The Portland (ME) varsity football team will host Thornton Academy (Saco, ME) for a home playoff game on Saturday, November 23, at 11 a.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 MPA Football Championships presented by Hammond Lumber Company in the Class A tournament.

What: Maine High School Football
Who: Portland (ME) vs Thornton Academy (ME)
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 11 a.m. ET
Where: Fitzpatrick Stadium
Bracket: 2024 MPA Football Championships presented by Hammond Lumber Company – Class A
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Thornton Academy and Portland Football Teams Prepare for Playoff Showdown

The stage is set for an exciting playoff matchup between two of Maine’s top high school football teams: Thornton Academy and Portland. Both teams have had strong seasons, boasting impressive records and talented rosters, but only one will advance further in the postseason. The game will take place on Saturday, November 23, at 11 a.m. at Portland’s home field.

Season Records and Team Strengths

Thornton Academy enters the game with an overall record of 11-2, including a perfect 5-0 mark in the region. They have been dominant both at home (6-2) and on the road (5-0). The team has averaged 40.2 points per game, with an impressive 522 total points scored throughout the season, while allowing only 177 points (an average of just 13.6 points per game). Their defense has been strong, and their balanced offense has been efficient, especially in scoring in the second quarter.

Portland has posted a 9-2 overall record, also going 5-0 in their region. Like Thornton Academy, they have been formidable at home (5-1), and their road performance (4-1) has been impressive as well. Portland averages 36.1 points per game, having scored 397 total points and allowing just 139 points (an average of 12.6 points per game). Their offense, led by a solid rushing attack and efficient passing game, has been potent, especially in the first half of games.

Key Matchup: Head-to-Head Rivalry

The two teams met earlier this season on October 19, where Portland came out victorious in a non-conference matchup. The final score was 14-7, with Portland controlling the game from start to finish. This gives Portland the upper hand in the head-to-head series heading into this crucial playoff game. Thornton Academy will be looking for revenge, and their strong postseason record will be a major factor in their confidence heading into the matchup.

Team Statistics Comparison

Both teams have excelled in multiple facets of the game this season. Thornton Academy leads in total offensive yards per game, averaging 355.5 yards, with standout performances from players like Louis Thurston, who leads in rushing (79.4 yards per game) and passing (122.9 yards per game). Additionally, Cordell Jones has been a key playmaker, leading the team in receiving yards (38.7 per game) and points (10.4 per game).

On the defensive side, Carter Lucca has been a force, averaging 6.4 tackles per game, while Lisandro Rodrigues leads the team with 0.4 sacks per game. Thornton’s offensive line has been strong, with Colin Kelly contributing 26 pancake blocks this season.

Portland, meanwhile, has a strong rushing attack, averaging 222 yards per game. They’ve been efficient in passing (133.5 yards per game) and receiving (113.9 yards per game). Their defense has been tough as well, and the team is particularly strong in the first half, outscoring opponents with 7.0 points in the first quarter and 14.3 points in the second quarter.

Common Opponents Breakdown

Both teams have had a successful season against common opponents. Thornton Academy has won against Bangor, Windham, Bonny Eagle, and South Portland, while Portland has also secured wins over Bangor, Windham, Bonny Eagle, and South Portland. Thornton Academy has a perfect 5-0 record against common opponents, while Portland is 5-1, with their only loss coming against Bonny Eagle.

Team Leaders

• Thornton Academy:
  • Rushing Yards: Louis Thurston (79.4)
  • Passing Yards: Louis Thurston (122.9)
  • Receiving Yards: Cordell Jones (38.7)
  • Total Yards: Louis Thurston (202.3)
  • Tackles: Carter Lucca (6.4)
  • Sacks: Lisandro Rodrigues (0.4)
  • Points: Cordell Jones (10.4)
  • Pancake Blocks: Colin Kelly (26)
• Portland:
  • Rushing Yards: Team (222.0)
  • Passing Yards: Team (133.5)
  • Receiving Yards: Team (113.9)
  • Total Yards: Team (355.5)
  • Tackles: Team (45.3)
  • Sacks: Team (1.4)
  • Points: Team (36.1)
  • Pancake Blocks: Team (80)

Looking Ahead: What to Expect

This playoff game is sure to be a thrilling contest, with both teams bringing high-powered offenses and formidable defenses. Portland’s victory in their earlier matchup gives them an edge, but Thornton Academy’s undefeated region record and potent scoring attack make them a dangerous opponent in this postseason clash.

Both teams are battle-tested and ready for the high stakes of playoff football. With key players stepping up and the potential for dramatic moments, the winner of this game will move one step closer to their championship aspirations.

Fans can expect a hard-fought, intense game on November 23, as both teams look to prove they have what it takes to advance in the tournament. Will Portland continue their dominance, or will Thornton Academy make a statement in the postseason? Tune in for what promises to be a memorable playoff matchup!