The Los Molinos (CA) varsity football team faces Maxwell (CA) in an exciting neutral playoff matchup today at 7 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 Northern Section Football Playoffs – D5 Football NSCIF 2024 tournament, with both teams competing fiercely for a chance to advance in the postseason.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: California High School Flag Football Playoff
Who: Maxwell vs Los Molinos
When: Today, November 27, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Maxwell vs. Los Molinos: A Clash for D5 Football Playoff Glory
The stage is set for an intense showdown as Maxwell and Los Molinos face off in a neutral playoff game in the 2024 Northern Section Football Playoffs – D5 Football NSCIF 2024 tournament. Both teams bring different strengths to the field, promising an electrifying contest.
Maxwell: A Season of Dominance
Maxwell enters the game with a stellar 11-1 overall record, ranking 18th in their section and 1st in their division. Their strong league performance (5-1) and flawless home record (6-0) demonstrate their consistency throughout the season. Averaging 40.5 points per game, Maxwell’s offense has been relentless, particularly in the second quarter, where they average a whopping 16 points.
Defensively, Maxwell has allowed 230 points across the season, showcasing a balanced game plan that has allowed them to dominate most opponents. Their only loss came on the road, but their 5-1 away record still reflects their ability to handle pressure in challenging environments.
Los Molinos: The Underdog with Potential
Los Molinos comes into this matchup with a 7-5 overall record, ranked 25th in their section and 3rd in their division. While their season has been less dominant, the Bulldogs have demonstrated resilience, especially in high-pressure situations. Their 6-point overtime average highlights their ability to stay competitive late in games.
Offensively, Los Molinos averages 33.3 points per game, with a strong showing in the first three quarters, where they consistently score over 12 points. However, their defense has been less consistent, allowing 401 points this season, which could pose a challenge against Maxwell’s high-powered offense.
Key Matchup: Maxwell’s Balanced Game vs. Los Molinos’ Resilience
Maxwell’s ability to capitalize on the second quarter and maintain momentum throughout the game could be the deciding factor. On the other hand, Los Molinos’ knack for performing in overtime and their balanced scoring across quarters makes them a team that can’t be underestimated.
What’s at Stake
This playoff game represents a crucial opportunity for both teams. Maxwell aims to continue their dominant season and push for the championship, while Los Molinos looks to leverage their resilience and pull off an upset. With contrasting styles and strengths, this matchup promises to be a thrilling battle for D5 football supremacy.
Team Statistics Overview
Maxwell has established itself as a balanced team, excelling in both the passing and rushing games. Their 385.2 total yards per game and 37.8 points per game reflect a well-rounded offense. In contrast, Los Molinos dominates the ground game, averaging an impressive 337.2 rushing yards per game, but slightly lags in passing and receiving yards compared to Maxwell.
Defensively, Maxwell demonstrates greater tackling efficiency with 73.3 tackles per game, while Los Molinos boasts a superior pass rush, recording 3.7 sacks per game compared to Maxwell’s 1.0.
Key Players
- Maxwell:
- Erik New (#9): A versatile weapon for Maxwell, New leads the team in rushing with 111.3 yards per game, receiving with 36.5 yards per game, and points scored at 13.0 per game. Defensively, he adds value with 10.3 tackles per game.
- Noel Velazquez (#2): A reliable quarterback, Velazquez averages 156.3 passing yards per game, contributing to Maxwell’s balanced attack.
- Los Molinos:
- Harrison Hamre (#8): The standout running back is the heartbeat of Los Molinos’ offense, averaging a remarkable 230.8 rushing yards per game and 16.0 points per game.
- Wyatt Gillett (#44): A defensive anchor, Gillett leads the team with 11.3 tackles per game, while Parker Heitman (#22) shines as a pass rusher with 1.4 sacks per game.
Head-to-Head and Common Opponents
Maxwell holds the upper hand in head-to-head matchups, having defeated Los Molinos earlier in the season. Against common opponents, Maxwell is slightly more consistent with a 5-1 record, compared to Los Molinos’ 4-2.
Notable results include:
- Both teams secured wins against Weed and Portola, showcasing their offensive capabilities.
- Maxwell edged Hamilton in a close 35-28 victory, while Los Molinos fell to the same opponent, 62-36, revealing vulnerabilities in their defense.
- Los Molinos had a strong showing against Quincy with a 6-0 victory, while Maxwell scored a more decisive 43-23 win over the same team.
Record Breakdown
Maxwell’s 11-1 overall record underscores their consistency and dominance this season. Their perfect 6-0 home record and undefeated playoff performances highlight their ability to perform under pressure. On the other hand, Los Molinos’ 7-5 overall record reflects a more uneven season, but their rushing attack has been a consistent bright spot.
Key Insights
- Maxwell’s Balance vs. Los Molinos’ Ground Game:
Maxwell’s ability to balance the passing and rushing game gives them versatility, while Los Molinos relies heavily on their ground attack, led by Hamre. - Defensive Comparison:
Maxwell’s strong tackling numbers may neutralize Los Molinos’ rushing game, but Los Molinos’ pass rush could disrupt Velazquez’s efficiency. - Star Performers:
Both teams lean heavily on their stars—Erik New and Harrison Hamre—making their individual performances critical to their teams’ success.
Conclusion
Maxwell and Los Molinos offer an exciting contrast in styles, with Maxwell’s balanced offense and strong tackling facing off against Los Molinos’ dynamic rushing attack and aggressive pass rush. While Maxwell has shown consistency throughout the season, Los Molinos remains a dangerous team capable of explosive plays. This matchup could come down to which team’s stars shine the brightest.
