The Wheeling Park varsity football team from Wheeling, WV, will host Spring Mills from Martinsburg, WV, in a home playoff game on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 7 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: West Virginia High School Football
Who: Spring Mills vs Wheeling Park
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 WVSSAC Football Playoffs – AAA”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Spring Mills vs. Wheeling Park Playoff Preview: Key Stats and Insights
This Friday, November 15, a high-stakes playoff game will bring together two formidable West Virginia high school football teams: Spring Mills and Wheeling Park. Both teams have demonstrated strong performances in the 2024-2025 season, though each brings different strengths and challenges to the table. With Spring Mills looking to repeat their dominant September victory, the game promises intense competition. Here’s a closer look at their records, team stats, and what to expect.
Season Overview
Spring Mills Cardinals
- Record: 6-5 overall, 2-3 in their region
- Home Record: 3-4
- Away Record: 3-1
- Scoring Averages:
- Points per game: 23.4
- Points against: 45
The Spring Mills Cardinals have experienced a mixed season but have managed impressive wins against key opponents. They notably shut out Wheeling Park earlier in the season with a 27-0 victory on September 6. Their away record stands out at 3-1, demonstrating the Cardinals’ resilience in non-home games—a promising sign heading into another game on Wheeling Park’s turf.
Wheeling Park Patriots
- Record: 7-3 overall, 4-0 in their region
- Home Record: 3-2
- Away Record: 4-1
- Scoring Averages:
- Points per game: 29.4
- Points against: 251
The Wheeling Park Patriots boast a more consistent season record with a 7-3 finish and an unbeaten regional record of 4-0. Their ability to perform under pressure, especially at home, could give them an edge in the playoffs. Despite a previous loss to Spring Mills, Wheeling Park’s higher scoring average suggests they have the offensive capabilities to pose a real threat.
Key Offensive and Defensive Stats
Both teams have robust offenses, with Wheeling Park slightly edging Spring Mills in total scoring. Here’s a comparison of their average yards per game and other pivotal stats:
| Metric | Spring Mills | Wheeling Park |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 187.7 | – |
| Passing Yards/Game | 146.3 | – |
| Total Yards/Game | 334.0 | – |
| Tackles/Game | 64.4 | – |
| Sacks/Game | 1.4 | – |
Team Leaders
Spring Mills has some standout players who have been key contributors this season:
- Brennan Wack (#4) – Rushing Yards/Game: 175.3, Total Yards/Game: 190.0
- Jay Bordas (#2) – Passing Yards/Game: 146.3
- Jameson Maynard (#22) – Tackles/Game: 12.7
- Noah Short (#5) – Sacks/Game: 0.5
Wheeling Park’s top athletes have also made notable impacts, though specific stats for individual Patriots are not available. Their overall higher scoring average and consistent performance across the season demonstrate a balanced and reliable team.
Head-to-Head and Common Opponents
Spring Mills leads 1-0 in head-to-head matchups this season after their earlier 27-0 shutout victory against Wheeling Park. However, Wheeling Park has fared better against shared opponents, winning all three matchups while Spring Mills finished 2-1.
Common Opponent Results
- Musselman: Wheeling Park won 48-13, while Spring Mills lost 10-0.
- University: Both teams won against University (Spring Mills 34-6, Wheeling Park 35-22).
- Parkersburg South: Both teams secured victories, with Spring Mills dominating 37-0 and Wheeling Park winning 35-14.
Wheeling Park’s performance against common opponents hints at a stronger offense compared to Spring Mills, despite their loss in the September matchup.
What to Watch For
Spring Mills Defense
With a high tackle average led by linebacker Jameson Maynard, Spring Mills’ defense has been critical in their key wins. Their ability to hold opponents scoreless, as seen in the previous Wheeling Park game, may play a decisive role if they can contain Wheeling Park’s offense once again.
Wheeling Park’s Home Advantage and Consistent Offense
Wheeling Park’s ability to score consistently throughout all quarters, coupled with a strong home record, could challenge Spring Mills’ defense. With their top offensive players likely aiming to avenge their September loss, Wheeling Park’s advantage lies in maintaining steady offensive pressure.
Final Prediction
This game could easily go either way. Spring Mills brings the confidence of a previous win, while Wheeling Park brings consistency and the advantage of playing at home. Whichever team can capitalize on turnovers and control possession will likely come out on top. It’s set to be an intense battle as both teams look to advance in the playoffs.
