The Olentangy Berlin Bears (10-2) will host the Pickerington North Panthers (10-2) for a playoff matchup on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets, Region 3, in Ohio.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Ohio High School Football
Who: Olentangy Berlin vs Pickerington North
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio) – Region 3
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Game preview: Olentangy Berlin vs Pickerington North

The 2024-2025 high school football season has been marked by impressive performances from both Pickerington North and Olentangy Berlin, two teams with standout records. As they prepare for a potential matchup, let’s break down their season statistics, key players, and how they stack up against each other.

Team Overview

Both teams have finished the season with an impressive 10-2 overall record, each demonstrating their dominance on the field. However, their journeys to that record have been slightly different. Pickerington North finished 4-1 in the conference and 6-0 away, with a total of 429 points scored against 222 points allowed. They have a robust .833 win percentage, which reflects their ability to perform both at home and on the road.

On the other hand, Olentangy Berlin showcased an undefeated record within the conference, going 5-0 in league play and also finishing 6-0 at home. Their total points for (308) and points against (189) illustrate their solid defense, although they’ve scored fewer points than Pickerington North. Their .833 win percentage is on par with their opponents, but they’ve been more dominant in conference play with a perfect 1.000 conference win percentage.

Scoring & Team Performance

When comparing team scoring averages, Pickerington North has been particularly effective in all four quarters, with an average of 35.8 points per game, led by strong offensive stats. Their points per quarter break down as follows:

• Q1: 11.0
• Q2: 8.1
• Q3: 9.1
• Q4: 7.6

In contrast, Olentangy Berlin scores 25.7 points per game, with their points per quarter as:

• Q1: 7.1
• Q2: 8.5
• Q3: 6.0
• Q4: 5.2

While Pickerington North has been more explosive in the first half, Olentangy Berlin’s consistent scoring in the second half has often led to crucial victories, including a strong conference performance.

Team Stat Comparison

Here’s a deeper look at how the teams compare in other key metrics:

• Rushing Yards per Game: Pickerington North averages 177.7 yards, led by Michael Taylor, who rushes for an impressive 113.3 yards per game.
• Passing Yards per Game: Pickerington North also leads in passing, with Jarin Mock throwing for 188.2 yards per game.
• Total Yards per Game: Pickerington North again tops this category, with 374.3 total yards per game compared to Olentangy Berlin’s balanced play, totaling an unspecified number.

Key Players to Watch

• Michael Taylor (Pickerington North) has been the centerpiece of their rushing attack, contributing 113.3 yards per game.
• Jarin Mock (Pickerington North) has excelled in the passing game, accumulating 188.2 passing yards per game and a 200.4 total yards per game.
• Preston Bowman has been crucial for Pickerington North’s receiving game, with 85.9 receiving yards per game.

For Olentangy Berlin, although individual statistics are not detailed here, the team’s strength lies in their defense and balanced scoring, helping them shut down opponents, especially in close games like their 17-14 win over Lincoln.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced several of the same opponents, and their records against those teams offer some insight into how they compare head-to-head:

• Pickerington North holds a 3-1 record against common opponents, while Olentangy Berlin is a perfect 4-0 against the same teams.
• Notable common opponents include Thomas Worthington, Grove City, New Albany, and Lincoln. Both teams secured wins against Thomas Worthington and Grove City, with Olentangy Berlin achieving larger margin victories against those teams.

Conclusion

Both Pickerington North and Olentangy Berlin have had outstanding seasons and look poised for continued success in the playoffs. With strong defenses, potent offenses, and impressive player leadership, this matchup is one to watch closely as both teams aim for the title. Pickerington North’s offensive firepower, led by Jarin Mock and Michael Taylor, might give them the edge, but Olentangy Berlin’s perfect conference record and solid team play make them a formidable opponent. The stage is set for an exciting contest as these two powerhouse teams prepare to clash in the postseason.