The Vandegrift varsity football team from Austin, TX, will face off against Summer Creek from Houston, TX, in a neutral playoff game today at 7 PM. The game will take place at McLane Stadium, Baylor University, as part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, specifically the Conference 6A Division 2 tournament.
Summer Creek vs Vandegrift Football Game Info:
What: UIL Football Semifinal 2024
Who: Summer Creek vs Vandegrift
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Summer Creek vs Vandegrift
As the 2024 UIL Football Semifinals approach, the showdown between Summer Creek and Vandegrift promises to be a clash of two formidable teams. With stellar seasons behind them, these programs bring unique strengths to the field, setting the stage for a thrilling matchup.
Team Profiles and Rankings
Summer Creek
- National Rank: 38
- Texas Rank: 10
- State Division Rank: 8
- Record: 12-2 (5-2 in district)
- Playoff Record: 4-0
Vandegrift
- National Rank: 56
- Texas Rank: 25
- State Division Rank: 18
- Record: 13-1 (8-0 in district)
- Playoff Record: 4-0
Offensive Firepower
Both teams boast high-scoring offenses, with Summer Creek averaging 48.9 points per game and Vandegrift close behind at 41.0 points per game. The key to this game may lie in how well each team capitalizes on its offensive strengths:
- Summer Creek relies on QB Blake Thomas, who averages 206.3 passing yards per game, and running back Blake Thomas, contributing 51.3 rushing yards per game. Combined with receiver Benny Easter Jr., who averages 64.4 receiving yards per game, Summer Creek thrives on explosive plays.
- Vandegrift, led by QB Miles Teodecki (193.7 passing yards per game) and RB Griffin Gorrebeeck (123.0 rushing yards per game), takes a balanced approach. Their leading receiver, Brock Chilton, averages 64.6 receiving yards per game, showcasing their depth in attack.
Defensive Matchup
Defensively, Summer Creek brings more pressure, averaging 4.1 sacks per game, compared to Vandegrift’s 2.1 sacks per game. Key players like Chad Woodfork (0.9 sacks per game) and Tyson Joiner (6.4 tackles per game) will play pivotal roles in disrupting Vandegrift’s rhythm.
Vandegrift, however, counters with a solid defensive unit led by Hollister Stephens (6.1 tackles per game) and Daeshon Morgan (0.7 sacks per game). Their ability to limit scoring opportunities has been crucial all season, as evidenced by their 186 points allowed, compared to Summer Creek’s 162 points allowed.
Scoring Trends
Scoring patterns indicate a dynamic first half, with both teams excelling early:
- Summer Creek: 28.2 points combined in the first two quarters.
- Vandegrift: 29.1 points combined in the first half.
The second half, however, sees a drop-off, particularly for Vandegrift, who averages just 14 points in the third and fourth quarters combined. Summer Creek, with its deeper offensive output, averages 22.8 second-half points, which could give them an edge in a tightly contested game.
Key to Victory
- For Summer Creek: Leveraging their offensive versatility and keeping Blake Thomas involved both in the air and on the ground. Their defense must capitalize on Vandegrift’s second-half scoring dip.
- For Vandegrift: Establishing control early and relying on their disciplined defense to contain Summer Creek’s explosive offense. Gorrebeeck’s ground game could be the X-factor in controlling time of possession.
Predicted Impact Players
- Summer Creek: Blake Thomas (QB/RB), Benny Easter Jr. (WR), Tyson Joiner (LB)
- Vandegrift: Miles Teodecki (QB), Griffin Gorrebeeck (RB), Brendan Fournier (K)
Final Thoughts
This semifinal is more than a matchup of statistics; it’s a battle of strategies and execution. With both teams bringing high stakes and unmatched determination, fans can expect a nail-biter. The winner will secure a coveted spot in the UIL Football Championship, continuing their journey toward Texas high school football glory.
Who will prevail? The explosive power of Summer Creek or the balanced efficiency of Vandegrift? Only time will tell.
