The Lakeland (FL) varsity football team will host Niceville (FL) in a home playoff game today at 7:30 p.m. at Lakeland. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 5A FHSAA Football tournament.

Niceville vs Lakeland High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: Niceville vs Lakeland
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 5A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Niceville vs Lakeland

In an exciting playoff clash, the Lakeland (FL) varsity football team is set to host Niceville (FL) today at 7:30 p.m. at Lakeland in the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 5A tournament. Both teams are on impressive runs and are looking to extend their seasons with a victory in this highly anticipated matchup.

Team Records & Performance:

Niceville comes into this game with a stellar 12-1 record. They have been dominant throughout the season, going undefeated at home with an 8-0 record and finishing with a 2-1 district record. They have scored 476 points while allowing 234, reflecting their high-scoring offense and solid defense. Niceville’s playoff run has been strong, and they are eager to take down the undefeated Lakeland team.

Lakeland, on the other hand, enters the game with a perfect 12-0 record. They have been virtually unstoppable this season, winning all of their games, including 5-0 at home and 6-0 away. Their defense has been formidable, allowing only 127 points, while their offense has scored 465 points. Lakeland’s ability to perform under pressure has been a key factor in their flawless season, making them one of the most formidable teams in the state.

Scoring Averages:

Niceville has been putting up an average of 36.6 points per game, with strong performances in the first half, averaging 12.3 points in the first quarter and 12.9 in the second quarter. In contrast, Lakeland averages 38.8 points per game, with their highest scoring quarters coming in the fourth (8.8 points) and first (12 points), demonstrating their ability to finish strong.

Stat Comparison:

When comparing team statistics, Niceville shows a more balanced offensive attack, averaging 228.1 rushing yards per game and 159.9 passing yards per game. In contrast, Lakeland has a more dominant aerial offense, with 118.5 rushing yards and 118.9 passing yards per game. Both teams show explosive plays, but Lakeland has the edge in overall yardage with an average of 424.4 total yards per game compared to Niceville’s 388.0.

On defense, Lakeland has been a standout, holding opponents to just 25.1 tackles per game, far below Niceville’s 61.6. While Niceville has the edge in pancake blocks, Lakeland’s overall performance in both offense and defense gives them the edge in this matchup.

Key Players:

For Niceville, running back Connor Mathews leads the way with 95.3 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Kane Lafortune has been exceptional, averaging 124.1 passing yards per game and contributing to the team’s balanced attack.

Lakeland’s offense is led by quarterback Zander Smith, who has been impressive with 91.8 passing yards per game. Running back Shanard Clower has also been a key contributor with 55.6 receiving yards per game, while the defense is anchored by Jhaden Williams, who has 6.4 tackles per game.

Game Breakdown:

• Niceville Record: 12-1 (2-1 district, 8-0 home, 4-1 away)
• Lakeland Record: 12-0 (3-0 district, 5-0 home, 6-0 away)

Niceville’s offense will need to perform at its best to compete with Lakeland’s relentless and high-powered offense. Lakeland’s defense will be crucial in slowing down Niceville’s attack, as they look to continue their perfect season and advance to the next round of the state championships.

This exciting 5A playoff game promises to be an intense and hard-fought contest. Both teams are bringing their best to the field tonight, and fans can expect a thrilling game under the lights at Lakeland.

Don’t miss this exciting playoff battle at 7:30 p.m. today!