The Mt. Ararat/Hyde (Topsham, ME) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Greely (Cumberland Center, ME) on Saturday, November 16, at 11 a.m. This matchup is part of the “2024 MPA Football Championships presented by Hammond Lumber Company – 8-Man Large” tournament.

What: Maine High School Football
Who: Mt. Ararat/Hyde (ME) vs Greely (ME)
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 11 a.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 MPA Football Championships presented by Hammond Lumber Company – 8-Man Large
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Greely vs. Mt. Ararat/Hyde: A Rivalry Intensifies as Playoff Action Heats Up

As the football season hits its stride, one of the most exciting matchups in Maine is set to unfold this Saturday, November 16, as the Greely Rangers (Cumberland Center, ME) take on Mt. Ararat/Hyde (Topsham, ME) in a highly anticipated neutral-site playoff game. With both teams bringing strong records into this clash, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they battle for playoff supremacy.

Team Records and Rankings

Greely Rangers come into the game with an impressive 8-1 overall record, having dominated both their league and non-league games. Ranked 569th nationally and 2nd in the state, Greely boasts a perfect 1.000 region win percentage and has shown their offensive and defensive strength, outscoring opponents by a wide margin (340 points for, 128 points against). They’ve demonstrated exceptional consistency with a 3-0 region record, making them a formidable force.

On the other hand, Mt. Ararat/Hyde has also had an impressive season with a 9-2 record. Nationally ranked 607th and 3rd in the state, Mt. Ararat/Hyde has been solid in its own right, with a .750 region win percentage. Their total points scored (478) is significantly higher than Greely’s, but their defensive performance has been stronger than their offensive numbers, yielding only 164 points throughout the season. They’re led by a mix of returning and emerging stars and will be looking to avenge a recent 30-26 loss to Greely in a regular-season matchup.

Head-to-Head: A Close Encounter

In their last meeting, Greely edged out Mt. Ararat/Hyde in a nail-biting conference game on October 19, winning 30-26. Both teams demonstrated their capabilities, with Greely managing to pull ahead despite a late surge from Mt. Ararat/Hyde. This game promises to be just as competitive, with both squads poised for another tight battle.

Scoring Averages and Offensive Strategies

Looking at the team scoring averages, Greely comes in at 37.8 points per game, showing their ability to put up big numbers, especially in the first half (14 points in the first quarter and 20 in the second). However, their scoring tends to dip in the second half, with only 6 points in the final quarter. Their offense is powered by standout players such as Dash Farrell, who leads the team in rushing yards (220.7) and total yards per game (237.0). His consistent playmaking ability will be crucial in maintaining Greely’s offensive momentum.

On the other hand, Mt. Ararat/Hyde has been a bit more erratic with their scoring, averaging 43.5 points per game. Their explosive fourth-quarter performances (28 points) have allowed them to overcome deficits and snatch victories from the jaws of defeat. Their offense, led by Trent Bailey (passing for 42 yards per game), is more balanced but less reliant on big numbers than Greely’s. Despite scoring fewer points, they’re known for tightening up defensively, a key factor in their 9-2 record.

Team Stat Comparison

While Greely has dominated in terms of total yards per game (237 vs. 36.6 for Mt. Ararat/Hyde), the latter has been more efficient in limiting opponents’ scoring, giving up only 164 points in total this season compared to Greely’s 128. However, Greely’s offensive explosiveness, particularly in the rushing game, will be a major test for Mt. Ararat/Hyde’s defense.

Common Opponents: The Competitive Edge

Both teams have faced off against common opponents throughout the season, with Greely holding a 6-1 record and Mt. Ararat/Hyde recording an 8-1 tally. Notable results include both teams overcoming Waterville and Yarmouth/North Yarmouth Academy in dominant fashion. The shared successes against these teams highlight the close competition between these two top-tier squads.

What’s at Stake?

The stakes are high as these teams battle not just for playoff progression but for regional bragging rights. Greely’s perfect region record gives them an edge in terms of confidence and momentum, while Mt. Ararat/Hyde’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations makes them a dangerous opponent.

With a neutral site location for this playoff encounter, both teams will be facing unfamiliar turf, making home-field advantage a non-factor. However, the players and coaching staffs are undoubtedly prepared for the challenge, and fans can expect a thrilling contest.

In a playoff matchup that features two of the best teams in the region, every play, every decision, and every point will matter. Will Greely’s offensive power prove too much for Mt. Ararat/Hyde’s defense? Or will the latter’s resilient defense and late-game heroics propel them to victory? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this game will be one to remember.