The Manatee (Bradenton, FL) varsity football team will face Riverdale (Fort Myers, FL) in a neutral-site playoff game today at 7:30 p.m. at Manatee. This game is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 5A FHSAA Football tournament.

Riverdale vs Manatee High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: Riverdale vs Manatee
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 5A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Riverdale vs Manatee

As the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships heat up, two formidable teams are set to face off in an exciting neutral-site playoff game. Riverdale (Fort Myers, FL), with a strong 10-2 record, will take on Manatee (Bradenton, FL) in a matchup that promises to deliver intense action and high stakes. This game, taking place today at 7:30 p.m. at Manatee High School, is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the 5A classification.

Team Overview and Records

Riverdale comes into the game with a solid 10-2 record, having dominated in both district and non-district games. Their district performance has been strong, finishing 2-1 in league play. The team boasts a potent offensive lineup, averaging 31.8 points per game, fueled by a powerful rushing attack that averages over 283 yards per game. Riverdale has proven its ability to perform under pressure, with an impressive 5-1 record in away games this season.

On the other hand, Manatee enters the game undefeated at 9-1, with an impeccable 7-0 record at home. Their only loss came in a non-district matchup, but they have been dominant in district play, finishing 2-0. Manatee’s offense is equally formidable, scoring an average of 41 points per game, and they have been especially potent in the second quarter, scoring over 20 points per game during that period. Their defense has also been impressive, allowing just 134 points this season.

Key Players to Watch

For Riverdale, the standout player is running back Cole Hayes, who has been exceptional this season, rushing for an average of 160.4 yards per game and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive success. Quarterback Theodis Harris Jr. has also been a key figure in the passing game, throwing for 52.6 yards per game.

Manatee counters with its own offensive dynamo, quarterback Andrew Heidel, who has been lighting up the scoreboard with 220.6 yards per game and leading the team with 13.3 points per game. The team also boasts a solid rushing attack with KeiShawn Smith, who has rushed for an average of 89.6 yards per game.

Stat Comparison

• Rushing: Riverdale excels in the running game, averaging 283.1 yards per game compared to Manatee’s 110.3 yards per game. However, Manatee’s passing attack, led by Heidel, has been its primary offensive weapon.
• Passing: Manatee’s passing game stands out with 208.0 yards per game, significantly outpacing Riverdale’s 56.7 yards per game. Heidel’s connection with his receiving corps has been a key element of Manatee’s success.
• Total Yards: Manatee averages 318.3 total yards per game, while Riverdale records 339.8 yards, but the disparity in passing yards gives Manatee an edge in offensive versatility.
• Defense: Riverdale’s defense has been solid, averaging 57.7 tackles per game, but Manatee’s defense has been particularly stingy, allowing just 134 points throughout the season.

Game Outlook

This game is a battle of contrasting styles: Riverdale’s ground-and-pound offense versus Manatee’s balanced attack, led by its explosive passing game. Both teams are entering this playoff matchup with a lot to prove, and with the stakes high, fans can expect an electrifying contest.

Riverdale’s ability to control the clock with its running game will be crucial in this matchup, while Manatee will look to exploit its passing advantage and put pressure on Riverdale’s defense. With both teams having strong playoff pedigrees and talented rosters, this game is poised to be a thrilling encounter.

As the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships continue, Riverdale and Manatee will battle for a spot in the next round, with both teams hungry for success and eager to make their mark on the state tournament. Will Riverdale’s power game prevail, or will Manatee’s high-flying offense lead them to victory? Only time will tell in this exciting 5A playoff showdown.