The Sumter (SC) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against James Island (Charleston, SC) on Friday, November 29, at 7:30 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 1 tournament.

Sumter vs James Island Football Game Info:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Sumter vs James Island
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina Football State Championships (SCHSL) – Class AAAAA Football: Division 1
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Game preview: Sumter vs James Island

As the 2024 high school football season continues to unfold, two South Carolina powerhouses—James Island and Sumter—are making waves in their respective regions. With strong records, both teams have built a reputation for success. Here’s an in-depth look at their performance so far and a comparison of the teams ahead of their next meeting.

Team Records and Performance

James Island (10-2 overall, 3-2 in region) has posted an impressive record in the 2024 season. With a solid 6-1 record at home and 4-1 on the road, the team has demonstrated resilience. The Islanders’ offense has scored an average of 21 points per game, totaling 252 points across the season while conceding just 96 points. Their high win percentage of .833 underscores their dominance, particularly in away games.

On the other hand, Sumter (11-0 overall, 6-0 in region) remains undefeated this season, standing out with a perfect 1.000 win percentage. The Gamecocks have been nearly unstoppable, with a 6-0 record at home and 5-0 on the road. Sumter has put up a staggering 547 points (an average of 49.7 per game), while allowing 196. This offensive power and defensive consistency have placed them firmly atop their region and state rankings.

Scoring Averages

• James Island: The Islanders have shown balance across quarters, with solid performances in the first and second quarters, averaging 5.4 and 4.6 points, respectively. They hold their own in the fourth quarter with an average of 5.0 points. However, their second-half scoring has dipped slightly, with just 3.9 points per game in the third quarter.
• Sumter: The Gamecocks have been a high-powered team from the opening whistle, posting 17.3 points in the first quarter, followed by 14.2 in the second. Their third-quarter scoring remains consistent at 12.4, and they finish strong with 5.6 points in the fourth quarter. Their overall scoring average of 49.7 points per game is a testament to their offensive dominance.

Statistical Comparison

Rushing Yards:

• James Island: 97.3 yards per game
• Sumter: 339.7 yards per game

Sumter excels in the ground game, outpacing James Island by over 240 yards per game. With a dynamic running back group, the Gamecocks have proven to be a force on the ground.

Passing Yards:

• James Island: 118.4 yards per game
• Sumter: 102.5 yards per game

While James Island has a slight edge in passing yards, Sumter has been effective in maintaining a balanced attack, with their run game often leading the charge.

Total Yards:

• James Island: 215.7 yards per game
• Sumter: 442.2 yards per game

Sumter’s total yardage shows a significant gap, reflecting their explosive offense that can strike in both the air and on the ground.

Defense:

• James Island: 23.2 tackles per game, 1.2 sacks per game
• Sumter: 70.3 tackles per game, 1.8 sacks per game

Sumter’s defense is more aggressive, with a substantially higher tackle count per game. Their ability to disrupt opposing offenses through tackles and sacks is evident.

Team Leaders

• James Island:
  • Rushing: #6 Amor Scott, 94.0 yards per game
  • Passing: #16 Connor Dantzler, 139.0 yards per game
  • Receiving: #5 Dj Wright, 28.5 yards per game
  • Total Yards: #16 Connor Dantzler, 142.5 yards per game
  • Tackles: #35 Coleman Jones, 6.2 tackles per game
  • Points: #6 Amor Scott, 6.0 points per game
• Sumter:
  • Rushing: #3 John Peeples, 129.3 yards per game
  • Passing: #10 Franklin Richardson, 102.5 yards per game
  • Receiving: #14 Christopher Bentley, 60.4 yards per game
  • Total Yards: #10 Franklin Richardson, 175.6 yards per game
  • Tackles: #7 Jb Burson, 9.1 tackles per game
  • Points: #3 John Peeples, 18.4 points per game

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Ashley Ridge, with each securing a victory. James Island won 30-20 on the road, while Sumter triumphed 55-24 at home. This highlights both teams’ ability to dominate common opponents, setting the stage for an exciting matchup when they meet later in the season.

Head-to-Head Record

James Island and Sumter are both formidable teams in their own right, but with the edge in overall record and performance, Sumter holds the advantage heading into their potential postseason clash. The Gamecocks’ undefeated season speaks volumes about their strength across the board.

Outlook

As the postseason draws near, Sumter looks poised to continue their perfect season, but James Island will be a tough opponent with its well-balanced team. With their high-powered offense and stifling defense, Sumter remains the team to beat, though James Island will certainly look to spoil the Gamecocks’ championship aspirations.

In conclusion, the 2024 football season has seen both teams excel, and the anticipated showdown will undoubtedly be a highlight of the state playoffs.