The Seneca Bobcats (8-2, SC) varsity football team will host the Richland Northeast Cavaliers (7-3, Columbia, SC) for a home playoff game on Friday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAA Football tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Seneca vs Richland Northeast
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAA Football
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Game preview: Seneca vs Richland Northeast

As the 2024-2025 high school football season progresses, two teams with impressive records—Richland Northeast and Seneca—are drawing attention as they head into their respective playoffs. With each team showcasing strong performances both offensively and defensively, a comparison of their rankings, records, and key statistics reveals an intriguing clash of styles and strengths.

Team Overview

• Richland Northeast: The team has posted a solid 7-3 overall record with a 3-3 performance in region play. Their offensive strategy has been built around versatile quarterback Will Wilson, who leads the team in rushing (103 yards per game), passing (230.8 yards per game), and total yards (333.8 yards per game). Richland Northeast averages a respectable 27.9 points per game, with notable strength in their fourth-quarter scoring, where they tally an average of 16.5 points.
• Seneca: Coming in at 8-2 overall with a 4-2 regional record, Seneca has shown both offensive firepower and defensive stability. Averaging 36.5 points per game, they have dominated in early quarters, particularly in the first and second with an average of 12.0 and 13.7 points, respectively. The team has displayed balanced offense, although their rushing yards are not tracked in the stats provided. The defense has been outstanding, allowing just 168 points for the season.

Team Scoring Averages

• Richland Northeast: The team’s scoring averages fluctuate from quarter to quarter, with their biggest output in the fourth (16.5 points). They’ve demonstrated resilience, scoring 7.0 points in overtime when needed, and putting up 6.0 points in the second quarter despite challenges.
• Seneca: Seneca’s scoring averages paint a dominant picture, particularly in the first half. The team puts up 12.0 points in the first quarter and follows that with 13.7 in the second, before cooling off a bit with just 2.3 points in the fourth. This consistency in the first half has been key to their strong season.

Offensive and Defensive Stats

• Richland Northeast: The team’s offense has been led by Will Wilson’s ability to pass and rush effectively, with 194.7 yards per game receiving and 374.3 total yards per game. This has translated into a win percentage of .700 overall. Richland Northeast’s defensive unit has allowed 270 points on the season, reflecting a more balanced but less dominant defense compared to Seneca.
• Seneca: The team has excelled in total yards with an impressive 374.3 yards per game. Their passing game, which has averaged 207.3 yards per game, has been potent, while their rushing yards remain unlisted. Their defense has allowed only 168 points across the season, giving them an average of just 16.8 points per game allowed, a testament to their defensive prowess.

Record Breakdown

• Richland Northeast: The team has excelled at home, with a 4-1 record. On the road, they’ve had a slightly tougher time, posting a 3-2 record. Their overall 7-3 mark shows a well-rounded team with strong performances in non-league games, boasting a 4-0 record there.
• Seneca: Similarly, Seneca has performed strongly at home (4-1) and on the road (4-1), making them one of the toughest teams in the state. Their overall record of 8-2, with the majority of losses coming from within their region, highlights their consistent dominance outside of their region.

Key Players to Watch

• Richland Northeast: Quarterback Will Wilson is undoubtedly the star of the team. His leadership on offense is undeniable as he contributes in multiple areas. His rushing ability, combined with his passing skills, makes him a dual-threat that opposing defenses struggle to contain.
• Seneca: While specific player stats are not available for Seneca’s rushing game, their offensive line and passing game have played a pivotal role in their success. Their balanced scoring approach, especially early in the game, has given them the momentum needed to win games decisively.

Head-to-Head and Playoff Outlook

Neither team has played head-to-head or shared common opponents during the season, so the matchup between them remains untested. However, both teams are poised for deep playoff runs. Richland Northeast has shown resilience, and Seneca has displayed dominance in all phases of the game.

With similar strengths in offense and defense, the game between these two could be an exciting and high-scoring affair. Both teams have the talent to go far in the playoffs, and the battle for regional supremacy will certainly be one to watch.