The Pacifica varsity football team from Oxnard, CA, will host Grant from Sacramento, CA, in an exciting playoff matchup today at 4 PM. This game, part of the 2024 CIF State Football Championship Bowl Games, Division 2-AA, promises a high-stakes showdown as both teams compete for a spot in the championship.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: California State Football Championship Bowl Games
Who: Pacifica (CA) vs Grant (CA)
When: Today, December 13, 2024
Bracket: 2024 CIF State Football Championship Bowl Games – Division 2-AA
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Grant vs. Pacifica
As Grant and Pacifica prepare to face off, their statistical profiles highlight the strengths and dynamics that could define this matchup. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their performances, key players, and season records:
Statistical Performance
Offensive Power
Grant holds a slight edge in offensive production, averaging 389.4 total yards per game, just ahead of Pacifica’s 376.1 total yards per game. Both teams display remarkable balance in their passing and rushing attacks:
- Rushing Yards: Grant averages 147.2 yards per game, compared to Pacifica’s 134.7 yards per game.
- Passing Yards: Grant edges Pacifica slightly with 242.1 passing yards per game, while Pacifica puts up 241.4 passing yards per game.
Defensive Comparison
Pacifica has a clear defensive advantage, averaging 82.7 tackles per game, significantly higher than Grant’s 44.9 tackles per game. Pacifica also leads in sacks, recording 2.3 sacks per game, compared to Grant’s 1.8 sacks per game.
Scoring Efficiency
In scoring, Grant has the upper hand, averaging 36.1 points per game, while Pacifica follows with 31.3 points per game.
Special Teams
Pacifica showcases a unique strength in the trenches with 20 pancake blocks, led by standout Chris Pike (#67), who has recorded six blocks this season.
Team Leaders
Grant’s Standouts
- Brandon Lambert (#1) leads the ground game with 108.5 rushing yards per game.
- Luke Alexander (#7) is a prolific passer, averaging 225.2 passing yards per game and 228.9 total yards per game.
- Koby “Cheese” Shabazz (#2) is a key receiving threat with 78.3 receiving yards per game.
- On defense, Jeremiah Tuiileila (#8) anchors the team with 7.9 tackles per game and 1.2 sacks per game.
- Malakai Guidry (#15) is a scoring machine, contributing 12.0 points per game.
Pacifica’s Key Players
- Alijah Royster (#2) drives the rushing attack with 49.2 yards per game and is a consistent scorer with 8.8 points per game.
- Dominic Duran (#3) is Pacifica’s offensive leader, averaging 211.3 passing yards per game and 237.9 total yards per game.
- Savion Taylor (#11) leads the receiving corps, averaging 88.3 yards per game.
- On defense, Budder Aina (#27) is a standout, averaging 12.1 tackles per game, supported by Dejuan Colvin (#97) with 0.9 sacks per game.
- Chris Pike (#67) dominates the line with six pancake blocks, emphasizing Pacifica’s physicality in the trenches.
Record Breakdown
Overall and League Performance
Grant and Pacifica share impressive overall records, with Grant at 11-3 and Pacifica at 11-4. Grant holds a perfect 5-0 league record, while Pacifica sits at 3-2 in league play.
Home and Away Success
- Grant: Thrives at home (4-1), with strong away (4-2) and neutral-site (3-0) performances.
- Pacifica: Matches Grant’s home record (4-1), with solid showings on the road (4-3) and neutral fields (3-0).
Playoff Momentum
Both teams are undefeated in the postseason, with Grant at 4-0 and Pacifica at 5-0, signaling their ability to deliver under high-stakes conditions.
Conclusion
This game promises to be a thrilling matchup between two balanced and competitive teams. Grant’s explosive offense and scoring prowess will clash with Pacifica’s defensive tenacity and physical dominance in the trenches. With both teams demonstrating strong postseason momentum, fans can expect a high-energy, closely contested battle.
