The North Andover (MA) varsity football team will host a non-conference game against Andover (MA) today at 6 p.m.
What: Massachusetts High School Football
Who: North Andover (MA) vs Andover (MA)
When: Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
Where: North Andover High School
Live stream: Watch here
Analyzing the 2024-25 Season: Andover vs. North Andover
The rivalry between Andover High School and North Andover High School has been a focal point in Massachusetts high school football. As the 2024-25 season wraps up, the contrasting performances of these two teams provide an intriguing comparison of their seasons, strengths, and challenges. Below, we delve into the detailed statistics, team leaders, and outcomes against common opponents to give insight into their campaign.
Season Overview
Andover: The Andover team finished the season with an overall record of 5-6 and a league record of 1-1. Their win percentage stood at .455, reflecting a balanced season with notable highs and lows. The team scored an average of 20.4 points per game, showcasing solid offensive play but struggling defensively, as evidenced by 263 points allowed.
North Andover: North Andover’s season was marked by more challenges, ending with a 3-6 overall record and an 0-4 league record. Their win percentage of .333 and the lack of league victories highlighted the difficulties they faced. The team averaged 23.0 points per game, a promising offensive metric, but their defensive numbers were less favorable, conceding 217 points.
Team Performance Statistics
Scoring Analysis:
- Andover: The team was most productive in the third quarter, averaging 6.4 points, while the first quarter yielded only 4.1 points. Consistent scoring in the second half played a significant role in their overall performance.
- North Andover: They struggled to score in the first three quarters but managed to put up 3.0 points per quarter in the final quarter. Their fourth-quarter scoring reflected their ability to respond under pressure.
Team Stat Comparison:
| Statistic | Andover | North Andover |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 72.7 | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 203.5 | – |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 203.5 | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | 276.3 | – |
| Tackles Per Game | 64.1 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.5 | – |
| Points Per Game | 20.4 | 23.0 |
Individual Team Leaders
Andover:
- Marcus Dejesus led with 36.0 rushing yards per game.
- Dominic Papa demonstrated his prowess in the passing game, averaging 197.6 yards per game and contributing to a total of 225.5 yards per game.
- Julius Martinez was the top receiver with 83.8 receiving yards per game.
- Connor Acheson led the defense with 10.0 tackles per game, showing consistency in securing key stops.
- Lucas Souza contributed 0.5 sacks per game.
- Julius Martinez also contributed to the scoring, averaging 5.8 points per game.
North Andover: While specific individual statistics for North Andover were not highlighted in the provided data, the team’s efforts were evident in their consistent attempt to stay competitive.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced shared opponents, with Andover holding a 1-2 record against them and North Andover at 0-3. The results from these matchups demonstrate how each team fared against similar challenges:
- Chelmsford: Andover won 38-35, showcasing their resilience, while North Andover lost 25-20, indicating a tighter contest.
- Methuen: Andover faced a significant loss at 37-10, while North Andover suffered an even greater defeat at 53-22.
- Billerica Memorial: Andover fell 27-9, while North Andover had a closer match, losing 22-14.
Record Breakdown
| Category | Andover | North Andover |
| Overall Record | 5-6 | 3-6 |
| League Record | 1-1 | 0-4 |
| Non-League Record | 4-4 | 3-1 |
| Head-to-Head | 0-0 | 1-2 |
| Common Opponent Record | 1-2 | 0-3 |
| Home Record | 2-3 | 3-3 |
| Away Record | 3-3 | 1-3 |
Conclusion
The 2024-25 season highlighted key differences between Andover and North Andover. Andover’s ability to secure victories in non-league games and its consistent scoring in the second half were crucial to their mid-tier finish. Meanwhile, North Andover, despite showing potential in some tight contests, struggled to maintain consistency, especially in league play. This analysis not only reflects on their individual seasons but also sets the stage for future strategies and improvements as both teams prepare for the next season.
