The Pilgrim (Warwick, RI) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Ponaganset (North Scituate, RI) on Friday, November 15, at 7:00 PM. This game is part of the “RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – Division 3 Championship Bracket” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Rhode Island High School Football
Who: Pilgrim vs Ponaganset
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: RIIL Football Championships Fall 2024 – Division 3 Championship Bracket
Watch here: Watch here

Game preview: Pilgrim vs Ponaganset

The Ponaganset (North Scituate, RI) and Pilgrim (Warwick, RI) varsity football teams are set for an exciting playoff rematch on Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m., following a dominant 40-14 win by Ponaganset in their previous meeting this month. With both teams entering the game with impressive records, this playoff battle promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Team Overview

Ponaganset (8-1 overall, 7-1 league) has enjoyed a stellar season, ranking among the top teams in Rhode Island’s Division 11 with a .889 win percentage. The team has proven to be a force on both sides of the ball, averaging 38.4 points per game. Their strong rushing game, led by standout Kaleb Rock (77.3 yards per game), and a well-balanced passing attack, has allowed them to dominate their opponents. On defense, Ponaganset is equally impressive, giving up just 134 points all season. Their well-rounded offensive and defensive units have carried them through a challenging regular season.

Pilgrim (6-3 overall, 5-3 league), on the other hand, has faced more ups and downs but is still a formidable team in the Division 20 race. With a .667 win percentage, Pilgrim has struggled at times in away games but has been dominant at home. The Pilgrims score an average of 24.4 points per game, but their offensive production has been inconsistent, especially in the second half of games. Their defense has given up 226 points throughout the season, which might prove challenging against a high-powered Ponaganset offense.

Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense

Ponaganset’s offense, which averages over 300 total yards per game, will be the key to their success in this game. They are particularly strong in rushing yards, with an average of 202.2 yards per game. Pilgrim’s defense, which has struggled to contain opponents’ rushing attacks, will need to step up to the challenge. Pilgrim’s offense, led by quarterback Carter Clifton (154.4 passing yards per game), will need to find a way to stay consistent against Ponaganset’s defense.

Recent Results and Head-to-Head

In their previous encounter on November 1, Ponaganset decisively defeated Pilgrim 40-14, a scoreline that reflects their dominance in the game. Ponaganset’s offense was explosive, while Pilgrim’s defense had no answer for the offensive juggernaut. Now, Pilgrim will need to adjust, particularly on defense, to prevent a repeat performance.

Both teams have faced similar opponents throughout the season, with each team holding a 3-1 record against common foes, including wins over East Greenwich, Mt. Hope, and Cranston East. Ponaganset’s only loss came against Classical, while Pilgrim fell to Mt. Hope and Classical, showing that both teams are vulnerable against top-tier competition.

Playoff Implications

With the playoff implications high, this game is crucial for both teams. A victory would not only help secure a spot in the next round but also give a psychological edge heading into the deeper stages of the playoffs. Ponaganset enters the game as the higher seed, with a superior record and a better overall performance this season, but Pilgrim will have the advantage of playing at home, where they’ve been perfect so far.

Key Players to Watch

• Ponaganset: Kaleb Rock, who leads the team with 77.3 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Robert Grenga, who has passed for 106 yards per game, will be key in executing the offense. On defense, Donavan Sacchi has been a standout, averaging 3.9 tackles per game.
• Pilgrim: Carter Clifton has been the driving force of Pilgrim’s passing game with 154.4 passing yards per game, while Jacob Soulliere (92.6 rushing yards per game) will need to break through Ponaganset’s defensive line.

Conclusion

This playoff clash between Ponaganset and Pilgrim is shaping up to be an exciting and competitive match. Ponaganset’s high-scoring offense and strong defense make them the favorites, but Pilgrim’s resilience at home could provide the spark needed to upset their higher-seeded rivals. With both teams in top form, expect a thrilling game on Friday night.