The Permian High School (Odessa, TX) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Eastlake (El Paso, TX) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 6A Division 1 tournament.

Permian vs Eastlake Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Permian vs Eastlake
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 6A D1
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Game preview: Permian vs Eastlake

The stage is set for an exciting high school football playoff matchup between Eastlake (El Paso, TX) and Permian (Odessa, TX) at a neutral site today at 7 p.m. Both teams come into this game with a strong 7-3 record for the 2024-2025 season, but their paths to this point have been distinct. Eastlake enters the postseason after dominating their district with a perfect 6-0 record, while Permian looks to bounce back from a tough district run, finishing 2-3. Despite their different district records, both teams are formidable contenders, boasting impressive stats and key players.

Head-to-Head History

Earlier this season, Permian and Eastlake squared off in a thrilling non-conference game, where Permian emerged victorious with a 56-49 win. The high-scoring affair showed both teams’ explosive offensive capabilities and set the stage for what could be another nail-biting encounter today.

Team Comparison

Offensive Breakdown

• Eastlake: The Eastlake offense has been a well-rounded machine, averaging 437.3 total yards per game. They rely on a balanced attack with 179.2 rushing yards and 258.1 passing yards per game. Quarterback Luke Lomeli has been a standout with 249.5 passing yards per game, while running back Steven Galindo leads the team with 102.8 rushing yards per game. The team averages 38.5 points per game, showcasing their ability to light up the scoreboard.
• Permian: Permian counters with a more run-heavy offense, averaging an impressive 299.6 rushing yards per game. Running back Gavin Black has been the engine for the Panthers’ offense, with a staggering 205.6 rushing yards per game. While they pass for just 131.6 yards per game, their overall total offense of 431.2 yards per game is nearly identical to Eastlake’s, proving their offensive efficiency.

Defensive Analysis

• Eastlake: On defense, Eastlake’s standout is linebacker Dominic Soto, who averages 11.9 tackles per game. The team also excels at pressuring the quarterback, with Maximus Ramos contributing 0.2 sacks per game. Eastlake allows 267 points across the season, giving them a points-against average of 26.7 per game, which they will need to tighten up in the postseason.
• Permian: Permian has struggled a bit on defense but has shown resilience, allowing 319 points throughout the season. They average 54.6 tackles per game, with Caleb Jamison leading the charge with 7.9 tackles per game. Their pass rush could be key in this matchup, with Ej Sullivan contributing 0.5 sacks per game. Though their defense has allowed more points, Permian’s experience in high-pressure games will be crucial.

Key Players to Watch

• Eastlake: Quarterback Luke Lomeli is the player to watch. His 249.5 passing yards per game have made him a dual-threat leader for Eastlake. Additionally, Steven Galindo’s 102.8 rushing yards per game could give Eastlake the edge in establishing a balanced offensive attack.
• Permian: Running back Gavin Black has been outstanding for Permian, averaging over 200 rushing yards per game. His ability to dominate on the ground will be key to their success, particularly in a high-scoring game. Quarterback Jakob Garcia, though not as prolific as Lomeli, can make timely passes when needed.

Game Preview: What to Expect

This playoff game promises to be an exhilarating battle, with both teams bringing potent offensive schemes to the table. Eastlake’s high-powered offense, led by Lomeli and Galindo, will challenge Permian’s defense, which has allowed more points throughout the season. On the flip side, Permian’s explosive running game, spearheaded by Black, will test Eastlake’s defensive line and linebackers.

With the stakes high and both teams possessing explosive firepower, it will be a fascinating game of strategic adjustments and execution. Fans should expect a thrilling contest that could come down to which team can make key stops and capitalize on big plays.

Will Permian repeat their early-season success, or will Eastlake avenge their earlier loss and advance further in the playoffs? Only time will tell as these two powerhouse teams clash in what promises to be a memorable playoff battle.