The Taft varsity football team from Cincinnati, OH, will host a playoff game against Indian Valley from Gnadenhutten, OH, on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio) – Division IV Final Four tournament.

Taft vs Indian Valley Football Game Info:

What: Ohio High School Football
Who: Taft vs Indian Valley
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio) – Division IV Final Four
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Game preview: Taft vs Indian Valley

As the high school football season marches toward its thrilling conclusion, two Ohio teams stand tall, ready to showcase their dominance: Indian Valley and Taft. Both programs have cemented themselves among the elite, with stellar records, impressive stats, and key players leading their respective charges. Here’s a breakdown of their season so far, key matchups, and what makes each team formidable.

Season Records and Rankings

Indian Valley enters this potential showdown with a flawless 14-0 record, earning a Division 4 ranking of 50 in Ohio. Their dominance extends to both conference (5-0) and non-league (5-0) play, with a perfect home (7-0) and away (6-0) record. They’ve outscored opponents by a staggering margin of 640-246.

Meanwhile, Taft boasts an impressive 12-2 record, ranked 65th in Division 6. Their strong conference (4-1) and non-conference (4-1) showings, along with a near-perfect home (7-1) and away (5-1) record, reflect a team capable of contending at the highest level. Their defense has been particularly noteworthy, allowing just 106 points while scoring 574.

Team Averages: Offense and Scoring

• Indian Valley has averaged an astonishing 45.7 points per game, often jumping out early with dominant first and second quarters (13.3 and 16.2 points, respectively).
• Taft, while slightly lower overall, has averaged 41.0 points per game, showing resilience with strong performances in the first (14.3) and fourth (8.8) quarters.

Statistical Dominance

Indian Valley’s offense is driven by a ground game that produces 362.1 rushing yards per game, complemented by modest passing (72.0) and receiving (72.0) yardage. Their total offensive output of 434.1 yards per game is a testament to their versatility and efficiency. On defense, they average 70.3 tackles and 2.9 sacks per game.

Key Players to Watch

• Indian Valley:
  • Grady Kinsey (#22) has been unstoppable, averaging 218.8 rushing yards per game and 222.5 total yards, along with a staggering 19.4 points per game.
  • Ryker Williams (#8) contributes 71.1 passing yards per game and leads the team with 0.6 sacks per game.
  • Jaxon Burcher (#18) anchors the defense, averaging 6.8 tackles per game.
• Taft: While individual stats weren’t detailed, Taft’s balanced offensive and defensive performances suggest a team with multiple contributors capable of rising to the occasion.

Comparative Strengths

• Indian Valley’s offense has been nearly unstoppable, relying on a dominant rushing attack led by Kinsey and their ability to control the clock.
• Taft counters with a defense that has allowed just 7.6 points per game, showcasing discipline and physicality. Their ability to neutralize opponents’ strengths will be critical against Indian Valley’s multifaceted attack.

What Lies Ahead

Both teams enter the playoffs with unblemished postseason records this year (4-0). While they have yet to face each other or share common opponents, their consistent dominance suggests this matchup, should it happen, would be a clash of titans.

Final Thoughts

Indian Valley’s sheer offensive firepower and perfect season give them an edge, but Taft’s staunch defense and well-rounded gameplay make them a formidable adversary. Whether on the ground or through gritty defense, this matchup would be a high-stakes thriller that could come down to the wire.

High school football fans should keep their eyes on these teams as they aim to finish their seasons with championship glory.