The New Canaan Rams are set to host the undefeated Newtown Nighthawks in an exciting Class L playoff game today at 12:30 PM. This highly anticipated matchup is part of the 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets, and both teams have earned their place in the postseason with impressive regular-season records.
Game Details:
- What: Connecticut High School Football
- Who: Newtown vs. New Canaan
- When: Sunday, December 8, 2024
- Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Bracket: 2024 CIAC Class L Playoff Bracket
- Live Stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Newtown vs. New Canaan
The stage is set for a thrilling Class L playoff battle, with Newtown arriving with a perfect 11-0 record. The Nighthawks have dominated throughout the season, securing the top seed in Class L and outscoring opponents by an average of 38.4 points per game. Newtown’s high-powered offense and stingy defense will be tested against New Canaan, who enters the matchup with a 10-1 record, boasting an 8-0 league record and an explosive offense of their own.
Newtown’s Perfect Season
Newtown’s stellar 11-0 record has been built on a balanced and powerful offensive attack, as well as a suffocating defense. Quarterback Ryan Schoffstall has led the offense with 225.4 passing yards per game, while running back Ayden Paulos has been a key force, averaging 77.3 rushing yards per game. The Nighthawks’ defense has been just as impressive, with linebacker Graham Spencer leading the team with 6.8 tackles per game. Additionally, the offensive line has been dominant, with Marco Damico earning 25 pancake blocks this season.
New Canaan’s Strong Season
New Canaan, ranked third in Class L, enters the game with a 10-1 record. The Rams’ only loss came in a non-league matchup against Masuk, but they rebounded with eight straight league victories. Quarterback Luke Robinson has been the centerpiece of their offense, averaging 149.5 passing yards per game, and wide receiver Andrew Esposito has been a consistent target, hauling in 80.7 receiving yards per game. New Canaan’s defense has also been impressive, led by linebacker Jack Crowell, who averages 7.4 tackles per game.
Team Comparison: Offense & Defense
Newtown’s offense has been averaging 422 total yards per game, with a balanced attack that combines 224.8 passing yards and 119.9 rushing yards per game. On the other hand, New Canaan has averaged 303.5 total yards per game, with a strong rushing attack (149.5 yards per game) led by their dynamic offense.
Defensively, both teams have been outstanding. Newtown has allowed 151 points this season, while New Canaan has been even more stingy, giving up just 97 points. New Canaan has averaged 60.9 tackles per game, slightly edging out Newtown’s 53.3 tackles per game.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced Masuk this season, with Newtown defeating Masuk 35-18 on the road. New Canaan, however, lost 14-0 at home to the same opponent. While the results against Masuk differ, both teams bring impressive resumes into this game, making for an exciting and competitive matchup.
Key Players to Watch:
- Newtown: Quarterback Ryan Schoffstall and running back Ayden Paulos will be crucial to Newtown’s chances. Schoffstall’s passing and Paulos’ rushing will be central to the Nighthawks’ success.
- New Canaan: Quarterback Luke Robinson and wide receiver Andrew Esposito are the Rams’ primary offensive weapons. Linebacker Jack Crowell will also be key on defense.
Conclusion
The battle between Newtown and New Canaan is set to be an exciting postseason clash. Newtown’s undefeated season and potent offense will be put to the test against New Canaan’s strong defense and skilled playmakers. With both teams in top form, this Class L playoff game is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. New Canaan will look to upset the perfect season of Newtown, while the Nighthawks aim to continue their dominant run toward the state title. Football fans in Connecticut are in for an exciting showdown this afternoon!
