The St. John’s Prep (Danvers, MA) varsity football team has a home playoff game vs. Methuen (MA) today at 6 pm.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Massachusetts High School Football
Who: St. John’s Prep (MA) vs. Methuen (MA)
When: Friday, November 15
Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Playoff Preview: Methuen vs. St. John’s Prep – MIAA Division 1
The highly anticipated clash between Methuen and St. John’s Prep promises to be a thrilling encounter as two of Massachusetts’ top high school football teams battle for a spot in the next round of the Division 1 playoffs.
Team Profiles and Records
Methuen Rangers
- Overall Record: 9-1
- League Record: 5-0 (undefeated)
- Home Record: 6-0
- Away Record: 3-1
- Points For (PF): 357
- Points Against (PA): 190
- Key Strengths: Offensive firepower and consistency in league play.
The Rangers have been a scoring juggernaut this season, averaging an impressive 35.7 points per game. Led by a balanced attack, Methuen has thrived on both home and away turf. Their only blemish was a close non-league loss to Marshfield earlier this year.
St. John’s Prep Eagles
- Overall Record: 8-1
- League Record: 3-1
- Home Record: 6-0 (undefeated)
- Away Record: 2-1
- Points For (PF): 285
- Points Against (PA): 98
- Key Strengths: Dominant defense and strong performances against top-tier opponents.
St. John’s Prep boasts one of the most suffocating defenses in the state, allowing an average of just 10.9 points per game. Despite an early-season league loss, the Eagles have proven their ability to respond under pressure, highlighted by a commanding 42-20 win over common opponent Marshfield.
Key Comparisons
- Scoring Trends: Methuen’s high-octane offense will test the disciplined St. John’s defense. While the Rangers excel in the first and third quarters, the Eagles’ defense thrives in limiting opponents, particularly in the second half.
- Common Opponents: St. John’s Prep holds the edge, defeating Marshfield convincingly, whereas Methuen fell short in a hard-fought game.
- Home-Field Advantage: The Eagles are undefeated at home this season, making the atmosphere in Danvers a significant factor in their favor.
Players to Watch
- Methuen: Look for standout performances from their versatile quarterback and a dynamic wide receiver corps, capable of making big plays. Methuen’s defense will also be key in containing the Eagles’ running game.
- St. John’s Prep: Their defensive line, known for its relentless pressure, will look to disrupt Methuen’s rhythm. Offensively, the Eagles rely on their balanced attack and the leadership of their veteran QB.
Prediction
This matchup has all the makings of a classic playoff duel. Methuen’s explosive offense versus St. John’s lockdown defense will likely decide the outcome. Expect a close, hard-fought game with momentum swings and late-game drama.
Kickoff is at 6 PM in Danvers. Stay tuned for live updates and score tracking to follow this pivotal Division 1 showdown!
