The Shallowater Mustangs (8-2) will face the Brownfield Cubs (0-10) in a neutral-site playoff game on Thursday, November 14, at 7:00 PM. The game will take place at Lubbock Cooper High School and is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, Conference 3A Division 1 tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Shallowater vs Brownfield
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 3A D1
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Game preview: Shallowater vs Brownfield

As the 2024-2025 football season winds down, the contrasting fortunes of Brownfield and Shallowater serve as a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of Texas high school football.

Team Overview

Brownfield (0-10) has faced a challenging season, with the team struggling to find their rhythm. Despite the efforts, they are still searching for their first victory of the season. The Brownfield Cubs have been unable to secure wins at home or on the road, ending with a winless 0-10 record. They have only managed to score a total of 79 points this season, a stark contrast to their opponents, who are dominating both offensively and defensively.

On the other hand, Shallowater (8-2) is enjoying a much more successful campaign. With a strong overall record of 8-2, including a perfect 3-0 district record, Shallowater has excelled both at home and on the road. Their total points scored this season, 358, showcases their offensive prowess, with an average of 35.8 points per game. Their well-rounded attack has propelled them to the top of their district, leaving them poised for a deep playoff run.

Scoring Breakdown

The scoring statistics reveal the stark contrast between the two teams. Brownfield struggles to score consistently, averaging only 7.9 points per game. Their scoring is sporadic, with only a couple of standout quarters (Q1 and Q4), but their overall offensive efficiency has been a major concern this season.

In contrast, Shallowater has demonstrated an explosive offensive unit, with their scoring distribution far more consistent throughout the game. Their ability to put up points, especially in the second and third quarters (7.7 and 12.0 points respectively), has been one of the major reasons behind their success. With an average of 35.8 points per game, they have proven to be one of the most potent offenses in the state.

Offensive Comparisons

When looking at the team statistics, the difference in offensive production is clear. Brownfield’s offensive numbers are modest, averaging 320.6 total yards per game, with their most effective player, Cooper Martin, contributing a significant portion of their total offense. Martin leads the team in rushing yards (73.3 yards per game), passing yards (129.7 yards per game), and total yards (209.3 yards per game). However, the Cubs have been unable to translate these individual performances into wins.

Shallowater’s offensive stats are impressive, as they average 183.7 rushing yards per game, 136.9 passing yards, and a total of 320.6 yards per game. The key players for the Mustangs have been a balanced mix of rushing and passing, with their offensive line paving the way for the success of their run game. Their scoring leader, Brody Rowin, has been a key contributor, averaging 57.2 receiving yards per game and 6.0 points per game, demonstrating his crucial role in Shallowater’s high-scoring offense.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

Despite the difference in records, both teams have faced common opponents, which will be crucial in the future. Shallowater’s dominance in their district, coupled with their 5-2 non-league record, suggests that they have the upper hand in matchups against similar caliber teams. Meanwhile, Brownfield has struggled in non-league play (0-7), a fact that has made it difficult for them to build any momentum.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, Shallowater will continue to be a serious contender in their district and beyond, looking to capitalize on their strong performance. With a deep roster and efficient offensive and defensive units, they could go far in the postseason.

For Brownfield, the focus will need to shift to developing their younger players and building on the experience gained this season. Though their record is far from ideal, every game provides valuable lessons that will serve them well in the future.

In conclusion, the upcoming matchup between these two teams highlights the vast contrast in their respective seasons. Shallowater has flourished, while Brownfield has struggled, but both teams have shown moments of promise that could lead to improvement in the future. Whether it’s Shallowater continuing their success or Brownfield seeking a breakthrough, both teams still have plenty to play for as the season draws to a close.