The American Heritage varsity football team (Plantation, FL) will host Norland (Miami, FL) in a home playoff game tonight at 7:00 PM at American Heritage High School. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the 4A division.
Norland vs American Heritage High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: Norland vs AHHS
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 4A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Norland vs American Heritage
Tonight, the stage is set for a marquee matchup in the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships (4A division) as Norland (Miami, FL) travels to face American Heritage (Plantation, FL) at 7:00 PM. Both teams boast 9-2 records and are among the top-ranked programs in the state, promising a high-stakes battle for playoff glory.
Season Recap: Dominance on Display
Norland Vikings (9-2)
- State Rank: 8 | Class Rank: 1 | National Rank: 27
- Record Breakdown:
- District Record: 2-1
- Points For (PF): 294 | Points Against (PA): 130
- Notable Wins: Central (1-0 forfeit), Archbishop McCarthy (49-16, 31-0), Plantation (37-20)
- Key Losses: Chaminade-Madonna (45-20)
The Vikings bring an explosive offense, averaging 469.4 total yards per game, led by dual-threat quarterback Ennio Yapoor, who accounts for a staggering 342.4 total yards per game. Yapoor’s dynamic play—264.1 passing yards and 78.3 rushing yards per game—makes him the centerpiece of Norland’s attack.
American Heritage Patriots (9-2)
- State Rank: 9 | Class Rank: 2 | National Rank: 29
- Record Breakdown:
- District Record: 3-0 (undefeated)
- Points For (PF): 325 | Points Against (PA): 159
- Notable Wins: Central (1-0 forfeit), Archbishop McCarthy (35-0), Plantation (35-0)
- Key Losses: Chaminade-Madonna (48-45)
The Patriots showcase a balanced and high-powered offense, averaging 432.1 total yards per game. Quarterback Dia Bell has been sensational, with 236.1 passing yards per game and standout receiver Malachi Toney averaging 91.6 receiving yards. Running back Byron Louis adds 131.3 rushing yards per game, giving American Heritage a multi-faceted offense.
Key Statistical Matchups
| Category | Norland | American Heritage |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 190.6 | 193.6 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 278.7 | 238.5 |
| Total Yards/Game | 469.4 | 432.1 |
| Tackles/Game | 62.8 | 77.4 |
| Sacks/Game | 4.9 | 4.3 |
| Points/Game | 30.6 | 34.6 |
While both teams excel offensively, American Heritage has a slight edge in scoring and defensive stats, including tackles per game.
Key Players to Watch
Norland Vikings
- QB Ennio Yapoor: The engine of Norland’s offense, Yapoor’s dual-threat capabilities will challenge American Heritage’s defense.
- WR Terrence Honeywood: Averaging 68.1 receiving yards per game, Honeywood is a critical target for Yapoor.
- LB Darryll Desir: Leading the defense with 8.0 tackles per game, Desir will be key to containing the Patriots’ rushing attack.
American Heritage Patriots
- QB Dia Bell: A poised and efficient passer, Bell’s connection with his receivers drives the Patriots’ air attack.
- RB Byron Louis: Averaging 131.3 rushing yards and 9.6 points per game, Louis is a consistent playmaker.
- WR Malachi Toney: Bell’s top target, Toney’s ability to stretch the field could be a deciding factor.
- LB Dylan Bennett: Anchoring the defense with 10.0 tackles per game, Bennett will be tasked with slowing Yapoor.
Previous Meeting: A Controversial Outcome
The two teams met earlier this season on October 14 in a game that ended in a forfeit victory for American Heritage. While the circumstances of that contest leave unanswered questions, tonight’s game offers both teams a chance to settle the score on the field.
Common Opponents: How They Stack Up
Both teams faced several common opponents this season, with comparable results.
- Chaminade-Madonna:
- Norland lost 45-20.
- American Heritage narrowly lost 48-45.
- Archbishop McCarthy:
- Norland won twice (49-16, 31-0).
- American Heritage won 35-0.
Game Outlook
This game is poised to be a showdown of elite talent and disciplined coaching. Norland’s explosive offense led by Yapoor will look to overcome American Heritage’s formidable defense. Meanwhile, the Patriots’ balanced attack, spearheaded by Bell and Louis, will test the Vikings’ resilience.
With both teams entering the matchup with identical records and championship aspirations, the outcome may hinge on which team can capitalize on key moments and avoid costly mistakes.
Kickoff: Tonight, 7:00 PM | Location: American Heritage High School
