The Sugar-Salem (Sugar City, ID) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Kimberly (ID) today at 8:15 p.m.

What: Idaho High School Football
Who: Sugar-Salem (ID) vs Kimberly (ID)
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

A Clash of Titans: Kimberly vs. Sugar-Salem Football Showdown

As the football season reaches its peak, two powerhouse teams are set to face off in an electrifying neutral-site playoff game: Kimberly and Sugar-Salem. With both teams enjoying successful campaigns, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, showcasing exceptional talent and fierce competition.

Team Overview

Kimberly has been strong throughout the season, posting a solid 7-3 overall record, with a perfect 4-0 record in league play. Their season has been marked by a balanced offensive and defensive approach, averaging 34.4 points per game. The team’s attack is led by key players such as Macraye Bruning, who excels in both passing and total yards, and Joe Barrett, who leads the team in receiving yards and points per game. On defense, Johnny Millenkamp has been a standout, contributing significantly with tackles and sacks.

On the other hand, Sugar-Salem boasts a 7-2 overall record and an undefeated 2-0 conference record. The team’s offensive strength is undeniable, averaging an impressive 41.4 points per game, and they have been particularly strong in the running game, averaging 246.2 rushing yards per game. Dawson Mcinelly has been the star player for Sugar-Salem, leading the team in rushing yards and total yards, while Abe Baldwin has been a consistent target in the receiving game. Despite their potent offense, Sugar-Salem’s defense, led by Kace Malstrom, will need to step up to contend with Kimberly’s balanced attack.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The first meeting between these two teams this season came on September 20, 2024, in a non-conference clash. Kimberly emerged victorious in a tight contest, winning 17-14. The game was a dramatic one, with Kimberly rallying in the final quarter to secure the win. Kimberly’s defense held strong in the second half, allowing only 7 points, while their offense capitalized on key moments to edge out Sugar-Salem.

Looking ahead to the playoff matchup, both teams will need to adjust their strategies to account for each other’s strengths. Kimberly will look to capitalize on their defensive prowess and well-rounded offense, while Sugar-Salem will rely on their dynamic running game and ability to put up big points quickly.

Statistical Breakdown

• Kimberly’s Offensive Strengths: The team excels in passing with Macraye Bruning leading the charge, averaging 184.1 passing yards per game. Damon Taylor has also been a workhorse on the ground, averaging 126.3 rushing yards per game.
• Sugar-Salem’s Offensive Dominance: Sugar-Salem relies heavily on their ground game, with Dawson Mcinelly averaging 103.3 rushing yards per game. Their passing game is efficient, but they are most dangerous when pounding the ball. As a team, they average 246.2 rushing yards per game.
• Kimberly’s Defensive Play: Kimberly’s defense has been solid, averaging 65.5 tackles per game and 1.3 sacks per game. The defensive unit will need to be sharp to contain Sugar-Salem’s powerful ground game.
• Sugar-Salem’s Defense: While Sugar-Salem’s defense has been effective, with 58.6 tackles per game, it will be tested against Kimberly’s offensive balance. The team averages 0.9 sacks per game, and players like Kace Malstrom and Ben Aldrich will need to make plays at key moments.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Snake River during the season, with Kimberly defeating Snake River 28-24, while Sugar-Salem dominated Snake River 41-6 in their earlier matchups. This comparison highlights both teams’ ability to handle tough opponents, though Sugar-Salem’s dominant wins in these games could give them a slight psychological advantage.

Key Players to Watch

• Kimberly: Macraye Bruning (QB), Damon Taylor (RB), Johnny Millenkamp (LB)
• Sugar-Salem: Dawson Mcinelly (RB), Abe Baldwin (WR), Kace Malstrom (LB)

Final Thoughts

The Kimberly vs. Sugar-Salem playoff game is shaping up to be a memorable contest. Kimberly’s balanced approach will face off against Sugar-Salem’s high-powered offense, with both teams bringing strong defenses to the table. The key to victory will lie in which team can impose their game plan more effectively—whether it’s Kimberly’s ability to contain the run or Sugar-Salem’s ability to break through the defensive line with their potent rushing attack.

With both teams boasting strong records and impressive individual performances, football fans can expect an intense and competitive game as these two rivals battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.