Articles

TAPPS Division I Playoff St. Thomas Catholic vs Liberty Christian (11/30/24)

TAPPS Division I Playoff St. Thomas Catholic vs Liberty Christian (11/30/24)

The Liberty Christian varsity football team (Argyle, TX) will host St. Thomas Catholic (Houston, TX) in a home playoff game today at 5 p.m. This matchup is part of the TAPPS 2024 High School Football Playoff in the TAPPS Division I tournament.

St. Thomas Catholic vs Liberty Christian Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: St. Thomas Catholic vs Liberty Christian
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Bracket: TAPPS 2024 High School Football Playoff – TAPPS Division I
Time: 5:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: St. Thomas Catholic vs Liberty Christian

In the competitive landscape of Texas high school football, two powerhouse teams, St. Thomas Catholic and Liberty Christian, have set the stage for an exciting matchup. Both teams have shown impressive performances this season, with records that reflect their hard-fought battles. Here’s a closer look at how these teams stack up against each other in terms of overall performance, team stats, and key player contributions.

Overall Records and Rankings

St. Thomas Catholic, with a record of 7-5, has had a solid season. They finished 5-2 in district play, with a win percentage of .583, showcasing their ability to compete in a tough league. Their scoring efficiency is reflected in a total of 368 points scored against 239 points allowed, averaging 30.7 points per game.

Liberty Christian, on the other hand, has been dominant throughout the season, posting a remarkable 10-1 record. With a perfect 6-0 district record, Liberty Christian enters this matchup as the top contender, with an impressive win percentage of .909. They have outscored their opponents with a total of 551 points, yielding only 176 points, and averaging a staggering 50.1 points per game.

Team Scoring Averages

When it comes to scoring, Liberty Christian clearly holds the upper hand. They start strong in every quarter, with an average of 16.1 points in the first quarter and 22.0 points in the second. By the end of the game, they maintain a robust offensive output with 50.1 points per game.

St. Thomas Catholic’s scoring averages are more balanced, with 8.5 points in the first quarter, 10.4 in the second, 5.6 in the third, and 4.6 in the fourth. Their total of 30.7 points per game is respectable, but it falls short when compared to Liberty Christian’s high-powered offense.

Team Stat Comparison

In terms of yardage, Liberty Christian has a clear advantage in almost every category. They average 424.4 total yards per game, significantly higher than St. Thomas Catholic’s 370.2. Liberty Christian also leads in passing yards (243.6 yards per game vs. 235.3), receiving yards (244.6 vs. 235.3), and rushing yards (180.7 vs. 134.8).

Despite trailing in total yards, St. Thomas Catholic has been more efficient in tackles, averaging 65.6 tackles per game compared to Liberty Christian’s 58.6. St. Thomas Catholic also slightly edges Liberty Christian in sacks with 1.8 per game, compared to 1.3 for Liberty Christian.

Key Players to Watch

Both teams feature standout players who have made significant contributions to their team’s success this season.

  • St. Thomas Catholic:
    • Wells Granger has been a standout performer, averaging 46.6 rushing yards per game.
    • Roy Thomas Jenkins leads in passing yards, with 157.1 yards per game.
    • Nate Tidwell has been a reliable target, contributing 80.6 receiving yards per game.
    • Liam McCarthy is the team’s leader in tackles, averaging 9.3 per game.
  • Liberty Christian:
    • Chase Garnett has been a dynamic force, leading the team with 124.4 rushing yards per game.
    • Quinn Murphy has been efficient, averaging 232.3 passing yards per game, while also contributing to the team’s total yards.
    • Jaylon Hawkins has been a standout in receiving, with 88.2 yards per game.
    • C.J. Witten has been the top tackler, with an average of 8.9 tackles per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Trinity Christian this season, and both came out victorious. St. Thomas Catholic defeated them 31-19, while Liberty Christian delivered a commanding 56-0 win.

Head-to-Head Record and Playoff Performance

While both teams have dominated in their respective seasons, their playoff experience this year could be a critical factor. St. Thomas Catholic has a 2-0 playoff record, while Liberty Christian has posted a 1-0 record, with both teams looking to extend their postseason runs.

Conclusion

As the season unfolds, it’s clear that Liberty Christian enters this game as the favorite with its high-octane offense and undefeated district record. However, St. Thomas Catholic will be looking to pull off an upset with its solid defense and balanced scoring attack. With both teams boasting exceptional talent, this matchup is sure to be a thrilling contest as the two Texas high school football powerhouses collide.

Post Comment