The Northwestern (Rock Hill, SC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Gaffney (SC) on Friday, December 6 at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2 tournament.

Northwestern vs Gaffney Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Northwestern vs Gaffney
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2
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Game preview: Northwestern vs Gaffney

As the high school football season in South Carolina heats up, two teams stand out as dominant forces in their respective classifications—Gaffney and Northwestern. With impressive records and high-powered offenses, both teams are poised to make a deep run in the postseason. Here’s a breakdown of their seasons so far, with a comparison of key stats and players.

Gaffney Indians: A Season to Remember

The Gaffney Indians (10-1 overall, 5-1 in the region) have proven themselves to be one of the top teams in Class 5A. Their only loss this season came against a tough opponent, but they have more than made up for it with dominant performances across the board. Averaging 30.6 points per game, Gaffney’s offense has been clicking, thanks in part to strong contributions from players like Jayvon Gilmore (189.6 passing yards per game) and Jaiden McDowell (58.6 rushing yards per game).

The Indians have been able to put up solid rushing yards (170.5 per game), but their passing game has been their primary weapon, averaging 194.9 yards per game. Defensively, Gaffney’s stats reflect their ability to disrupt opposing offenses, with 38.9 tackles per game and 2.5 sacks per game.

With a balanced offensive attack and a defense that can keep teams in check, Gaffney will be a formidable opponent in the postseason.

Northwestern Trojans: Undefeated and Unstoppable

Northwestern has been a force to be reckoned with in South Carolina Class 4A football. With a perfect 12-0 record and a 6-0 mark in region play, the Trojans have shown no signs of slowing down. Averaging 49.8 points per game, their offense is firing on all cylinders. Led by quarterback Finley Polk, who is averaging a remarkable 245.4 passing yards per game, and running back Zymier Gordon-Miles, who has put up 88.8 rushing yards per game, Northwestern’s offensive unit has been incredibly efficient.

In addition to their offensive prowess, the Trojans have been stellar on defense, averaging 54.3 tackles per game and 2.4 sacks per game. With a balanced attack and a stifling defense, Northwestern looks like one of the most complete teams in the state.

Offensive Firepower: Comparing the Two Teams

When it comes to scoring, Northwestern has the edge, averaging 49.8 points per game, compared to Gaffney’s 30.6. However, Gaffney’s offense has been highly efficient as well, with quarterback Jayvon Gilmore leading the charge through the air. On the ground, Gaffney averages 170.5 rushing yards per game, just slightly ahead of Northwestern’s 161.3.

In the passing game, Northwestern has the advantage, with 262.8 passing yards per game, compared to Gaffney’s 194.9. Northwestern’s wide receivers, led by Kameron Vance (79.4 receiving yards per game), have been a key factor in their high-scoring offense.

Defensively, Gaffney has been solid with 38.9 tackles per game, but Northwestern outshines them in this category with 54.3 tackles per game. Both teams excel in creating pressure on the quarterback, with Northwestern’s 2.4 sacks per game slightly ahead of Gaffney’s 2.5.

Key Players to Watch

For Gaffney, all eyes are on quarterback Jayvon Gilmore and running back Jaiden McDowell. Gilmore has thrown for 189.6 yards per game, while McDowell has rushed for 58.6 yards per game, offering a potent offensive combination. Defensively, linebacker Zyon Ratchford (5.6 tackles per game) will be critical in containing opposing offenses.

On the other side, Northwestern’s Finley Polk has been stellar with his 245.4 passing yards per game, while Zymier Gordon-Miles has been an explosive force in the run game. Defensively, linebacker Will Massey, who averages 7.0 tackles per game, will be key in keeping the opposition’s offense in check.

Head-to-Head Comparison

While Gaffney and Northwestern have yet to meet this season, their paths may cross in the postseason, and both teams have impressive records to back their potential. Gaffney has posted a strong 9-1 record against in-state teams and a perfect 2-0 record in playoff games. Northwestern, meanwhile, is undefeated against both in-state and out-of-state opponents, with an 11-0 record against teams within the state.

Both teams are excellent at home, with Gaffney going 5-0 at home and Northwestern perfect on the road with a 6-0 record.

Conclusion: The Stage Is Set

With both teams enjoying standout seasons, Gaffney and Northwestern are among the top football programs in South Carolina. Northwestern has dominated with a high-scoring offense and a strong defense, while Gaffney has balanced its game with strong offensive and defensive performances. If these two teams meet in the playoffs, it promises to be a thrilling clash of styles and talent, making it a game no fan will want to miss.