The Our Lady of Good Counsel varsity football team from Olney, MD, will face off against DeMatha from Hyattsville, MD, in a neutral-site playoff game today at 6 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 Maryland High School Football Playoff Brackets for the WCAC – Capital tournament.
What: Maryland High School Football
Who: Our Lady of Good Counsel (MD) vs DeMatha (MD)
When: Sunday, November 24, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Maryland High School Football Playoff Brackets: WCAC – Capital
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
DeMatha and Our Lady of Good Counsel: A High-Stakes Football Showdown
As the playoffs intensify, DeMatha Catholic High School (Hyattsville, MD) and Our Lady of Good Counsel (Olney, MD) are set to clash in a pivotal matchup that pits two of Maryland’s top high school football programs against one another. With DeMatha entering the game with a stellar 9-1 record and Our Lady of Good Counsel at 7-4, both teams aim to extend their postseason run in this anticipated rematch.
Season Recap: Dominance vs. Determination
DeMatha has been dominant all season, boasting a .900 win percentage and an unblemished 4-0 record in league play. Their offensive firepower, averaging 33.5 points per game, has been complemented by a stifling defense that has allowed just 94 points across ten games. DeMatha’s consistency at home (5-0) and strong away performances (4-1) highlight their adaptability.
Our Lady of Good Counsel, meanwhile, has shown resilience, achieving a respectable 7-4 record with a .750 league win percentage. While they’ve faced challenges, their defense and knack for close games have been crucial in keeping their season alive.
Head-to-Head: October Clash Recap
The teams last met on October 18th, where DeMatha delivered a commanding 35-7 victory at home. The game was a tale of two halves; DeMatha exploded for 21 points in the second quarter and maintained control throughout, while Good Counsel managed a single fourth-quarter touchdown. This performance underlined DeMatha’s ability to dominate offensively and defensively.
Statistical Comparison
Offensive Production:
- DeMatha holds the edge with balanced offensive contributions. Joseph Williams leads the rushing attack, averaging 111.4 yards per game, while Jackson Rice adds 95.6 passing yards per game.
- Good Counsel’s offense, averaging 23.7 points per game, is anchored by versatile contributors but struggles with consistency compared to DeMatha.
Defensive Impact:
- DeMatha’s defense has been a cornerstone, allowing just 9.4 points per game. Faheem Delane leads with 8.3 tackles per game, supported by Anthony Sweeney’s consistent pass-rushing presence.
- Good Counsel has allowed more points (186) over 11 games, but their defense has shown grit in key moments, including a shutout win over Gonzaga.
Key Players to Watch
- DeMatha: Joseph Williams has been the centerpiece of DeMatha’s offense, contributing 121.2 total yards per game and scoring 8.7 points per game. His ability to break big plays makes him a constant threat.
- Good Counsel: Quarterback play and defensive standouts will be critical if Good Counsel hopes to counter DeMatha’s high-powered attack.
Common Opponents: Shared Success
Both teams share an undefeated record (4-0) against common opponents, including impressive victories over Gonzaga and St. John’s. However, DeMatha’s dominant margins in these games further highlight their superior form heading into this matchup.
Game Preview: What to Expect
Tonight’s playoff game presents a chance for redemption for Good Counsel and an opportunity for DeMatha to reinforce their dominance. With DeMatha’s balanced attack and rock-solid defense, they enter as the favorites. Good Counsel, however, thrives in underdog scenarios, and their postseason experience could prove vital.
Will DeMatha continue their march toward a championship, or can Good Counsel avenge their earlier loss? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out, as kickoff is set for 6 p.m. in this neutral-site thriller.
This rematch promises intense action, strategic battles, and memorable moments—hallmarks of high school football at its finest.
