The Reading Memorial (Reading, MA) varsity football team has a home playoff game vs. Milford (MA) today at 6 pm.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Massachusetts High School Football
Who: Milford (MA) vs. Reading Memorial (MA)
When: Friday, November 15
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Friday Night Lights: Milford vs. Reading Memorial in Division 3 Playoffs

The highly anticipated matchup between Milford and Reading Memorial kicks off on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 6 PM at Reading Memorial High School in Reading, Massachusetts. This game marks a critical step in the 2024 MIAA Football State Championship – Division 3 tournament, with both teams fighting for playoff glory.

Game Preview

Reading Memorial enters the game as a dominant force with a perfect 9-0 record. Undefeated in league and non-league play, the Rockets have established themselves as a powerhouse, outscoring opponents 343-97 over the season. On the other side, Milford brings a 4-5 record, including a 1-3 league mark. Despite their underdog status, Milford’s resilience and determination in prior matchups show they’re ready to challenge the Rockets on their home turf.

Team Comparisons

Offensive Firepower

• Reading Memorial boasts an impressive 38.1 points per game average, propelled by a balanced offensive attack that racks up 261.6 rushing yards per game. Their first-half scoring dominance (26.6 average points in Q1 and Q2 combined) often puts games out of reach early.
• Milford averages 21.6 points per game, relying heavily on standout performances from key players like D’von Burcy, who averages 112.8 rushing yards per game.

Defensive Edge
Reading Memorial’s defense complements its high-powered offense, holding opponents to an average of just 10.8 points per game. Meanwhile, Milford has shown vulnerability, giving up 194 points across nine games, equating to 21.6 points per game allowed.

Player Spotlights

Milford Scarlet Hawks:

• D’von Burcy (#2): Milford’s offensive leader, Burcy’s 112.8 rushing yards per game and 13.6 points per game make him a critical player to watch.
• Jack Murphy (#1): The quarterback averages 86.2 passing yards per game, playing a dual role with his rushing and passing abilities.
• Ryan Fitzgerald (#21): Defensively, Fitzgerald leads the team with 7.3 tackles per game, anchoring the Scarlet Hawks’ defense.

Reading Memorial Rockets:

• The Rockets showcase depth, consistently outperforming the national average in nearly every statistical category. Their offensive line provides ample opportunities for rushing and passing, making them a formidable opponent on all fronts.

Keys to the Game

• Milford: The Scarlet Hawks must rely on Burcy’s rushing ability and a strong defensive performance to neutralize Reading’s early scoring bursts. Sustaining long drives and capitalizing on scoring opportunities will be crucial to stay competitive.
• Reading Memorial: For the Rockets, sticking to their game plan of early dominance and controlling the clock through their potent rushing attack will likely seal their path to the next round.

Rankings & Records

• Milford: Ranked 48th in Massachusetts Division 7
• Reading Memorial: Ranked 30th in Massachusetts Division 3

Despite their record, Milford has the potential to shake things up in what promises to be an electrifying playoff clash. Can the Scarlet Hawks pull off an upset, or will the Rockets continue their perfect run? Fans won’t want to miss this showdown under the Friday night lights!