The Thompson varsity football team faces Central in a highly anticipated neutral playoff game today at 7 p.m. This showdown is part of the 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs for Class 7A. Both teams are eager to advance, promising fans an intense and competitive matchup in this pivotal postseason clash.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Alabama State Football Championship
Who: Thompson (AL) vs Central (AL)
When: Today, December 30, 2024
Bracket: 2024 AHSAA Football Playoffs – 7A
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Thompson vs. Central
The 2024 AHSAA Class 7A football playoffs present a thrilling matchup between two of Alabama’s top high school football teams—Thompson and Central. With both programs achieving remarkable success this season, their clash promises to be a showcase of elite talent and strategy as they vie for a spot in the next round.
Central: Offensive Firepower and Consistency
Central boasts an impressive 10-2 record, with a .833 win percentage and a ranking of 64th nationally, 4th in Alabama, and 3rd in Class 7A. Their high-powered offense has been their hallmark, scoring 494 points this season while allowing 240. Central’s ability to put up points consistently across all quarters is evident in their scoring averages, with 8.4 points in the first quarter, a dominant 13.3 in the second, 9.0 in the third, and 9.5 in the fourth.
This consistency has been key to their success in both home and neutral games, where they are undefeated (2-0) on neutral turf. With a balanced approach and a strong scoring drive, Central enters this game as a formidable contender.
Thompson: A Balanced Attack and Staunch Defense
Thompson, ranked 43rd nationally, 2nd in Alabama, and 1st in Class 7A, has also enjoyed an exceptional season with a 10-3 record and a .769 win percentage. Their performance in region play has been particularly strong, with a 6-1 record, reflecting their dominance in crucial games.
While Thompson’s offense has scored slightly fewer points (424) than Central’s, their defense has been significantly stronger, allowing only 173 points this season. Thompson’s scoring averages highlight a steady and reliable attack, with 6.8 points in the first quarter, 10.5 in the second, 7.5 in the third, and 4.7 in the fourth. Their ability to perform in overtime, averaging 6.3 points, adds an extra layer of competitiveness to their game.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Central’s explosive offense averages 41.2 points per game compared to Thompson’s 32.6, giving them a clear edge in scoring output. However, Thompson’s defense, which has allowed nearly 70 fewer points than Central, could be the deciding factor in neutralizing Central’s offensive advantage.
Both teams are undefeated on neutral ground this season, setting the stage for a fiercely contested game. Central’s ability to dominate in the second quarter may clash with Thompson’s strong defensive strategy, making this a classic battle of offense versus defense.
What’s at Stake
This playoff game isn’t just about advancing to the next round; it’s about cementing a legacy in the 2024-25 season. For Central, maintaining their offensive momentum will be key. For Thompson, leveraging their defensive strength and capitalizing on critical moments could lead to victory.
Team Stat Comparison
The matchup between Central and Thompson highlights two strong teams with differing strengths. Here’s a breakdown of their performance metrics:
| Statistic | Central | Thompson |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 180.3 | 158.1 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 214.8 | 198.8 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 214.8 | 199.2 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 395.0 | 356.8 |
| Tackles Per Game | 61.2 | 85.0 |
| Sacks Per Game | 3.0 | 1.8 |
| Points Per Game | 41.0 | 32.6 |
Team Leaders
Both teams have standout players who consistently deliver exceptional performances:
| Category | Central Player (#) | Central Avg. | Thompson Player (#) | Thompson Avg. | National Avg. |
| Rushing Yards Per Game | Tristan Williams (#24) | 102.7 | Michael Dujon (#5) | 75.8 | 20.0 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | Andrew Alford (#13) | 197.2 | Trent Seaborn (#12) | 195.8 | 50.6 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | Daylyn Upshaw (#5) | 84.0 | Darion Moseley (#3) | 69.6 | 17.2 |
| Total Yards Per Game | Andrew Alford (#13) | 200.3 | Trent Seaborn (#12) | 212.6 | 36.3 |
| Tackles Per Game | Brennan Core (#11) | 8.4 | Vini Pires (#1) | 9.3 | 2.7 |
| Sacks Per Game | Tristan Lyles (#9) | 1.1 | Jared Smith (#4) | 0.8 | 0.2 |
| Points Per Game | Tristan Williams (#24) | 9.7 | Michael Dujon (#5) | 7.4 | 2.5 |
Common Opponents
Both teams faced four common opponents this season, each earning a 3-1 record. Here’s a summary of their performances:
| Date | Central Game | Result | Date | Thompson Game | Result |
| 9/20/24 | Enterprise @ Central | Win 34-21 | 11/22/24 | Thompson @ Enterprise | Win 31-7 |
| 10/4/24 | Auburn @ Central | Loss 38-33 | 11/15/24 | Thompson @ Auburn | Win 34-21 |
| 11/15/24 | Central @ Vestavia Hills | Win 41-21 | 9/20/24 | Thompson @ Vestavia Hills | Win 38-17 |
| 11/22/24 | Central @ Hoover | Win 17-7 | 10/18/24 | Hoover @ Thompson | Loss 27-26 |
Record Breakdown
A look at the records reveals just how competitive these teams are:
| Category | Central | Thompson |
| Overall | 10-2 | 10-3 |
| League | 5-2 | 6-1 |
| Non-League | 2-0 | 1-2 |
| Head-to-Head | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Common Opponent | 3-1 | 3-1 |
| Home | 5-1 | 4-3 |
| Away | 3-1 | 4-0 |
| Neutral | 2-0 | 2-0 |
| Playoff | 3-0 | 3-0 |
| In-State | 9-2 | 9-2 |
| Out-of-State | 1-0 | 1-1 |
This analysis highlights key differences and strengths, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter between two formidable teams.
Conclusion
Thompson versus Central is more than just a playoff game—it’s a showcase of two elite programs. With Central’s high-powered offense and Thompson’s balanced and disciplined approach, fans are in for an unforgettable matchup. Who will emerge victorious? The answer lies on the field under the Friday night lights.
