The Northwestern (Miami, FL) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Raines (Jacksonville, FL) today at 7:30 p.m. at Northwestern. This game is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships, 3A division.
Raines vs Northwestern High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: Raines vs Northwestern
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Raines vs Northwestern
The stage is set for an exciting matchup in the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships as the undefeated Raines High School (Jacksonville, FL) faces off against Northwestern High School (Miami, FL) today at 7:30 p.m. in a neutral playoff game at Northwestern. With both teams entering the game with impressive records, this promises to be an intense and closely contested battle.
Team Records and Performance
Raines (13-0) enters the game as the number one seed in the 3A classification, boasting an unblemished record. The team has shown its dominance throughout the season, with a perfect 8-0 record at home and a flawless 4-0 record in neutral-site games. Raines has scored an average of 46.1 points per game, with their offense led by the versatile quarterback Timothy Cole, who has thrown for over 200 yards per game, and running back Ta’darius Washington, who averages 72.2 rushing yards per game.
On the other hand, Northwestern (11-2) has also had an impressive season, though they have faced a few more challenges. With a strong 7-0 home record and a solid 4-2 mark in away games, Northwestern has proven itself to be a formidable opponent. The team scores an average of 37.1 points per game, led by quarterback Leon Strawder (205.9 passing yards per game) and receiver Darius Johnson, who averages 65.4 receiving yards per game.
Scoring and Team Stat Comparison
In terms of scoring, Raines has a slight edge, averaging 46.1 points per game compared to Northwestern’s 42.0 points. The Raines offense has been potent, particularly in the first half, averaging 15.3 points in the first quarter and 17.5 in the second. Northwestern, however, has been known to come alive in the second half, with their scoring averaging 14.0 points in the second quarter and 6.8 in the fourth.
When it comes to total yards, Raines has been a more balanced team, with 397.9 total yards per game, including 169.8 rushing yards and 228.2 passing yards. Northwestern, meanwhile, has a slightly lower total of 377.2 yards per game but excels in both the air (210.7 passing yards) and on the ground (166.5 rushing yards).
Key Players to Watch
Both teams feature standout players who can make a difference in this high-stakes game. For Raines, running back Ta’darius Washington has been a key contributor with over 70 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Timothy Cole’s passing ability makes the offense unpredictable. On the defensive side, linebacker Tony Williams leads the team with 7.8 tackles per game.
For Northwestern, quarterback Leon Strawder has been impressive, throwing for over 200 yards per game, and receiver Darius Johnson is a deep threat every time he touches the ball. Desmond Johnson has been a defensive leader with 8.3 tackles per game, while Deangelo Thompson adds pressure with 1.7 sacks per game.
A Game of Strengths
This game features two high-powered offenses and strong defensive units. Raines has a slight advantage in terms of overall scoring and balance, but Northwestern is a well-rounded team that can hold its own both in the air and on the ground. With both teams undefeated in their respective playoff games, this contest is expected to come down to the wire.
Conclusion
As Raines looks to continue its perfect season and Northwestern aims to prove its mettle, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter. The 2024 FHSAA Football State Championship 3A division playoffs are heating up, and with these two teams in peak form, this neutral-site game is sure to live up to the hype. Fans of both teams can expect an intense battle filled with big plays, strong defenses, and unforgettable moments.
