The Central High School varsity flag football team from Phenix City, AL, will face Spain Park High School from Hoover, AL, in a neutral-site playoff game today at 4 PM. This Championship matchup is part of the “2024 AHSAA Flag Football Playoffs (Alabama) – 6A-7A AHSAA” tournament.

Spain Park vs Central Flag Football Game Info:

What: Alabama High School Flag Football
Who: Spain Park vs Central
When: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Time: 4 PM
Watch here:Watch here

Game preview: Spain Park vs Central

As the 2024 AHSAA Flag Football Playoffs progress, the much-anticipated matchup between Central High and Spain Park High takes center stage. The two teams, showcasing contrasting styles and stellar performances, promise a thrilling contest as they vie for state supremacy.

Team Overview and Records

Central High, the top-ranked team in Alabama and second nationally, enters the playoffs undefeated with an impeccable 18-0 record. Dominating their region with a perfect 7-0 league performance, Central has proven to be a juggernaut both offensively and defensively, outscoring opponents 789-42 across the season.

Spain Park, ranked 4th in Alabama and 21st nationally, boasts a strong 16-4-1 record. While their performance in common-opponent matchups lags behind Central (1-3 vs. 4-0), Spain Park has shown resilience, highlighted by their thrilling 33-27 win over Hewitt-Trussville on November 27.

Key Stats and Comparisons

Offensive Firepower

• Central averages an astounding 43.8 points per game, propelled by a balanced attack of 45.2 rushing yards and 216.7 passing yards per game. Their scoring surges early, with a remarkable 16.9 points per game in the second quarter alone.
• Spain Park, while slightly behind with 23.3 points per game, leans heavily on their air attack, averaging 216.1 receiving yards per game. Quarterback Gerritt Griggs leads the charge with 169.3 passing yards per game, complemented by Natalyn Lumpkin’s 67.3 receiving yards per game.

Defensive Stalwarts

Central’s defense has been nothing short of dominant, allowing just 42 points all season. Their ability to stifle opponents is evident in their playoff performance, where they have yet to allow more than two touchdowns in any game.

Spain Park counters with a ball-hawking secondary that averages 2.8 interceptions per game, spearheaded by Colby Cook. While their defense has faced challenges against elite offenses, their knack for forcing turnovers could be pivotal against Central’s dynamic attack.

Notable Players

• Central: The team’s success hinges on a collaborative effort, with standout performances across the board. Their balanced attack and staunch defense make them formidable at every position.
• Spain Park: Quarterback Gerritt Griggs is the heartbeat of the team, excelling in both passing and rushing. Wide receiver Natalyn Lumpkin, with her 13.2 points per game, is another game-changer to watch.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Though these two powerhouses haven’t faced each other this season, their performances against common opponents tell a compelling story. Central has emerged unscathed in all four matchups, while Spain Park has struggled, winning just one of four. Central’s decisive victories against teams like Prattville (49-0) and Auburn (33-12) highlight their dominance.

Playoff Momentum

Central’s flawless 4-0 playoff record underscores their status as the favorite. However, Spain Park’s recent form, including their victory over Hewitt-Trussville, shows they are peaking at the right time and ready to challenge the favorites.

Prediction

Central’s consistent excellence and overwhelming statistics make them the team to beat, but Spain Park’s knack for big-game moments could set the stage for an upset. Expect a hard-fought game as these two teams leave it all on the field in their quest for the championship.

Fans are in for an electrifying contest that epitomizes the intensity and talent of AHSAA Flag Football.