The Pascack Valley varsity football team (Hillsdale, NJ) will host River Dell (Oradell, NJ) today at 6 p.m. for the North 1 Group 3 Sectional Finals. This game is part of the 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Group 3 tournament.

River Dell vs Pascack Valley Football Game Info:

What: New Jersey High School Football Playoffs
Who: River Dell vs Pascack Valley
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m.
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Game preview: River Dell vs Pascack Valley

The high school football playoff matchup between River Dell and Pascack Valley is one to watch, as both teams have had impressive seasons and are set to face off once again after Pascack Valley’s dominant victory in the regular season.

Team Records and Rankings

• River Dell enters the playoffs with a 10-3 overall record, including a 3-2 league record. The team has shown resilience throughout the season, particularly in their strong performances at home, where they have a 5-1 record. Their offensive play has been notable, with an average of 30.3 points per game, fueled by strong rushing and passing efforts.
• Pascack Valley boasts a 9-1 overall record and an undefeated 5-0 league record. They’ve been a powerhouse, especially on their home turf, where they have a perfect 6-0 record. The team’s offense averages 32.2 points per game, and they have been particularly strong in the first half, outscoring opponents significantly in the opening quarters.

Head-to-Head

The two teams met earlier in the season on October 18th, with Pascack Valley securing a 35-7 victory over River Dell. Pascack Valley’s balanced offense overwhelmed River Dell, as they scored 14 points in each of the first two quarters, leaving River Dell with little chance to catch up. Despite a late touchdown in the fourth quarter by River Dell, Pascack Valley maintained control of the game throughout.

Team Stat Comparison

• Offense: River Dell’s offense averages 324 yards per game, with standout performances from #25 Kevin Regula, who leads the team in rushing yards (99.3 per game). Quarterback #10 Adam Shaw has also contributed with 114.7 passing yards per game. Meanwhile, Pascack Valley’s offense averages 335.4 total yards per game, with a well-rounded attack, including quarterback #10 Adam Shaw, who is instrumental in both the passing and rushing game.
• Defense: River Dell’s defense has been solid, with 76 tackles per game and an average of 2.7 sacks per game. Their key defender, #51 Dante Ricciardi, has been a consistent force with 10.2 tackles per game. Pascack Valley’s defense has been equally formidable, allowing only 120 points over the course of the season, and their defense will be crucial in limiting River Dell’s explosive plays.

Scoring Averages

• River Dell: While they’ve shown some inconsistencies, particularly in the second quarter, River Dell’s offense has proven to be dangerous in the first and fourth quarters, where they have scored an average of 3.5 points each.
• Pascack Valley: Pascack Valley has been more consistent in their scoring, averaging 9.0 points in the first quarter and 12.4 in the second. Their ability to dominate early in games has allowed them to build early leads, which will be crucial in this playoff matchup.

Key Players to Watch

• River Dell: The team’s success largely revolves around the running back #25 Kevin Regula, who has been their top offensive weapon with over 99 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Adam Shaw’s ability to manage the offense, particularly through the air, will also be critical in breaking down Pascack Valley’s defense.
• Pascack Valley: Pascack Valley’s balanced offensive attack will be led by Adam Shaw, whose dual-threat capability allows the team to strike both through the air and on the ground. Defensively, #51 Dante Ricciardi will play a key role in keeping River Dell’s rushing attack in check.

Common Opponents

Both teams faced several common opponents this season, with Pascack Valley going undefeated (5-0) against them, while River Dell posted a 4-2 record. Notably, both teams defeated Bergenfield, Paramus, and Teaneck, though Pascack Valley managed to win each game by a wider margin, including a 42-0 shutout of Paramus.

Playoff Implications

With both teams having strong records and playoff histories, this matchup will be a test of which team can capitalize on their strengths. Pascack Valley enters as the favorite due to their undefeated league record and the convincing victory earlier in the season. However, River Dell’s resilience and offensive firepower, particularly in the run game, could make for an exciting rematch.

Final Thoughts
As the River Dell and Pascack Valley teams gear up for their playoff showdown, fans can expect a competitive game with high stakes. Pascack Valley’s early dominance in their last meeting gives them the edge, but River Dell’s determination to redeem themselves and their capable offensive weapons mean the game is far from decided. Tune in for what promises to be a thrilling playoff clash!