The McClave (CO) varsity football team is set to host Simla (CO) in a home playoff matchup today at 1 p.m. at McClave. This game is part of the “2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class A 8-Man” tournament.
Simla vs McClave High School Football Game Info:
What: Colorado High School Football
Who: Simla vs McClave
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs – Class A 8-Man
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Simla vs McClave
The McClave Cardinals (10-0) welcome the Simla Cubs (8-2) to their home turf for a pivotal Class A 8-Man playoff game today at 1 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 CHSAA State Football Playoffs and a chance for Simla to avenge their thrilling overtime loss to McClave earlier in the season.
Season Recap and Rankings
McClave enters the game undefeated, ranked 6th in Colorado and 4th in Class A. The Cardinals have been dominant both at home and on the road, boasting a perfect record and averaging 44.2 points per game while limiting opponents to just 14.4 points.
Simla, ranked 7th in Colorado and 5th in Class A, has had a strong season with an 8-2 record. The Cubs have showcased offensive versatility, averaging 38 points per game while excelling in both the rushing and passing games.
Head-to-Head History
In their September 14 showdown, McClave edged out Simla in an epic battle, prevailing 58-52 in triple overtime. The game was a display of resilience from both teams, with McClave overcoming early deficits and relying on clutch performances from quarterback Ethan Bronniman and running back Mason Barr.
Simla’s quarterback Caston Cox delivered a stellar performance in that matchup, throwing for 199 yards and demonstrating his dual-threat capability. However, McClave’s defensive front and strong ground game, led by Barr’s 109.5 rushing yards per game, ultimately proved decisive.
Key Players to Watch
- Simla Cubs:
- Caston Cox (QB): The senior leader averages 244.3 total yards per game, showcasing exceptional accuracy and mobility.
- T.J. Eurich (RB/WR): A versatile playmaker, Eurich averages 86.7 rushing yards and 68.7 receiving yards per game, while contributing 17.4 points per contest.
- Wyatt Stanko (LB): Anchors the defense with 9.7 tackles per game.
- McClave Cardinals:
- Ethan Bronniman (QB): A steady presence under center, Bronniman contributes 128.4 passing yards and 12.2 points per game.
- Mason Barr (RB/WR): A two-way star averaging 109.5 rushing yards and 37.6 receiving yards per game.
- Zack Owens (DL): Leads the Cardinals in tackles (12.8 per game) and pancake blocks (45), solidifying McClave’s edge on the line of scrimmage.
Team Comparisons
McClave has a slight statistical edge, averaging 370.7 total yards per game compared to Simla’s 356.6. The Cardinals’ defense has also been more consistent, with key contributions from players like Jr Mungaray (0.7 sacks per game). However, Simla’s balanced attack and ability to grind out wins make them a dangerous opponent.
Common Opponents
Both teams share wins over Sedgwick County and Elbert, with McClave posting more decisive victories in both matchups. These results highlight the Cardinals’ well-rounded performance on both sides of the ball.
Playoff Implications
For Simla, this game is a chance to rewrite the narrative after their heartbreaking loss to McClave. Meanwhile, McClave aims to maintain their unbeaten streak and continue their march toward the state championship.
With two evenly matched teams, today’s playoff clash promises to be another high-stakes thriller. Will Simla find redemption, or will McClave’s dominance continue? Fans can expect a hard-fought battle in this electrifying rematch.
