The Pickford (MI) varsity football team will face Deckerville (MI) in a neutral playoff game today at 11:00 AM. This matchup is part of the “2024 Michigan High School Football Playoff Brackets: MHSAA – 8-Man 1” tournament.
What: Michigan High School Football
Who: Pickford (MI) vs Deckerville (MI)
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 11:00 a.m. ET
Where: Superior Dome- Marquette, MI
Bracket: 2024 Michigan High School Football Playoff Brackets: MHSAA – 8-Man 1
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
Deckerville vs. Pickford: A Clash of Michigan High School Football Titans
High school football fans in Michigan are treated to a showdown between two undefeated powerhouses this season: Deckerville and Pickford. Both teams boast impressive 12-0 records, dominating their leagues and making strong cases for state supremacy. Here’s a closer look at how these two teams stack up.
Team Rankings and Records
Deckerville ranks second in Michigan’s Class 2, while Pickford claims the top spot in Class 1. On a national level, Pickford outpaces Deckerville, sitting at #84 compared to Deckerville’s #147. However, both teams share perfect records in their overall season, league play, home and away games, showcasing consistency and dominance.
| Category | Deckerville | Pickford |
|---|---|---|
| National Rank | 147 | 84 |
| Michigan Rank | 2 | 1 |
| Class Rank | 2 | 1 |
| Overall Record | 12-0 | 12-0 |
| League Record | 7-0 | 5-0 |
| Home Record | 8-0 | 7-0 |
| Away Record | 4-0 | 3-0 |
Offensive and Defensive Prowess
Pickford’s explosive offense is evident in their scoring, averaging 53.3 points per game and outscoring opponents 639-96. Deckerville, while slightly behind in total scoring, averages 43.4 points per game with a point differential of 589-196.
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring:
- Deckerville: Strong in the first three quarters, they average 13.4 points in Q1, peaking at 17.2 in Q2, and taper off in Q4 with just 4.4 points.
- Pickford: Exceptional in the first half, averaging 16.0 points in Q1 and an impressive 28.0 in Q2, often deciding games early.
Team Statistics
Deckerville focuses on a balanced offensive attack, averaging 384.8 total yards per game, including 308.1 rushing yards and 76.8 passing yards. Their defensive efforts include 54.7 tackles per game and 2.2 sacks.
| Stat | Deckerville | Pickford |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 308.1 | – |
| Passing Yards/Game | 76.8 | – |
| Total Yards/Game | 384.8 | – |
| Points/Game | 43.4 | 53.3 |
| Tackles/Game | 54.7 | – |
| Sacks/Game | 2.2 | – |
Key Players
Deckerville’s star player, Hunter Garza (#7), leads in multiple categories, contributing 142.8 rushing yards per game, 73.1 passing yards per game, and 215.9 total yards per game. His ability to influence both the ground and air game sets him apart. Defensive leader Brandon Salowitz (#2) averages 9.2 tackles per game, anchoring the Eagles’ defense.
| Deckerville Leaders | Stat |
|---|---|
| #7 Hunter Garza | 142.8 Rushing Yards/Game |
| #7 Hunter Garza | 73.1 Passing Yards/Game |
| #3 Logan Martin | 45.4 Receiving Yards/Game |
| #2 Brandon Salowitz | 9.2 Tackles/Game |
| #30 Preston Holman | 1.0 Sacks/Game |
Playoff Outlook
Both teams are undefeated in playoff play, with Deckerville and Pickford maintaining perfect in-state records. The two have yet to meet directly, but if they cross paths, the matchup promises to be a battle of strategic prowess and raw talent.
Conclusion
Deckerville and Pickford represent the pinnacle of Michigan high school football, with each team excelling in unique areas. Deckerville’s balanced attack contrasts with Pickford’s high-octane scoring, setting the stage for an exciting rivalry if they meet on the field. For now, fans can only speculate which powerhouse will emerge victorious in this epic clash of undefeated teams.
