The Cleveland (Clayton, NC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Rolesville (NC) on Friday, December 6, at 7:30 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: North Carolina High School Football
Who: Rolesville vs. Cleveland
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 NCHSAA Football Championships – 4A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Rolesville vs. Cleveland
The upcoming playoff showdown between Rolesville (12-1) and Cleveland (13-0) promises to be an exciting match. Both teams have had stellar seasons, with Cleveland remaining undefeated and Rolesville only losing once. Cleveland enters this game as the top seed in their bracket, while Rolesville has been dominant with a high-scoring offense. This game will feature two explosive offenses and solid defenses, making it a must-watch clash.
Season Recap: Rolesville
- Record: 12-1
- Conference Record: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 639 PF, 138 PA
- Scoring Average: 49.2 points per game
Rolesville has been an offensive powerhouse, averaging 49.2 points per game. Braden Atkinson has been the driving force for the offense, throwing for 237.9 yards per game. Meanwhile, Devon Thomas provides balance on the ground with 65.1 rushing yards per game. Gavin Waddell has been a key target in the passing game, with 63.0 receiving yards per game. The defense has been solid, allowing just 138 points on the season, led by Xavier Lewis with 7.2 tackles per game.
Season Recap: Cleveland
- Record: 13-0
- Conference Record: 7-0
- Points For/Against: 493 PF, 253 PA
- Scoring Average: 37.5 points per game
Cleveland has been undefeated this season, with an offense averaging 37.5 points per game. Jackson Byrd has been excellent as a dual-threat quarterback, passing for 269.4 yards per game and adding balance with his rushing ability. Deangelo Ruffin Jr. has been the top receiver, contributing 72.5 yards per game. Cleveland’s defense has been strong, allowing 253 points, with Sawyer Lowe leading the defense with 12.8 tackles per game. The Panthers also have a strong pass rush, with Daniel Lugo recording 1.0 sacks per game.
Key Matchups
- Offensive Strengths:
- Rolesville’s offense is known for its balanced attack. Braden Atkinson has been exceptional as a passer, and Devon Thomas provides a strong ground game. Cleveland’s defense will need to be disciplined and prevent big plays, especially from Atkinson’s aerial assault.
- Cleveland’s offense is versatile with Jackson Byrd leading the charge. His ability to both pass and run makes Cleveland’s attack unpredictable. They will likely lean on Deangelo Ruffin Jr. in the passing game, and their success will depend on controlling the tempo and using Byrd’s dual-threat abilities.
- Defensive Comparisons:
- Rolesville’s defense has been solid, allowing an average of just 138 points on the season. Xavier Lewis will be key in limiting Cleveland’s offensive success, and the defense will need to pressure Jackson Byrd into making mistakes.
- Cleveland’s defense has been effective, especially against the pass, and their pass rush has been strong. They will focus on disrupting Atkinson’s rhythm and forcing him to make quick decisions. Sawyer Lowe and Daniel Lugo will need to be aggressive to slow down Rolesville’s fast-paced offense.
Scoring Trends:
- Rolesville has been explosive, particularly in the first half, scoring 15.4 points in the first quarter and 22.9 points in the second quarter. They finish strong as well, averaging 3.0 points in the final quarter, showcasing their ability to close out games.
- Cleveland starts slower, with just 7.5 points in the first quarter, but has a balanced attack throughout the game. They score 6.5 points in the fourth quarter, which has been key in their close games. Cleveland’s ability to score late may be pivotal if the game remains close.
Prediction:
While Cleveland is undefeated and comes into the game with a perfect record, Rolesville‘s high-powered offense and solid defense make them a formidable opponent. Cleveland’s defense will need to contain the dynamic duo of Braden Atkinson and Devon Thomas to slow down the Rolesville attack. On the other hand, Jackson Byrd’s dual-threat ability will be a challenge for Rolesville’s defense.
