The East Forsyth (Kernersville, NC) varsity football team will play Mooresville (NC) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: North Carolin High School Football
Who: Mooresville vs East Forsyth
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Mooresville vs. East Forsyth

The Mooresville (11-1) team will face the undefeated East Forsyth (12-0) in a highly anticipated playoff matchup. Both teams have had strong seasons, but East Forsyth remains undefeated with a powerful offense and defense. Mooresville will need to bring their A-game to compete with East Forsyth’s high-flying offense.

Season Recap

Mooresville

• Record: 11-1
• Conference Record: 6-0 (Undefeated in conference play)
• Points Scored: 552
• Points Allowed: 116
• Key Player: Brody Norman has been the driving force of Mooresville’s offense, throwing for 196.3 passing yards per game and averaging 249.6 total yards per game.
• Strengths:
  • Balanced offense, with a solid rushing attack led by Ja’darius Mccombs (67.3 yards per game).
  • Strong offensive line play, allowing Mooresville to be a potent force on both sides of the ball.
  • Strong team defense, with Tanner Finnerty leading the way with 8.7 tackles per game.

East Forsyth

• Record: 12-0 (Undefeated)
• Conference Record: 7-0 (Dominant in conference play)
• Points Scored: 622
• Points Allowed: 197
• Key Player: Bryce Baker, the dynamic quarterback, has been outstanding with 258.3 passing yards per game, leading a high-powered offense.
• Strengths:
  • High-scoring offense, averaging 51.9 points per game.
  • Elite passing attack, with Bryce Baker connecting frequently with JP Gilchrist, who has 84.3 receiving yards per game.
  • Solid defense, with Nathan Stewart racking up 10.2 tackles per game and Robbie Whitney adding consistent pressure with 0.8 sacks per game.

Key Stats and Comparisons

Players to Watch

Mooresville

• Brody Norman (QB): Norman leads the Mooresville offense, throwing for 196.3 yards per game and controlling the game from the pocket. His ability to distribute the ball will be key to breaking down East Forsyth’s defense.
• Ja’darius Mccombs (RB): Mccombs is Mooresville’s workhorse, averaging 67.3 rushing yards per game. He will need to find success on the ground to keep East Forsyth’s offense off the field.
• Tanner Finnerty (LB): As the team leader in tackles, Finnerty will be tasked with containing East Forsyth’s offensive playmakers. His ability to read the offense and stop plays before they develop will be crucial.

East Forsyth

• Bryce Baker (QB): Baker has been outstanding all season, with 258.3 passing yards per game. His ability to move the ball downfield quickly will put pressure on Mooresville’s secondary.
• JP Gilchrist (WR): Gilchrist is Baker’s favorite target, racking up 84.3 receiving yards per game. His speed and route-running ability make him a threat for big plays.
• Nathan Stewart (LB): Stewart leads the defense with 10.2 tackles per game and will be key in stopping Mooresville’s offense. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield will give East Forsyth a huge advantage.

Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense

Mooresville’s defense, allowing just 9.7 points per game, will need to slow down the high-powered offense of East Forsyth. The key will be containing Bryce Baker and JP Gilchrist in the passing game while preventing big runs from Corey Blair.

On the other hand, East Forsyth’s defense will be tasked with stopping the balanced offensive attack from Mooresville, led by Brody Norman and Ja’darius Mccombs. The ability to pressure Norman in the pocket and limit the running game will be key for East Forsyth.

Prediction

East Forsyth enters this game undefeated with a powerful offense that can score quickly. Mooresville, while strong on both sides of the ball, will need to execute flawlessly to keep up with East Forsyth’s pace. Mooresville’s defense will be tested, and their success in stopping East Forsyth’s passing attack will be critical.