The Ryan High School varsity football team from Denton, TX will face Richland High School from North Richland Hills, TX in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 2:00 PM. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Ryan vs Richland Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Ryan vs Richland
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
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Game preview: Ryan vs Richland

As the high school football playoffs heat up, a highly anticipated matchup is set for Friday, November 29, when the Richland Rebels (10-2) take on the Ryan Raiders (11-1) in a neutral-site game. With both teams boasting impressive regular-season records, this game promises to be a thrilling contest.

Season Overview: Richland and Ryan

Richland (10-2) The Rebels have been strong all season, finishing with a 10-2 record and an impressive 6-0 mark at home. Their offense has been high-powered, averaging 48.0 points per game, thanks to a balanced attack. They have shown resilience in key games, including impressive victories over teams like Birdville, Granbury, and Brewer. Their main offensive weapon, running back Jayshon Gibson, has been dominant, averaging 72.2 rushing yards per game. Drew Kates has been a consistent presence at quarterback, throwing for over 288 yards per game.

Defensively, Richland has been solid, recording an average of 73.1 tackles per game, led by linebacker Roddrick Roberts, who also has 0.5 sacks per game. Despite these strong stats, the Rebels struggled against top-tier teams, suffering losses to Aledo in a narrow 49-42 defeat.

Ryan (11-1) The Raiders, who finished with an 11-1 record, have been nearly flawless this season. With a potent offense that scores 47.5 points per game, Ryan has been a dominant force on both sides of the ball. Running back Nehemiah Warmate leads the rushing attack with 86.5 yards per game, and quarterback Quin Henigan has been exceptional, throwing for 175.8 yards per game. The Ryan offense has produced an impressive 409.0 total yards per game.

Defensively, Ryan has been formidable, with standout performances from Dillon Arkansas (8.0 tackles per game) and Errol West (0.7 sacks per game). Their defense will look to challenge Richland’s dynamic offense.

Recent Head-to-Head

The two teams met earlier this season on October 11, when Ryan triumphed with a commanding 44-19 victory. The Raiders put up a balanced offensive display, with a strong first-half performance that saw them take a commanding 27-10 lead. Richland struggled to keep pace, managing just 19 points across the four quarters. Ryan’s defense also played a crucial role in limiting the Rebels’ offensive opportunities.

Key Team Comparisons

• Scoring: Richland has averaged 48.0 points per game, slightly ahead of Ryan’s 47.5. Both teams boast explosive offenses, but Ryan has been more consistent, especially in the second quarter, where they score an average of 23.1 points compared to Richland’s 16.6.
• Rushing: Ryan excels in the running game, averaging 212.6 rushing yards per game, which is significantly higher than Richland’s 147.8. The Raiders’ ability to dominate on the ground could be a decisive factor.
• Passing: Richland holds an edge in passing yards per game with 313.4, compared to Ryan’s 196.4. Quarterback Drew Kates’ ability to spread the ball to his playmakers could challenge Ryan’s secondary.
• Defense: Ryan has been more effective in pressuring the quarterback, averaging 2.5 sacks per game, compared to Richland’s 0.6. This defensive advantage could be pivotal in containing Kates and forcing turnovers.

Team Leaders

• Richland:
  • Jayshon Gibson, RB (72.2 rushing yards per game)
  • Drew Kates, QB (288.8 passing yards per game)
  • Roddrick Roberts, LB (10.4 tackles per game)
• Ryan:
  • Nehemiah Warmate, RB (86.5 rushing yards per game)
  • Quin Henigan, QB (175.8 passing yards per game)
  • Dillon Arkansas, LB (8.0 tackles per game)

Common Opponents

Both teams share a similar record against common opponents, with each posting a 6-1 record. Notably, both teams dominated against Azle, Brewer, and Birdville, although Richland fell short against Aledo, while Ryan had a similar loss to Aledo earlier in the season.

The Road Ahead

This playoff game will be pivotal for both teams. Richland will need to execute on both sides of the ball, capitalizing on their aerial attack and solid defense to contain Ryan’s potent offense. Ryan, on the other hand, will rely on its rushing attack and defensive pressure to control the game and move closer to a potential championship appearance.

As the game approaches, fans can expect an intense battle between two high-powered teams. Will Richland’s explosive offense rise to the challenge, or will Ryan’s balanced attack and strong defense prevail? Tune in Friday, November 29, at 2 p.m. to find out.