The Hanover Park varsity football team from East Hanover, NJ, will host Shabazz from Newark, NJ, in a home playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: New Jersey High School Football
Who: Shabazz vs Hanover Park
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Group 2
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Shabazz vs. Hanover Park
The Shabazz and Hanover Park football teams are set to meet in a highly anticipated playoff clash on Friday, November 22. With both teams coming off strong regular seasons, this matchup is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. Shabazz enters the game with a 9-2 record, while Hanover Park is riding high at 10-1. Hanover Park has been undefeated in league play, while Shabazz boasts an impressive 4-0 league record.
Season Recap: Shabazz (NJ)
- Record: 9-2
- Points For/Against: 367 PF, 155 PA
- Scoring Average: 33.4 points per game
Shabazz has been an offensive force this season, averaging 33.4 points per game, although they have been inconsistent at times. Their biggest strength has been the leadership of Joey Borrello, who is heavily involved both as a rusher and passer. Borrello’s ability to control the game offensively will be key if Shabazz hopes to keep up with Hanover Park’s high-powered offense. The defense, led by Joey Filippone, has been solid, allowing just 155 points on the season.
Key Players:
- Joey Borrello (QB/RB): Dual-threat quarterback with 41.2 rushing yards and 141.6 passing yards per game.
- Jack Kovacs (WR): Top receiver with 36.7 yards per game.
- Joey Filippone (LB): Defensive leader with 8.5 tackles per game.
Season Recap: Hanover Park (NJ)
- Record: 10-1
- Points For/Against: 344 PF, 99 PA
- Scoring Average: 31.3 points per game
Hanover Park has been impressive on both sides of the ball, outscoring opponents by a wide margin. Their offense, led by a balanced attack, is led by the strong play of Joey Borrello, who’s also a dual threat for Hanover Park. The defense has been solid, giving up just 99 points all season, and they will look to shut down Shabazz’s explosive offense. The team’s dominance in the league (3-0) and excellent 5-0 home record suggests they are a tough team to beat.
Key Players:
- Joey Borrello (QB/RB): A true dual-threat with 41.2 rushing yards and 141.6 passing yards per game.
- Rocco Zirpoli (OL): Key to the offensive line, contributing 4 pancake blocks on the season.
- Azaad Parks (LB): Defensive contributor with 0.5 sacks per game.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Shabazz (NJ) | Hanover Park (NJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 127.1 | 154.4 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 154.4 | 141.6 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 154.4 | 36.5 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 281.5 | 327.5 |
| Tackles Per Game | 59.2 | 50.0 |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.9 | 1.5 |
| Points Per Game | 30.7 | 31.3 |
Record Breakdown
| Category | Shabazz (NJ) | Hanover Park (NJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 9-2 | 10-1 |
| League Record | 4-0 | 3-0 |
| Non-League Record | 4-1 | 0-0 |
| Head to Head | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Home Record | 5-1 | 5-0 |
| Away Record | 5-0 | 5-1 |
| Neutral Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Playoff Record | 3-0 | 3-0 |
Common Opponents
| Opponent | Shabazz (NJ) | Hanover Park (NJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Weequahic | – | W (27-6) |
Key Players to Watch
- Shabazz (NJ):
- Joey Borrello (QB/RB): An offensive leader who can create plays with both his legs and arm.
- Jack Kovacs (WR): A reliable target in the passing game.
- Joey Filippone (LB): Key to Shabazz’s defense and stopping Hanover Park’s offense.
- Hanover Park (NJ):
- Joey Borrello (QB/RB): A versatile player who can impact the game on both sides.
- Rocco Zirpoli (OL): His play on the offensive line will be critical in creating running lanes for Joey Borrello.
- Azaad Parks (LB): A defensive player to watch as he looks to make plays in the backfield.
Prediction:
Both teams have had strong seasons, but Hanover Park has the edge in both offense and defense, with a more well-rounded attack and superior overall stats. Shabazz, while explosive, may struggle to keep pace with Hanover Park’s offensive efficiency and defensive prowess.
