The Notre Dame (Crowley, LA) varsity football team will play a home playoff game against Lafayette Christian Academy (Lafayette, LA) on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 LHSAA Football Playoffs (Louisiana) – Division III Select tournament.

What: Louisiana High School Football
Who: Notre Dame (LA) vs Lafayette Christian Academy (LA)
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 LHSAA Football Playoffs (Louisiana) – Division III Select
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Lafayette Christian Academy vs. Notre Dame: A High-Stakes Football Showdown

As the 2024-2025 football season progresses, a thrilling matchup is set to take place between Lafayette Christian Academy (LCA) and Notre Dame on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. This playoff game promises to be a fierce contest between two teams with contrasting records and unique strengths.

Season Overview

Lafayette Christian Academy (LCA) enters the game with a 5-6 overall record, having finished the district season at 3-1. They’ve had a solid home record of 3-2 but have struggled on the road with a 2-4 mark. Their offensive output averages 37.6 points per game, with standout performances from key players like Jalen Noel, who leads the team with 82 rushing yards per game. Despite their offensive talent, LCA has shown inconsistencies, particularly in the second half of games, as reflected in their overall performance across quarters.

On the other hand, Notre Dame has had a stronger season, finishing with a 6-4 record and a perfect 3-0 mark in district play. Their overall win percentage stands at .600, and they have been dominant at home with a 4-1 record. Their offensive game is balanced, averaging 35.4 points per game, and they will look to continue their strong performance after a 42-28 victory over LCA earlier in the season. Players like Braylon Walker, who averages 209.4 passing yards per game, have been instrumental in Notre Dame’s success.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The last meeting between these two teams took place on October 18, 2024, when Notre Dame secured a convincing 42-28 win over LCA. Despite a strong second-quarter push from LCA, Notre Dame dominated early with a 21-point first quarter and never looked back. The victory was a testament to Notre Dame’s consistency on both offense and defense, particularly their ability to manage the game from start to finish.

Key Players and Stats

Lafayette Christian Academy:

• Jalen Noel – 82.0 rushing yards per game
• Braylon Walker – 209.4 passing yards per game
• Brayden Allen – 97.8 receiving yards per game
• Kaleb Simon – 7.7 tackles per game
• Jaeden Winters – 1.5 sacks per game

Notre Dame:

• Braylon Walker – 255.4 total yards per game
• Kaleb Campbell – 2 pancake blocks
• Kaleb Simon – 7.7 tackles per game

Game Preview

This playoff matchup will be a battle of offense versus defense, with LCA’s high-scoring attack (averaging 37.6 points per game) facing off against Notre Dame’s balanced and disciplined game plan. LCA will need to adjust after their previous loss, particularly in terms of defending Notre Dame’s fast-paced offense, which has been effective in both passing and running situations. The leadership of Jalen Noel in the backfield and Braylon Walker’s dynamic passing game will be key for LCA to stay competitive.

For Notre Dame, the focus will be on maintaining their dominant form. Having already proven their ability to handle high-pressure situations, they will lean on their defensive prowess and balanced offense to control the tempo. Look for a heavy dose of passing from Braylon Walker, along with strong defensive performances from players like Kaleb Simon, who will be crucial in containing LCA’s playmakers.

Common Opponents

Both teams have shown strength against common opponents this season. Lafayette Christian Academy and Notre Dame each boast a 3-0 record against teams like Lake Arthur, Welsh, and Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy. However, the way they’ve managed these victories—Notre Dame with a more dominant average score—indicates they may have the upper hand heading into the playoff clash.

Conclusion

As Lafayette Christian Academy heads to Notre Dame for this crucial playoff contest, both teams are ready to give it their all. With both squads featuring top-tier athletes and contrasting styles of play, this game will be one to watch. For LCA, it’s a chance to avenge their earlier loss and advance in the playoffs, while Notre Dame will look to prove their dominance once again on their home field. Football fans are in for an exciting matchup this Friday night!