The Shabazz (Newark, NJ) varsity football team is set to face Rumson-Fair Haven (Rumson, NJ) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 4:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: New Jersey High School Football
Who: Rumson-Fair Haven vs Shabazz
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 4:00 p.m ET
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Group 2
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Rumson-Fair Haven vs. Shabazz
The high school football season heats up as the undefeated Rumson-Fair Haven Bulldogs (12-0) square off against the resilient Shabazz Bulldogs (10-2) in what promises to be a thrilling clash. Both teams have demonstrated dominance throughout the season, but their contrasting styles make this matchup particularly intriguing.
Season Recap
Rumson-Fair Haven Bulldogs
- Record: 12-0
- Division Rank: 11 (NJ, Division 1)
- Points Scored: 504
- Points Allowed: 150
- Key Player: Quarterback Owen O’Toole, who averages an impressive 219.9 passing yards per game and leads the team with 234.9 total yards per game.
- Strengths:
- Balanced offense, with both a strong passing game (206.1 passing yards per game) and a solid rushing attack (148.6 rushing yards per game).
- Consistent scoring throughout all four quarters, averaging 42.0 points per game.
- Dominant at home with a perfect 7-0 record.
Shabazz Bulldogs
- Record: 10-2
- Division Rank: 47 (NJ, Division 1)
- Points Scored: 375
- Points Allowed: 162
- Strengths:
- Excellent road performance, boasting a perfect 7-0 away record.
- Resilient defense that has stepped up in crucial games.
- Balanced team play that has helped them navigate a tough schedule.
Key Stats and Comparisons
| Category | Rumson-Fair Haven | Shabazz |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 42.0 | 31.3 |
| Total Yards/Game | 354.7 | – |
| Passing Yards/Game | 206.1 | – |
| Rushing Yards/Game | 148.6 | – |
| Points Allowed/Game | 12.5 | 13.5 |
Rumson-Fair Haven’s high-powered offense will look to exploit a Shabazz defense that has held opponents to 13.5 points per game. Meanwhile, Shabazz will rely on its road warrior mentality and opportunistic play to counter Rumson’s firepower.
Players to Watch
Rumson-Fair Haven Bulldogs:
- Owen O’Toole (QB): The leader of the offense, O’Toole’s ability to air it out and manage the game will be crucial for Rumson-Fair Haven’s success.
- Jordan Angstreich (WR): With 93.6 receiving yards per game, Angstreich is O’Toole’s favorite target and a big-play threat.
- Kellen Murray (RB): A reliable rusher who averages 121.1 yards per game and can wear down opposing defenses.
Shabazz Bulldogs:
- While Shabazz’s individual stats are unavailable, their collective success is a testament to team play and strong fundamentals. Expect a team-oriented effort with a focus on defense and special teams to keep them in the game.
What to Expect
Rumson-Fair Haven comes into this game with a dynamic offense and an unblemished record, making them the clear favorite. However, Shabazz has proven to be a tough road team and has the defensive grit to make things difficult for Rumson’s playmakers. The key for Shabazz will be limiting Rumson’s early scoring and finding ways to capitalize on turnovers and field position.
For Rumson, establishing their passing game early and keeping Shabazz’s offense off the field will be essential. If they can execute their game plan, their depth and talent should carry them to victory.
Prediction
Both teams bring unique strengths to this matchup, but Rumson-Fair Haven’s balanced offense and consistency across the season give them the edge. Shabazz’s tenacity, especially on the road, ensures this will be a competitive contest, but Rumson’s offensive firepower and home dominance are likely to be the deciding factors.
