The Ryan High School varsity football team (Denton, TX) will play a neutral-site playoff game against Richland (North Richland Hills, TX) today at 2:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, specifically the 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Ryan vs Richland Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Ryan vs Richland
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Ryan vs Richland

This afternoon, the Richland (North Richland Hills, TX) and Ryan (Denton, TX) varsity football teams will face off in an intense neutral-site playoff game. Both teams have had remarkable seasons, with Richland boasting a 10-2 record and Ryan finishing with an impressive 11-1 record. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect as these two powerhouse teams clash on the gridiron.

Team Overview

Richland enters the game with a strong overall record of 10-2. The team has been dominant at home with a perfect 6-0 record, while their away performance stands at 3-2. Richland has scored 576 points this season while allowing 297, averaging 48 points per game. On the other hand, Ryan is coming off a stellar season with an 11-1 record, including an undefeated 6-0 at home. Their only loss came in an away game against Aledo, but they’ve shown their strength in both offense and defense, outscoring opponents 570 to 207 this season, averaging 47.5 points per game.

Head-to-Head Recap

In their most recent matchup on October 11, Ryan dominated Richland with a decisive 44-19 victory. The game saw Ryan take control early, with a 13-3 lead in the first quarter and a commanding 44 points by the end of the game. Richland’s offense struggled to keep pace, managing only three points in each of the final three quarters.

Team Stat Comparison

Looking at the team statistics, Richland has been effective with a balanced offense, averaging 147.8 rushing yards per game and 313.4 passing yards per game. They rely on QB Drew Kates, who has thrown for 288.8 yards per game, and wide receiver Xavier Johnson, who has 102.8 receiving yards per game. Richland’s defense is solid, with linebacker Roddrick Roberts leading the team with 10.4 tackles per game and contributing with 0.5 sacks per game.

Ryan, however, has a more potent rushing attack, averaging 212.6 yards per game. Their QB Quin Henigan has thrown for 175.8 yards per game, with standout wide receiver Braeden Mussett contributing 68.3 receiving yards per game. On defense, Ryan has been aggressive, recording 2.5 sacks per game, with Dillon Arkansas leading the team with 8.0 tackles per game. Their offense, though slightly less prolific than Richland’s in passing yards, has been highly effective in controlling the ball and moving it down the field.

Key Players to Watch

• Richland: Drew Kates (QB) and Xavier Johnson (WR) will need to be in top form for the offense to click, while Roddrick Roberts will play a crucial role in slowing down Ryan’s offense.
• Ryan: Nehemiah Warmate (RB) is a key player in the running game, while Quin Henigan’s passing ability will be essential for Ryan to stretch the field.

Common Opponents

Both teams have shared a number of opponents this season, with each posting a 6-1 record against common foes. Notable victories for Richland include a dominant 56-0 win over Denton, while Ryan also earned a 55-14 win against the same team. Richland and Ryan have also both triumphed over teams like Brewer, Azle, and Granbury, further solidifying their strength.

Playoff Implications

This game is crucial for both teams as they aim to continue their playoff journeys. Richland will look to avenge their earlier loss to Ryan and prove they can compete with the top teams in the state, while Ryan aims to maintain their momentum after a strong regular-season performance.

Both teams have the ability to put up big numbers, but it will ultimately come down to execution on both sides of the ball. Richland will need to find ways to stop Ryan’s rushing attack and create opportunities for their own offense, while Ryan will look to impose their will with a well-rounded attack and stout defense.

Final Thoughts

With their high-powered offenses and tough defenses, this neutral-site playoff game between Richland and Ryan is set to be an exciting, hard-fought battle. Fans can expect a thrilling matchup with plenty of explosive plays and dramatic moments as two of the state’s top teams vie for a chance to advance in the playoffs.

Kickoff is set for 2:00 p.m., and both teams are eager to show they have what it takes to continue their playoff runs. Stay tuned for what promises to be a classic showdown!