The Mercedes (TX) varsity football team will host Sharyland (Mission, TX) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 15 at 7:00 PM. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, Conference 5A Division 2 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Mercedes vs Sharyland
When: Friday, November 15, 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: Mercedes vs Sharyland

As the high school football season enters its final stages, the Sharyland Rattlers (5-5) and the Mercedes Tigers (7-3) are gearing up for a thrilling playoff matchup on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. in Mercedes, Texas. The two teams are coming off strong seasons and have a history of competitive play, setting the stage for a highly anticipated contest.

Season Recap

Both teams have had solid performances throughout the season, with Mercedes holding a stronger overall record (7-3) compared to Sharyland’s 5-5. However, Sharyland has had its fair share of highs, including a dominant 56-40 win over Mercedes earlier in the season on September 27. Despite the loss, Mercedes has been solid in district play with a 4-1 record, showcasing resilience on both sides of the ball.

Sharyland has been led by star player Calvin Harris, who ranks highly in passing and rushing yards. Harris has been a dual threat, compiling 279.1 passing yards and 65.0 rushing yards per game. On the other hand, Mercedes relies heavily on its powerhouse rusher, Robert Sanchez, who leads the team with an impressive 145.7 rushing yards per game.

Offensive and Defensive Stats

When comparing team stats, Mercedes has a clear edge in rushing yards, averaging 266.0 per game, while Sharyland has averaged 123.5 yards per game on the ground. However, Sharyland has a more dynamic passing game, averaging 283.9 passing yards per game compared to Mercedes’ 160.0 yards per game.

Both teams are proficient in total yards, with Mercedes averaging 426.0 yards per game and Sharyland close behind with 407.4 yards. However, Sharyland has been slightly more efficient in scoring, averaging 32.2 points per game compared to Mercedes’ 33.4 points per game. Both teams are known for their strong defenses, with Mercedes recording 107.8 tackles per game, while Sharyland averages 67.2 tackles per game.

Key Players to Watch

For Sharyland, Calvin Harris will be crucial on both sides of the ball, as he has been the team’s leader in total yards and points per game. His ability to both pass and run will be vital in attacking Mercedes’ defense. On defense, Ivan Ramirez, with 7 tackles per game, will be key in stopping the run-heavy attack of Mercedes.

Mercedes will look to Robert Sanchez to lead the ground game, as his 145.7 rushing yards per game have been a major factor in their success. On defense, Frank Gonzalez has been a standout, averaging 11.7 tackles per game, and he will play a critical role in shutting down Sharyland’s offensive attack.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The September 27 matchup between the two teams saw Sharyland come out on top with a 56-40 victory, where the Rattlers capitalized on a strong second half to secure the win. Sharyland scored 21 points in the third quarter and 14 in the fourth, overwhelming Mercedes’ defense despite a strong push from the Tigers. This victory gives Sharyland some momentum heading into the playoff rematch, but Mercedes will be looking for redemption on their home turf.

Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications

This game holds significant implications for both teams as they advance through the playoffs. Mercedes enters the game with momentum, having won 4 of their last 5 district games, including a solid victory over Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Southwest. Meanwhile, Sharyland will need to maintain its offensive efficiency and improve defensively to have a chance in the postseason.

With both teams having strong offensive units and capable defenses, this game promises to be a thrilling contest. The winner will continue their playoff journey, while the loser will face an early exit, making the stakes even higher.

Be sure to catch the action on Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m., as Sharyland faces off against Mercedes in this exciting playoff showdown.