The Arlington Heights (Fort Worth, TX) varsity football team will host a playoff game against Richland (North Richland Hills, TX) on Friday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m. at FWISD Farrington Field. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Richland vs Arlington Heights Football Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Richland vs Arlington Heights
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
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Game preview: Richland vs Arlington Heights

In a highly anticipated matchup between two Texas high school football powerhouses, Richland (8-2) will face off against Arlington Heights (9-1) for a thrilling contest that promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and determination. Both teams have had impressive seasons, and this game is expected to highlight their strengths and test their resolve.

Season Overview: Richland vs. Arlington Heights

Richland has posted a solid 8-2 record this season, including a 6-2 district record, with a strong home performance (6-0) and a slightly less dominant away record (2-2). Richland has scored an impressive 484 points while allowing 254, averaging 48.4 points per game and showing significant offensive power.

On the other hand, Arlington Heights has a near-perfect record of 9-1, with an even more dominant district performance of 7-1. The team has excelled at both home (5-1) and away (4-0) games, scoring 459 points while allowing only 114. Their defense has been particularly formidable, surrendering fewer points per game than Richland, making them a tough opponent.

Scoring Averages Comparison

Looking at the scoring breakdown, Richland has been particularly explosive in the first half, averaging 14.6 points in the first quarter and 17.5 in the second. They continue their offensive momentum into the third quarter (9.7 points) but see a dip in the fourth quarter (6.6 points). Still, their ability to consistently put points on the board throughout the game is one of their key strengths.

In comparison, Arlington Heights shows a more balanced scoring pattern, averaging 15.2 points in the first quarter and 14.2 in the second. They typically score fewer points in the second half, with 7.5 in the third quarter and 5.8 in the fourth, but their overall ability to shut down opposing offenses has been a key factor in their success.

Offensive & Defensive Breakdown

Both teams feature powerful offenses, but their approaches differ. Richland has been more pass-heavy, with an average of 302.8 passing yards per game, compared to Arlington Heights, who rely more on the ground game, averaging 223.9 rushing yards per game. However, Arlington Heights is also efficient in the air, with 154.9 passing yards per game, just slightly less than Richland’s receiving yards per game (156.2).

Richland’s total offense averages 431.2 yards per game, while Arlington Heights averages 378.8. Both teams have dynamic players leading the charge, with Richland’s Mike Turner leading the team with 69.5 rushing yards per game and Arlington Heights’ Carson James rushing for an impressive 109.0 yards per game.

Defensive Strengths

When it comes to defense, Arlington Heights has the edge in sacks, averaging 3.2 sacks per game compared to Richland’s 0.6, reflecting their aggressive and fast pass rush. However, Richland has shown more consistency in tackles, averaging 74.9 tackles per game, slightly ahead of Arlington Heights, who average 73.1.

Key Players to Watch

Richland’s offensive leader, Mike Turner, has been outstanding this season, with 12.0 points per game, and is the player to watch in their backfield. Drew Kates, Richland’s quarterback, has passed for 273.2 yards per game and is a key factor in their passing game.

For Arlington Heights, Carson James is the star of their rushing attack, with 109.0 yards per game, while Kaeden Grant, their quarterback, has thrown for 149.9 yards per game, offering a potent dual-threat offensive setup. Deshawn Long and Christopher Wrighten lead the receiving corps, making them a well-rounded unit capable of attacking from all angles.

Head-to-Head Comparison

• Richland has the slight advantage in overall offensive yards (431.2 to 378.8) but will face a more aggressive pass rush and solid defense from Arlington Heights.
• Both teams are efficient at scoring, but Arlington Heights has been particularly dominant defensively, allowing just 114 points this season.
• Richland’s offensive balance, combining the pass and run, will be tested by the aggressive defensive schemes of Arlington Heights, who have been shutting down teams with their strong defensive line and coverage.

Conclusion

This high school football game is set to be a clash of contrasting styles. Richland’s potent offensive attack will meet Arlington Heights’ tough defense and rushing game. With both teams coming off impressive seasons and boasting standout players, fans can expect a nail-biting contest. The key will likely be which team can execute their game plan more effectively—whether Richland’s passing game can outpace Arlington Heights’ defense or if Arlington Heights’ dominance on the ground will overpower Richland’s offense. Regardless, this is a matchup you won’t want to miss!