The North Augusta (SC) varsity football team will host a playoff game against Gilbert (SC) on Friday, November 29, at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAA tournament.

North Augusta vs Gilbert Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: North Augusta vs Gilbert
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: North Augusta vs Gilbert

On Friday, November 29, the North Augusta Yellow Jackets will host the Gilbert Indians in a highly anticipated South Carolina high school football playoff matchup. The two teams are no strangers, having faced off earlier this season on September 20, when North Augusta claimed a decisive 37-14 victory. This time, however, a playoff berth intensifies the stakes.

Team Profiles

North Augusta Yellow Jackets (11-1, 7-0 Region)

• State Rank: 21
• Class Rank: 6
• Points Scored: 452
• Points Allowed: 167

The Yellow Jackets are a dominant force this season, boasting a nearly perfect record and an undefeated run in their region. Their high-powered offense averages 37.7 points per game, with standout performances in the second and third quarters, where they consistently widen their leads. They last defeated Gilbert with a balanced offensive attack and a lockdown defense that forced multiple turnovers.

Key performances this season include a 56-8 demolition of Airport and a gritty 20-17 victory over Gray Collegiate Academy, showcasing their ability to win in a variety of game scenarios.

Gilbert Indians (8-4, 5-2 Region)

• State Rank: 53
• Class Rank: 13
• Points Scored: 329
• Points Allowed: 280

The Indians, despite a few stumbles, have displayed resilience throughout the season. They average 27.4 points per game and rely heavily on the versatility of star player Jack Talbert. Talbert leads Gilbert in nearly every statistical category, including rushing, passing, and tackles, emphasizing his critical role in the team’s success.

Gilbert’s key wins include a thrilling 50-49 shootout over Brookland-Cayce and a strong 52-7 victory against Aiken, proving they can rise to the occasion.

Head-to-Head: September Recap

In their September 20 clash, North Augusta set the tone early with a dominant first quarter, scoring 14 unanswered points. Gilbert struggled to find momentum, falling behind 17-7 at halftime and eventually losing 37-14.

North Augusta capitalized on their superior depth and consistency, with balanced scoring throughout all four quarters. Gilbert managed only two touchdowns, underscoring their need to adapt offensively if they hope to challenge the Yellow Jackets this time around.

Common Opponents

Both teams have shared several opponents this season, offering insights into their performance trends:

• Lexington: Both teams lost narrow games, with Gilbert falling 24-0 and North Augusta losing 20-19.
• Midland Valley: North Augusta outpaced Gilbert with a commanding 45-21 win compared to Gilbert’s tighter 35-28 victory.
• Brookland-Cayce: Gilbert edged out a dramatic 50-49 win, while North Augusta cruised to a 56-28 triumph.

North Augusta’s consistent dominance over shared opponents gives them the statistical edge heading into the playoff rematch.

Key Matchup

• Jack Talbert (Gilbert) vs. North Augusta’s Defense
  Talbert will need to deliver a near-perfect performance, as he did in Gilbert’s biggest wins, to keep the Indians competitive. North Augusta’s defense, however, has been stellar all season, holding opponents to an average of just 13.9 points per game.

What to Watch For

• North Augusta’s Start: Can the Yellow Jackets replicate their strong opening from the first matchup?
• Gilbert’s Adjustments: Will the Indians find a way to counter North Augusta’s balanced attack?
• Momentum Swings: With both teams deep into their playoff runs, a big play or turnover could determine the outcome.

Prediction

Given North Augusta’s consistent dominance, undefeated regional record, and prior win against Gilbert, they enter the game as clear favorites. However, if Gilbert can unlock their offense and leverage Talbert’s versatility, they could challenge the Yellow Jackets.

Prediction: North Augusta 34, Gilbert 20