles per game and Memorial not far behind with 65.6. However, Argyle has managed to rack up more sacks, averaging 1.9 per game compared to Memorial’s 1.3. This could be crucial in limiting Memorial’s passing attack.
Key Matchups
- Rushing Attack: Kenji Johnson of Memorial vs. Obadiah Goble of Argyle. Both are key to their team’s success, and this battle on the ground could decide the tempo of the game.
- Quarterbacks: Maguire Gasperson’s passing accuracy will be challenged by Memorial’s defense, particularly their ability to contain explosive receivers like Will Krzysiak, who has averaged 84.1 receiving yards per game.
- Defense: Both teams are capable of big plays, and the ability to stop the run and pressure the quarterback will be pivotal. Argyle’s pass rush, led by Hank Woodard, will need to get to Joe Castles to disrupt Memorial’s passing game.
Playoff Implications
Both teams have clinched playoff berths, but this game will carry major implications for their positioning heading into the postseason. Argyle has been dominant in Texas, but Memorial’s explosive offense and solid defense make them a formidable opponent. A win for either team would serve as a confidence booster and set them up for a deep playoff run.
Conclusion
As Argyle and Memorial face off in what promises to be a thrilling high school football game, both teams will bring their best to the field. With both teams boasting high-powered offenses and solid defenses, the game is expected to be a close, high-stakes contest. Fans can look forward to a hard-fought battle as two of Texas’ top teams collide in a clash of football titans.