The Devine (TX) varsity football team will face Salado (TX) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 PM at Wimberley. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A Division 2 tournament.

Salado vs Devine Football Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Salado vs Devine
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
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Game preview: Salado vs Devine

As the high school football season heats up, the upcoming matchup between the Salado Eagles and the Devine Warhorses promises to be an exciting battle on the gridiron. Both teams have shown impressive records this season, with strong individual performances and solid team statistics. Let’s break down the key factors that could determine the outcome of this game.

Team Overview and Records

Salado Eagles (6-4 overall, 4-2 district)
The Salado Eagles have had a solid season so far, finishing with an overall record of 6-4. They’ve shown resilience, especially in district play, where they hold a 4-2 record. Their offense has been productive, scoring an average of 34.7 points per game, while their defense has allowed 29.8 points per game. Salado’s strength lies in their balanced attack, combining a strong rushing game with efficient passing.

Key players for Salado include Lincoln Hossfeld, who has been a dual-threat, averaging 76.5 rushing yards and 209.2 passing yards per game. He has been the centerpiece of their offensive scheme, with Brendan Wilson contributing 68.7 receiving yards per game.

Devine Warhorses (8-2 overall, 3-1 district)
Devine comes into this game with a strong 8-2 record, including a 3-1 district performance. With an average of 32.8 points per game and a stingy defense that only allows 16.4 points per game, Devine has been dominant on both sides of the ball. Their rushing game is particularly potent, averaging 274.9 yards per game, and they are known for controlling the tempo of the game with their ground attack.

The Warhorses’ star player is Brayden Reyes, who has been exceptional with 122.4 rushing yards per game. Additionally, Jacob Sollock and Tyler Hinnant provide solid contributions in the receiving game, while the defense is anchored by key players like Tyler Hinnant.

Statistical Comparison

When we compare the two teams’ statistical averages, the difference in their approach becomes clear:

• Rushing Game: Devine excels in the running game with 274.9 yards per game, significantly outpacing Salado’s 178.4 yards per game. The Warhorses’ rushing attack is a key factor in their success.
• Passing Game: Salado has been more balanced in the air, averaging 222.9 passing yards per game, compared to Devine’s 78.6 yards. However, Devine’s ability to control the clock with their running game has limited the need for a high-powered passing attack.
• Total Yards: Salado averages 401.3 total yards per game, while Devine manages 353.5 yards. Despite this, Devine’s efficiency in scoring and its strong defensive play give them the edge in overall performance.
• Points Per Game: Salado averages 34.7 points per game, slightly higher than Devine’s 32.8 points, suggesting that both teams are capable of explosive offenses, but Salado’s high-scoring ability could be crucial in a close contest.

Key Players to Watch

• Salado:
  • Lincoln Hossfeld: A versatile player, Hossfeld will need to be at his best to keep Salado in the game. His ability to both pass and run the ball makes him a threat on every play.
  • Damonte Foster: A defensive leader with 12.4 tackles per game, Foster will need to play a pivotal role in slowing down Devine’s rushing attack.
• Devine:
  • Brayden Reyes: The standout running back for the Warhorses, Reyes will be the focal point of Devine’s offense. His ability to break big runs will be crucial to Devine’s success.
  • Tyler Hinnant: Not only a key receiver, but also a vital part of Devine’s defense. Hinnant’s all-around playmaking ability makes him a player to watch on both sides of the ball.

Matchup Breakdown

• Offensive Strategy: Salado’s balanced offense, led by Hossfeld’s dual-threat ability, will face off against Devine’s powerful running game. Salado will need to mix up their play calling and maintain possession to counter Devine’s time-consuming drives.
• Defensive Strategy: Salado’s defense has given up 291 points this season, which could be a concern against Devine’s potent running attack. Salado will need to limit big plays and force Devine into passing situations, where they are less comfortable.
• Special Teams: Both teams will need to capitalize on special teams plays to gain an edge, whether it’s field position or scoring opportunities.

Conclusion

With both teams showing strong records and exciting individual performances, this game is sure to be a thrilling encounter. While Salado has the edge in passing and total yards, Devine’s ground game and stingy defense give them a slight advantage. Ultimately, the team that can impose their will on both sides of the ball will emerge victorious. For Salado, limiting the impact of Reyes and keeping the game close will be key, while Devine will look to control the clock and wear down Salado’s defense.

This matchup promises to be a hard-fought contest between two teams that are eager to prove their championship potential. Fans can expect a game full of exciting plays, big hits, and intense moments.