The Mishawaka (IN) varsity football team will host East Noble (Kendallville, IN) for a playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:30 PM. This game is part of the 2024 IHSAA Football State Tournament, presented by the Indianapolis Colts, in the Class 4A State Tournament.

What: Indiana High School Football
Who: Mishawaka (IN) vs East Noble (IN)
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 IHSAA Football State Tournament presented by the Indianapolis Colts – Class 4A State Tournament
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Football Showdown: Merrillville vs. Warsaw – A Tale of Two Teams

As the 2024-2025 football season heats up, two standout teams, Merrillville and Warsaw, are poised for another exciting match-up. Both schools have shown incredible resilience and strength on the field, each with a unique style of play. Let’s break down the stats and performance records that define these teams and set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.

Overall Performance

Merrillville comes into this season with an impressive overall record of 11-1, boasting a stellar .917 win percentage. Their performance in conference play has been just as dominant, going 6-1 in league match-ups. In contrast, Warsaw, with a solid 9-3 overall record, has proven to be a formidable force, with a .750 win percentage and a .714 conference win rate. Though Merrillville has had the edge overall, Warsaw’s performance is nothing to overlook, especially with their strong showing at home (5-1) compared to their away record (4-2).

Team Scoring Averages

When it comes to scoring, Merrillville leads the charge with an average of 36.3 points per game, a figure driven by their balanced offensive game plan. They have shown the ability to consistently score across all four quarters, with notable peaks in the first two quarters (12.4 and 14.4 points, respectively). On the other hand, Warsaw averages 34.4 points per game, with a more varied scoring pattern throughout the game, hitting their highest point total in the final quarter (7.6 points) and overtime (7.0 points).

Statistical Comparison

Here’s a quick look at how the two teams stack up statistically:

• Merrillville:
  • Rushing Yards Per Game: 218.0
  • Passing Yards Per Game: 109.5
  • Total Yards Per Game: 327.5
  • Tackles Per Game: 60.4
  • Sacks Per Game: 2.5
  • Points Per Game: 31.1
• Warsaw:
  • Rushing Yards Per Game: –
  • Passing Yards Per Game: –
  • Total Yards Per Game: –
  • Tackles Per Game: –
  • Sacks Per Game: –
  • Points Per Game: 3.2

Merrillville’s offense has been particularly effective, averaging 218 rushing yards per game and 109.5 passing yards. Their total yards per game stand at an impressive 327.5. This offensive output is complemented by their aggressive defense, with 60.4 tackles per game and 2.5 sacks per game. In comparison, Warsaw has had a less quantifiable offensive output, but their focus on a strong team defense has seen them outscore their opponents with a notable average of 3.2 points per game.

Key Players to Watch

Merrillville’s offense revolves around standout running back Jac’Quarious Johnson, who averages 105.5 rushing yards per game. He is a key threat on the ground and has proven to be one of the top performers in the league. Jordan Sanders (101.2 passing yards per game) and Rynell Lewis (42.4 receiving yards per game) add depth to their air attack. Defensively, Aarion Kuykendall leads the team with 6.8 tackles per game, while Josiah Horton stands out with 1.2 sacks per game.

For Warsaw, Mason Smythe (5.0 points per game) and other contributors will look to match Merrillville’s offensive prowess, even though their scoring tends to be more distributed.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Michigan City this season, and both came out on top. Merrillville narrowly defeated Michigan City 14-12 at home, while Warsaw won 20-7 in their own stadium. This common opponent victory highlights the competitive edge of both teams.

Playoff Success

Looking ahead, both teams have excelled in playoff scenarios. Merrillville holds a perfect 3-0 record in the postseason, while Warsaw mirrors this success with a 3-0 playoff record. These teams are no strangers to high-stakes games, and the upcoming match-up could very well be a preview of the postseason intensity to come.

Conclusion

The Merrillville vs. Warsaw clash promises to be a highly competitive and thrilling match. With Merrillville’s explosive offense and solid defense going up against Warsaw’s well-rounded and resilient squad, it’s anyone’s game. Fans of both teams can expect an intense battle that showcases the very best of high school football.