The Eastside Catholic varsity football team (Sammamish, WA) will host Monroe (WA) today at 3 p.m. for a playoff game.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Washington High School Football
Who: Monroe vs Eastside Catholic
When: Today, November 16, 2024
Time: 3:00. p.m. ET
“2024 Football Washington State Championships – 3A State Football”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
High School Football Showdown: Monroe vs. Eastside Catholic
The 2024-2025 high school football season has seen two powerhouse teams—Monroe and Eastside Catholic—shine with dominant performances. Both teams have racked up impressive records, showing prowess both in their respective districts and beyond, setting up an exciting head-to-head comparison between the two programs.
Monroe’s Strong Season Performance
Monroe comes into the season with a record of 9-1, showcasing a remarkable 90% win rate. Their district play has been flawless, with a perfect 5-0 record, while they are 5-1 in non-league contests. Monroe has proved their ability to dominate both at home (5-1) and on the road (4-0), with a point differential of +249 (435 points scored vs. 186 points allowed). This suggests an offense that can put up significant numbers, while the defense has been stingy throughout the season.
Monroe’s offensive game is highlighted by their high-scoring averages, particularly in the first and fourth quarters, where they have consistently scored 11 points per quarter. Their offense is led by standout players such as Carl Watson III, who averages 76.2 rushing yards per game, and Logan Manson, who has thrown for 175 yards per game. Monroe’s offensive depth is further demonstrated by Mason Davis, who leads the receiving corps with 79.3 yards per game. Defensively, Carl Watson III also contributes with 8.2 tackles per game, and Brennan Sheppard adds 0.7 sacks per game, showcasing the team’s well-rounded skill set.
Eastside Catholic’s Stellar Season Record
Eastside Catholic isn’t far behind, with an 8-1 record and an 88.9% win percentage. Their district performance stands at 6-1, with an impressive 4-1 record at home and a perfect 4-0 mark on the road. Their overall point differential is equally formidable, with 342 points scored and just 127 allowed. This indicates a defense that has been particularly stout, as evidenced by their low points allowed per game (14.1 on average).
The Crusaders have been especially strong in the second quarter, where they average 14.0 points. They too show a balanced offensive attack with standout players, including their quarterback Logan Manson, who has thrown for an average of 175 yards per game. In the receiving department, Mason Davis is a notable threat, and defensively, Eastside Catholic boasts a tough unit that can keep opposing offenses in check.
Team Statistics Comparison
When comparing the two teams’ statistical outputs, Monroe holds a slight edge in several categories, including rushing yards per game (160.2 vs. Eastside Catholic’s no reported rushing stats). Monroe also leads in total yards per game with 340.6 compared to Eastside Catholic’s unreported figure. However, Eastside Catholic excels in their scoring efficiency, averaging 39.4 points per game, which is higher than Monroe’s 43.5 points per game.
Head-to-Head & Common Opponents
Interestingly, both Monroe and Eastside Catholic have faced common opponents this season, both winning decisively in these matchups. Monroe’s 31-17 victory over Bishop Blanchet and a 48-7 triumph over Mountlake Terrace mirror Eastside Catholic’s similar successes, with a 37-20 win against Bishop Blanchet and a dominant 49-20 result against Mountlake Terrace. This shared dominance against common opponents highlights the caliber of both teams, though Monroe’s larger average margin of victory suggests they may be slightly more explosive.
Key Players & Impact
Both teams boast standout athletes capable of making a major impact in any game. For Monroe, Carl Watson III’s 76.2 rushing yards per game and Logan Manson’s 175 passing yards are key components of their offensive scheme. Watson’s physical presence is a crucial part of their ground game, while Manson’s precision in the air allows Monroe to keep opposing defenses guessing. On the defensive side, Watson’s 8.2 tackles per game and Sheppard’s ability to generate sacks provide Monroe with the edge needed to shut down high-powered offenses.
Eastside Catholic relies heavily on Manson’s passing ability, with 175 passing yards per game, while Mason Davis is a major receiving threat. The defensive side of Eastside Catholic also deserves mention for its ability to limit opponents to fewer points and maintain a high level of discipline, as seen by their low points allowed.
The Future: Playoff Hopes
Both Monroe and Eastside Catholic are poised for strong playoff runs this season. With their outstanding records and solid performances against common opponents, the teams will likely continue to dominate their respective districts and could meet in the playoffs for an epic showdown. As both teams have excelled in nearly every statistical category, it’s safe to say that this rivalry is one to watch as the season progresses.
Conclusion
Monroe and Eastside Catholic have established themselves as two of the best teams in Washington high school football, and their head-to-head comparison reveals a thrilling clash of offensive firepower and defensive stoutness. Monroe’s superior scoring in the early and late stages of games, combined with their ability to execute on both sides of the ball, positions them as a formidable opponent. However, Eastside Catholic’s overall efficiency and balanced play make them just as dangerous. Whether these teams meet in the playoffs or continue to assert their dominance in the regular season, both are undoubtedly among the elite in Washington football.
