The Rappahannock varsity football team (Warsaw, VA) will host Essex (Tappahannock, VA) in a home playoff game today at 1 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Rappahannock vs Essex
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Rappahannock vs. Essex: A Playoff Showdown with High Stakes

In a highly anticipated rematch, the Essex Trojans (11-1) will face the undefeated Rappahannock Raiders (12-0) today in a crucial away playoff game. Both teams have demonstrated dominance throughout the season, making this matchup one of the most compelling contests in Virginia’s high school football playoffs.

Season Records and Rankings

Rappahannock enters the game with an unblemished record, ranked 124th in the state and 3rd in their division, boasting a perfect regional win percentage of 1.000. Essex, ranked 172nd in the state and 5th in their division, has an impressive 11-1 record with a .917 overall win percentage. Despite their stellar season, Essex’s lone defeat came at the hands of Rappahannock in a narrow 13-8 loss earlier this season on October 11.

Team Scoring Averages and Strengths

Both teams have potent offenses, with Essex averaging 47.3 points per game and Rappahannock closely behind at 46.8. However, the scoring trends reveal different styles of play:

• Essex: Starts strong in the first quarter, averaging 22 points, but tapers off in later quarters.
• Rappahannock: Displays balance, scoring consistently across the first three quarters with a second-quarter surge averaging 20.3 points.

Defensively, Rappahannock has allowed 140 points this season, compared to Essex’s stifling defense, which has conceded just 55 points.

Player Spotlight

Essex:

• Kenneth Madison leads with an impressive 184.5 rushing yards per game and contributes significantly with 21.8 points per game.
• CJ Kelly adds versatility through the air, averaging 65.6 passing yards per game.

Rappahannock:

• Known for a well-rounded team effort rather than standout individual performances, Rappahannock’s balanced offensive and defensive output has been key to their undefeated season.

Common Opponents and Head-to-Head

Both teams have faced similar competition, with Essex going 7-0 and Rappahannock 9-0 against common opponents. The prior matchup between these two was a defensive battle, with Rappahannock edging Essex 13-8.

Key to Victory

For Essex, success will hinge on Kenneth Madison’s ability to establish the run and a defense that can stifle Rappahannock’s balanced attack. Conversely, Rappahannock will aim to replicate their earlier victory with disciplined defense and sustained offensive pressure, especially in the second quarter, where they thrive.

Conclusion

With both teams showcasing dominant seasons, today’s playoff game promises to be a thrilling clash of powerhouses. Essex is eager for redemption, while Rappahannock looks to maintain their perfect record and continue their playoff march. Fans can expect a high-intensity, closely contested battle that could come down to the final moments.