The Menard Yellowjackets (8-1-1) varsity football team from Texas will face off against the Benavides Eagles (5-5) in a neutral playoff game on Thursday, November 14, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 6-Man 1A Division 1” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Menard vs Benavides
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football 6-Man 1A D1
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Game preview: Menard vs Benavides

The football teams from Benavides and Menard High Schools have had intriguing and contrasting seasons so far, with both programs showcasing a combination of resilience and skill. Here’s a comprehensive look at their records, rankings, and key players.

Season Records and Rankings

Benavides Eagles (2024-25 Season)

• Overall Record: 5-5
• District Record: 1-2
• Home Record: 2-3
• Away Record: 3-2
• Winning Percentage: .500
• District Winning Percentage: .333
• Points For (PF): 297
• Points Against (PA): 262
• National Rank: 1,602
• Texas State Rank: 144 (State Division Rank: 75)

Menard Yellowjackets (2024-25 Season)

• Overall Record: 8-1-1
• District Record: 4-0
• Home Record: 4-1
• Away Record: 4-0-1
• Winning Percentage: .850
• District Winning Percentage: 1.000
• Points For (PF): 448
• Points Against (PA): 301
• National Rank: 480
• Texas State Rank: 51 (State Division Rank: 45)

Scoring Trends

• Benavides Eagles have a steady but modest scoring pattern, averaging 16.0 points per game. Their most productive quarter is the first, where they average 6 points, but they struggle to score consistently in the later quarters, posting zero averages for the second, third, and fourth quarters.
• Menard Yellowjackets, on the other hand, boast an impressive 44.8 points per game. They dominate the second quarter with an average of 19.5 points and maintain offensive pressure through all four quarters, showing a well-rounded scoring capability.

Key Team Statistics

• Benavides:
  • Rushing Yards Per Game: 94.1
  • Passing Yards Per Game: 27.7
  • Receiving Yards Per Game: 26.1
  • Total Yards Per Game: 121.8
  • Tackles Per Game: 3.5
  • Sacks Per Game: 0.3
• Menard:
  • Statistics not specified, but their offensive output clearly eclipses Benavides.

Team Leaders

Benavides Eagles

• Guillermo Fraga (#2):
  • Rushing Yards Per Game: 106.8
  • Passing Yards Per Game: 43.5
  • Total Yards Per Game: 150.3
• Keith Viera (#1):
  • Receiving Yards Per Game: 43.8
• Jacob Garcia (#65):
  • Tackles Per Game: 3.5
  • Sacks Per Game: 1.0
• Shane Ryan (#9):
  • Points Per Game: 14.0

Menard Yellowjackets

• Player statistics are not listed, but their balanced team effort contributes to their higher scoring and defensive numbers.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

• Common Opponent: Both teams have played against St. Augustine and secured victories. Benavides defeated St. Augustine 18-12, while Menard won by a forfeit (2-0).
• Head-to-Head Matchup: These teams have not faced each other this season.

Analysis and Outlook

The Benavides Eagles have shown grit this season, finishing with a .500 record. However, their scoring inconsistency and defensive struggles suggest room for improvement. Star player Guillermo Fraga has carried much of the offensive load, and standout defensive performances by Jacob Garcia have provided bright spots.

Meanwhile, the Menard Yellowjackets have excelled with an 8-1-1 record, showcasing a balanced and explosive offense, particularly in the second quarter. Their unbeaten district record indicates their dominance in competitive matchups. The team’s consistent defensive performance and scoring depth make them formidable opponents.

As the season progresses or potential playoff scenarios come into view, Menard’s strength and Benavides’ determination will be key to watch.