As the 2024 high school football season heads into its most crucial stages, South Florence and North Augusta have proven themselves as two of the top contenders in South Carolina’s 4A class. Both teams have posted impressive records and are gearing up for a thrilling showdown in the postseason.

Team Overview

South Florence has compiled a solid 10-3 overall record, with an impressive 7-0 mark at home. Their only blemish in region play came in a 5-1 record, giving them an 83.3% win percentage in the region. Offensively, the team has been strong, averaging 41.8 points per game. Key players include senior quarterback Messiah Jackson, who averages 145.5 passing yards per game, and standout running back Tre Leonard, with 98.9 rushing yards per game. The offense is complemented by Jayden Sellers, who contributes 67.7 receiving yards per game.

On the defensive side, South Florence has relied on key defensive playmakers like linebacker Willie Kennedy, who averages 8.6 tackles per game, while their pass rush is anchored by Terry Gordon, who contributes 0.4 sacks per game. The team has also been solid in the trenches, boasting 16 pancake blocks on the season.

North Augusta, boasting an impressive 12-1 overall record, has been a juggernaut, especially in region play where they remain undefeated at 7-0. They average 39.6 points per game and have been particularly effective on both sides of the ball. The Yellow Jackets’ offense is spearheaded by quarterback Messiah Jackson, who has a total of 169.7 yards per game. Their passing attack and strong offensive line, with key players like receiver Jayden Sellers and offensive lineman Jayden Granger (5 pancake blocks), have helped North Augusta dominate its competition.

Defensively, North Augusta has been equally effective. They allow just 181 points all season, with standout performances from defensive players like Terry Gordon, who averages 0.2 sacks per game. Their strong tackling unit, with a total of 67.2 tackles per game, has been key in limiting opponents’ scoring.

Key Statistics and Comparison

• Rushing Game: South Florence leads the way with 278.9 rushing yards per game, thanks to Leonard’s steady ground production. North Augusta’s rushing attack is equally effective but has leaned more on its versatile offense, combining both running and passing to maintain offensive balance.
• Passing Game: Both teams have talented quarterbacks. Jackson for South Florence has thrown for 145.5 yards per game, while North Augusta’s Jackson leads with 169.7 yards per game, making the aerial attack a key battle in this matchup.
• Scoring: South Florence edges out North Augusta in scoring, averaging 41.8 points per game, while North Augusta averages 39.6. However, North Augusta’s defense has been more dominant, allowing only 181 points compared to South Florence’s 305.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have shown their prowess against common opponents this season. In their matchups with Brookland-Cayce, South Florence triumphed 56-20 at home, while North Augusta defeated the same team 56-28 at home. Both teams have demonstrated their superiority in these contests, setting the stage for a closely contested battle in the postseason.

Playoff Outlook

South Florence and North Augusta each enter the playoffs with strong credentials, with both teams boasting undefeated playoff records (South Florence 3-0, North Augusta 3-0). This sets up an exciting clash of two powerhouse teams in the state’s 4A class. With each team’s high-powered offense and tenacious defense, this game will surely be one to watch as they vie for the ultimate prize in South Carolina high school football.

Conclusion

As South Florence and North Augusta gear up for what promises to be an exciting and hard-fought postseason battle, the statistics show that both teams are more than capable of going all the way. Whether it’s South Florence’s rushing attack or North Augusta’s balanced offensive approach, fans can expect a high-energy game filled with big plays and strong defense. The stage is set for an unforgettable postseason clash in South Carolina high school football.