The Ridgeline High School varsity football team from Millville, UT, will face off against Spanish Fork High School in a neutral playoff game on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Football
Who: Corner Canyon (UT) vs Lehi (UT)
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 6:00. p.m. ET
“2024 UHSAA – Football State Championships – 4A Football Championship”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Preview of Spanish Fork vs. Ridgeline Football Showdown: A Clash of Titans

As we approach one of the most highly anticipated high school football games of the year in Utah, Spanish Fork and Ridgeline prepare to face off. Both teams bring impressive records and formidable statistics, making this game a must-watch for fans and a challenge for players on both sides. Here, we’ll delve into the numbers, strengths, and storylines surrounding these two powerhouse teams.

Team Records and Rankings

Spanish Fork and Ridgeline both have standout seasons with only a few key differences. Spanish Fork currently holds an impressive 10-2 record, sitting as the second-ranked team in their region and 20th overall in the state. Ridgeline, however, boasts a perfect 12-0 record, ranking as the top team in their class and 7th in Utah overall. Ridgeline’s unblemished record and dominance on both home and away games make them the favored team statistically, though Spanish Fork’s stellar play means they’re certainly capable of competing at the highest level.

Offensive Powerhouses: Scoring and Yardage

When looking at scoring averages, these teams are almost evenly matched. Spanish Fork averages 43.2 points per game, while Ridgeline is close behind with 43.1 points. Quarter-by-quarter, Spanish Fork tends to score heavily in the first two quarters, averaging nearly 28.2 points in the first half alone. Ridgeline also has a strong opening but performs consistently across all quarters.

In terms of total yardage, Spanish Fork has a slight edge, averaging 494.8 yards per game compared to Ridgeline’s 436.8. The playstyle of Spanish Fork leans towards a stronger ground game with 254.7 rushing yards per game, whereas Ridgeline’s strengths lie in passing, clocking in at 245.4 passing yards per game.

Star Players to Watch

Key players from each team will be instrumental in deciding the game’s outcome:

• Spanish Fork: Quarterback McKay Smith has been phenomenal, averaging 232.7 passing yards per game and 238.8 total yards. Running back Kaden Vest adds a powerful rushing game, averaging 194.1 rushing yards per game. Receiver Brock Jacobson also makes his mark with 102.6 receiving yards and 5.6 tackles per game.
• Ridgeline: QB Nate Dahle mirrors Smith’s effectiveness, averaging 237.5 passing yards and 261.2 total yards. Running back JT White is equally impressive, with 128.5 rushing yards per game, while receiver Graham Livingston stands out with 126.3 receiving yards per game.

Defense and Team Tackling

Defensively, Ridgeline has an edge with 67.9 tackles per game compared to Spanish Fork’s 48.6. Ridgeline’s pass rush has also been stronger, averaging 4 sacks per game as opposed to Spanish Fork’s 1.1. This heightened defense could give Ridgeline a crucial advantage in preventing Spanish Fork’s high-powered offense from taking control.

Common Opponents and Performance

Both teams faced off against Sky View and West Field earlier in the season, with each securing decisive victories. Spanish Fork defeated Sky View 47-28 and West Field 49-20, while Ridgeline took Sky View down 56-13 and West Field 45-7. These results reveal both teams’ ability to dominate similar opponents, further amplifying the competitive nature of this matchup.

Final Analysis and Prediction

This game has all the makings of a classic. Spanish Fork’s offensive firepower and Ridgeline’s stout defense set the stage for a game that could go down to the wire. The perfect record of Ridgeline might suggest a slight upper hand, but with Spanish Fork’s balanced attack, they have every chance to pull off an upset.

The final outcome will hinge on key defensive stops, the ability to capitalize on turnovers, and control of the clock through the ground game. If Ridgeline’s defense can withstand Spanish Fork’s offensive surge, they may maintain their undefeated streak. However, if Spanish Fork’s offense finds rhythm early, we may witness an upset.

This showdown promises to be a thrilling battle, where each team’s strengths and strategic execution will determine who comes out on top in Utah’s high school football scene.