The Ryan (Denton, TX) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Monterey (Lubbock, TX) on Saturday, November 23, at 3:00 PM at Abilene Christian University. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, specifically the 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Ryan vs Monterey Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Ryan vs Monterey
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 3:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
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Game preview: Ryan vs Monterey

As the season heads into the final stretch, a head-to-head matchup between two powerhouse Texas teams, Monterey and Ryan, promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams have posted impressive records, with Ryan boasting a remarkable 10-1 overall record, while Monterey has earned a solid 7-4 standing. Let’s break down the key statistics and player performances that could decide the outcome.

Team Performance and Scoring Averages

Monterey has demonstrated resilience with an overall win percentage of .636. The team has been particularly strong at home, posting a 4-1 record. However, their away form has been more mixed, with a 3-3 record. Monterey’s offense has been effective, averaging 44.5 points per game, including an impressive 14.6-point surge in the fourth quarter. This late-game performance shows that Monterey can turn the tide when it matters most.

On the other hand, Ryan has been dominant throughout the season, with a .909 win percentage and a 7-1 district record. Their offense has been exceptional, averaging 49.2 points per game, including a whopping 23.1 points per second quarter. Despite a slight dip in the final quarter, Ryan’s consistency, especially early in the game, has set them apart.

Offensive Breakdown

In terms of offensive stats, Monterey excels in the rushing game, with an average of 208.3 yards per game. Their ability to control the ground game has been a key component of their attack. Nehemiah Warmate leads the charge with 80.1 rushing yards per game, ranking him as one of the top rushers on the team. Additionally, Quin Henigan has been efficient in the passing game, averaging 177.5 passing yards per game, which is crucial to Monterey’s diverse offensive strategy.

Ryan, however, presents a more balanced and potent offensive unit, totaling 407.1 yards per game. They have been highly effective both on the ground and through the air. Nehemiah Warmate of Monterey might need to outpace Ryan’s ground game to make a significant impact. Meanwhile, Quin Henigan leads Monterey in total yards per game, but Ryan’s passing attack could prove difficult to stop with their own efficient air game and balanced rushing attack.

Defensive Impact

Defensively, both teams have their strengths. Monterey has been stout in the tackle department, averaging 72.1 tackles per game. Their defense has been led by standout player Dillon Arkansas, with 7.6 tackles per game, making him a key contributor on that side of the ball. Additionally, the defense has shown a knack for sacking opposing quarterbacks, with Errol West leading the way with 0.6 sacks per game.

Ryan’s defense has been no slouch either, and they have kept opponents to an average of just 191 points for the season. Although their tackles per game (roughly 2.7 per player) aren’t as high as Monterey’s, their defensive front has been tough, and they’ve posted solid sack numbers across the season.

Team Leaders and Key Matchups

Key individual performances will be vital in this matchup. For Monterey, Zo Hill stands out in the receiving game, averaging 66.8 receiving yards per game, while Nehemiah Warmate has accounted for 8.2 points per game on offense. These players will be essential in giving Monterey the offensive spark they need to keep up with Ryan.

For Ryan, Trae Williams, with his pancake blocks, will be a crucial factor in maintaining protection for the quarterback and opening up holes for their running backs. Additionally, Ryan’s ability to spread the ball around with their versatile attack could prove overwhelming for Monterey’s defense.

Final Thoughts

Both teams come into this matchup with strong overall records and high expectations. Monterey’s strength lies in their late-game offense and ground game, while Ryan brings balance, depth, and consistent high scoring throughout the game. With a stellar record, Ryan is poised to challenge Monterey, but the game’s outcome could hinge on how well Monterey can adjust to Ryan’s fast-paced, potent offense.

Fans can expect a showdown of contrasting styles—Monterey’s gritty, ground-and-pound approach versus Ryan’s all-around offensive dominance. It should be a game where every quarter counts, and one mistake could tip the scales.