The Radford (VA) varsity football team will host Gretna (VA) for a home playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Radford vs Gretna
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 2 “
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

High School Football Showdown: Gretna vs. Radford

In a thrilling comparison of two high-performing high school football teams from Virginia, Gretna and Radford stand out with near-identical records, but distinct styles of play and key player differences. Both teams finished their seasons with impressive 8-3 records and are prepared to face off in what promises to be an exciting contest. Let’s break down how these teams stack up against each other in terms of scoring, statistics, and player leadership.

Team Performance Breakdown

Gretna has been dominant with an overall record of 8-3, including an impressive 5-1 region record, which gives them a win percentage of .727 in both overall and regional play. Their offense has put up a strong average of 32.2 points per game, with a well-balanced attack that combines both a potent passing game and solid rushing yards. The team’s offense, averaging 367.3 total yards per game, is led by Khalil Waller, who is the key to the rushing game with an impressive 55.7 yards per game.

Radford, on the other hand, also boasts an 8-3 overall record and an equally strong regional performance with a 4-2 mark. Their offense averages 26.7 points per game, slightly fewer than Gretna, but they are still a formidable opponent with 248.5 total yards per game. Luke Gaither leads the team, ranking as the top passer with 216.1 yards per game. Radford’s offensive strategy relies more on passing, and Gaither’s consistent playmaking has been key to their offensive output.

Offensive Stats and Key Players

When comparing the two teams’ offensive yards per game, Gretna leads with 140.2 rushing yards and 227.1 passing yards. They are more balanced, able to move the ball effectively both on the ground and through the air. In contrast, Radford has been primarily a passing team, accumulating 198.9 yards per game in the air, but struggling to get much going on the ground with just 49.5 rushing yards per game.

Key players on each team have made significant impacts. For Gretna, Rayshaun Logan has been a standout, leading the team in passing yards per game with 227.1, and total yards with 242.7. Keyshawn Witcher, a dynamic receiver, adds a receiving threat with 105 yards per game. On the defensive side, Reneer Jones stands out with 14.2 tackles per game, leading the defense with solid coverage and tackling.

For Radford, the standout is Luke Gaither, whose 216.1 passing yards per game have helped fuel the offense. Jaden Hendricks, a reliable receiver, contributes with 68.8 receiving yards per game. On the defensive side, Cole Martin is a strong tackler, with 11.0 tackles per game, providing leadership to a defense that has allowed 195 points, the same as Gretna.

Scoring and Stat Comparison

Both teams have a strong offensive presence, but Gretna has been the more potent team overall, scoring an average of 32.2 points per game, compared to Radford’s 26.7. The disparity is clear when examining how each team scores across the four quarters. Gretna scores 11.2 points in the first quarter and maintains a balanced offense throughout the game. In contrast, Radford starts slower, averaging just 8.8 points in the first quarter and significantly dropping off in the second half.

In terms of defense, both teams are solid, with Gretna averaging 80.3 tackles per game, while Radford has 40.6 tackles per game. The sack numbers are also comparable, with Gretna averaging 1.5 sacks per game and Radford slightly behind at 1.4 sacks per game. This defensive efficiency will be key in controlling the pace of the game and limiting scoring opportunities.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Gretna has a clear edge in overall offensive balance. They possess the ability to run and pass effectively, making them difficult to defend against. The team’s ability to control both aspects of the game, along with their superior tackling and defensive statistics, puts them in a strong position to take control of this matchup.

Radford, while a strong team, will need to rely on their passing game to keep up with Gretna. Their lack of a strong rushing attack could hurt them, especially against a team that can dominate in both the air and on the ground. However, with a quarterback like Gaither, Radford can never be counted out, and their defense will need to step up to hold back Gretna’s scoring power.

Conclusion

With both teams coming into the matchup with identical 8-3 records and strong performances in their respective regions, it’s clear that the game will be a battle of contrasting styles. Gretna’s versatility and balanced offense will face off against Radford’s potent passing attack. The key for Radford will be to stifle Gretna’s multi-faceted offense, while Gretna will need to stay aggressive and take advantage of their ability to run and pass.

As the teams prepare to meet on the field, it’s shaping up to be an exciting contest with plenty of star power, from Gretna’s dynamic playmakers to Radford’s formidable quarterback. Whoever can execute their game plan more effectively will likely walk away victorious.