The Taft (Lincoln City, OR) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Vale (OR) today at 7 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSAA – 3A tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Oregon High School Football
Who: Taft vs Vale
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oregon High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSAA – 3A
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Game preview: Taft vs Vale

As the 2024-2025 high school football season nears its thrilling conclusion, two teams have emerged as formidable contenders: Vale and Taft. Both schools have impressed with outstanding performances, but when it comes to sheer dominance, Vale has been the team to beat.

Vale: A Perfect Record

Vale’s football team enters this matchup with an immaculate 10-0 record, showcasing their superiority throughout the season. The team, which has excelled both at home and away, boasts a flawless 4-0 record in the league. With an average of 39 points per game, the Vale offense is firing on all cylinders, led by key players like Trenton Battle, who dominates the rushing game, and Ezra James, who is crucial in the passing attack. Defensively, Jorge Cruz’s 9.0 tackles per game have been instrumental in keeping opponents at bay, while Juan Hernandez adds pressure with a sack per game.

With a remarkable offensive output of 390 points scored and only 82 points allowed, Vale has shown that their balance between offense and defense is second to none. They have not only impressed in their league, but they’ve also shown their ability to dominate on neutral ground, posting a perfect 4-0 record in such games. Vale’s success this season is built on a powerful blend of rushing, passing, and stellar defense, making them the team to watch in the upcoming playoffs.

Taft: Strong, But Falling Just Short

While Vale may boast a perfect season, Taft has proven to be a worthy adversary with an 8-2 overall record. The Taft team has had an impressive league showing, finishing with a 6-1 record. Though their offensive output is slightly lower than Vale’s, scoring an average of 39.3 points per game, Taft’s offense remains dangerous, with 393 points scored throughout the season. Despite their success, the team has been inconsistent at times, particularly in their non-league games, where they posted a 1-1 record.

The Taft offense is led by a potent passing game, averaging 231.9 yards per game, with standout performances from players like Kol Tolan, who has racked up 87.7 receiving yards per game. Taft’s defense, however, has been a bit more vulnerable than Vale’s, allowing 149 points this season.

Comparing the Two Powerhouses

• Offensive Play: Vale’s offensive output has been nothing short of explosive, averaging 358.3 total yards per game, with an incredible 231.9 passing yards and 126.4 rushing yards per game. In comparison, Taft’s offensive game leans more heavily on passing, with 231.9 yards per game through the air. Both teams have excelled in the passing game, but Vale’s balanced approach has given them the edge.
• Defensive Strength: Vale has proven to be a juggernaut defensively, allowing just 82 points all season. Taft, on the other hand, has allowed 149 points, although they still manage to keep opponents in check most of the time. Vale’s defense, led by Cruz’s tackle leadership, has been more consistent in limiting yardage and scoring opportunities.
• Special Teams and Key Players: Vale has been led by standout individuals, including Trenton Battle (12.0 points per game), Ezra James (263.9 total yards per game), and Kol Tolan (87.7 receiving yards per game). Taft counters with strong playmakers, particularly Kol Tolan’s receiving numbers, but they haven’t matched Vale’s all-around dominance.

Head-to-Head and Outlook

While these teams have not faced each other this season, the upcoming matchup is poised to be a thrilling battle. Vale’s perfect record speaks volumes, and their well-rounded game plan will certainly be a tough challenge for Taft, who has had a strong season but faced some inconsistencies. As the playoffs approach, Vale seems to have the upper hand, but Taft’s explosive offense and gritty defense are sure to make for an exciting contest.

Both teams have shown they can rise to the occasion, but with a flawless season and impressive depth, Vale enters the contest as the team to beat. However, Taft’s resilience could surprise many, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown that fans won’t want to miss.

Key Stats:

• Vale: 10-0 overall, 4-0 in league, 390 points scored, 82 points allowed.
• Taft: 8-2 overall, 6-1 in league, 393 points scored, 149 points allowed.
• Vale’s Top Performers: Trenton Battle (Rushing), Ezra James (Passing), Kol Tolan (Receiving).
• Taft’s Top Performers: Kol Tolan (Receiving), Ezra James (Passing), Jorge Cruz (Tackles).

As the season heads into its final stages, the clash between Vale and Taft will undoubtedly be a highly anticipated matchup, showcasing two of the best teams in high school football.