The Riverside Warriors (5-4) varsity football team from Greer, SC, will host the Greenville Red Raiders (2-8) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Riverside vs Greenville
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 2
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Game preview: Riverside vs Greenville

As the 2024 high school football season approaches its climax, the Greenville and Riverside varsity football teams are gearing up for a critical playoff showdown. This Friday, November 15th, at 7:30 p.m., Greenville (2-8) will travel to Riverside (5-4) for a playoff battle that promises to be both intense and revealing.

Head-to-Head: Riverside Comes Out on Top

The two teams have already met once this season, with Riverside securing a 42-29 victory on August 30, 2024. The Riverside offense was dominant in the first half, putting up 21 points across the first two quarters. Greenville showed resilience, bouncing back in the second half, scoring 16 points in the second and 13 in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the early deficit. Riverside’s balanced offensive attack, which accumulated 256 total yards, outpaced Greenville’s offense in the win.

Greenville’s Struggles and Strengths

Greenville enters the playoff matchup with a 2-8 overall record, having struggled throughout the season. Despite their disappointing record, they have shown glimpses of promise. With a per-game average of 25.2 points, the Greenville offense, led by quarterback Banks Bouton, has been capable of moving the ball. Bouton has tallied 205.3 passing yards per game and over 237 total yards per game. Meanwhile, Kylar Zimmerman leads the rushing attack with 62 yards per game. On the defensive side, Bradley Lucas has been a standout with 10.3 tackles per game.

However, Greenville’s defense has been a point of concern. They allow an average of 39.3 points per game and struggle to make key stops. Their 0.6 sacks per game and 76.9 tackles per game reflect challenges in containing the opposition.

Riverside’s Playoff Push

Riverside enters the contest with a solid 5-4 record and aims to capitalize on their successful regular season. Their offense has been prolific, averaging 28.4 points per game. Quarterback Gideon Merhib has been outstanding, with a staggering 253.7 passing yards per game. The Rams also have playmakers like Jaiden “Speedy” Taylor, who leads the team with 164 receiving yards per game, and running back Keyon Knowles, who averages 45 yards on the ground.

Defensively, Riverside has been steady, allowing just 246 total yards per game, including 141.1 passing yards. They are led by linebacker Zacharias “Zman” Martin, who averages 12.7 tackles per game and defensive back Sha’rod Williams, who has been effective in pressuring the quarterback with 1.0 sacks per game.

Key Matchups

• Greenville’s Passing Game vs. Riverside’s Secondary: Greenville’s strength has been through the air, with Banks Bouton’s 205.3 passing yards per game. Riverside will need to clamp down on his options and prevent big plays.
• Riverside’s Balanced Offense vs. Greenville’s Defense: Riverside has shown a balanced offensive attack, with both a strong passing game and an efficient rushing attack. Greenville’s defense must find ways to stop both facets, especially Riverside’s explosive quarterback Merhib and playmaker Taylor.
• Special Teams Play: In close games like these, special teams can make all the difference. Both teams will look to capitalize on any return opportunities or field position shifts.

Looking Ahead: A Decisive Playoff Contest

This game will mark the beginning of the playoffs for both teams. For Greenville, the road to the championship is a tough one, but they are determined to fight through adversity and defy the odds. Riverside, on the other hand, has more momentum entering the postseason and will look to prove they’re one of the region’s top teams. The winner of this game will take a significant step forward in their quest for playoff success.

Greenville vs. Riverside, a game full of intrigue and high stakes, promises to be an exciting contest. The Rams are favorites going into this matchup, but with the season on the line, Greenville will be ready to leave everything on the field. Tune in this Friday at 7:30 p.m. to see how the teams battle in what is sure to be an unforgettable playoff game.