The Tidehaven varsity football team from El Maton, TX, will host a playoff game against Thrall, TX, on Friday, November 15, at 7 PM at Flatonia High School. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 3A Division 2” tournament.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Tidehaven vs Thrall
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 3A D2
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Game preview: Tidehaven vs Thrall
As we edge closer to one of the most anticipated matchups in Texas high school football, Thrall and Tidehaven prepare to face off in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance this season but have followed different paths, marked by distinct records, scoring trends, and strengths. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this game one to watch.
Team Overview and Records
Thrall Tigers (6-4 Overall, 1-3 District)
- State Division Rank: 45th
- Overall Points For (PF): 405
- Overall Points Against (PA): 375
- Home Record: 4-1
- Away Record: 1-3
- Neutral Record: 1-0
- Winning Percentage: 60%
- District Winning Percentage: 25%
Thrall has had a rollercoaster season, with a 6-4 overall record and a notable strength at home. Despite an impressive offense that averages 40.5 points per game, their defense has shown vulnerability, surrendering 375 points over the course of the season. In district play, their 1-3 record highlights some struggles against tougher competition.
Tidehaven Tigers (8-2 Overall, 6-0 District)
- State Division Rank: 9th
- Overall Points For (PF): 273
- Overall Points Against (PA): 210
- Home Record: 3-2
- Away Record: 5-0
- Winning Percentage: 80%
- District Winning Percentage: 100%
Tidehaven’s stellar season is defined by an unbeaten 6-0 district run. They have been exceptional on the road, with a perfect 5-0 away record, underscoring their adaptability and resilience in challenging environments. While their overall scoring average of 27.3 points per game is lower than Thrall’s, their defense has been more consistent, allowing only 210 points this season.
Scoring Trends and Key Quarters
Thrall’s Scoring Breakdown:
- 1st Quarter: 10.8 PPG
- 2nd Quarter: 5.7 PPG
- 3rd Quarter: 10.3 PPG
- 4th Quarter: 8.0 PPG
- Total: 40.5 PPG
Thrall’s offense comes out of the gates firing, averaging a strong 10.8 points in the opening quarter. Their scoring dips in the second quarter but rebounds after halftime, suggesting effective halftime adjustments. However, the team must maintain consistency across all quarters to avoid late-game vulnerabilities.
Tidehaven’s Scoring Breakdown:
- 1st Quarter: 4.7 PPG
- 2nd Quarter: 11.7 PPG
- 3rd Quarter: 7.0 PPG
- 4th Quarter: 4.7 PPG
- Total: 27.3 PPG
Tidehaven’s offense builds momentum gradually, with a strong second quarter averaging 11.7 points. Their scoring tapers off as the game progresses, putting pressure on their defense to sustain leads. This methodical style has worked well in district play but could be tested against Thrall’s high-scoring attack.
Head-to-Head Comparison and Playoff Implications
Neither team has faced each other directly this season, making their matchup unpredictable. While Thrall boasts a potent offense, Tidehaven’s balanced approach and unblemished district record speak volumes about their ability to perform under pressure. With no prior head-to-head matchups to analyze, the game will come down to how well each team can exploit the other’s weaknesses.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Stability: Thrall’s high-octane offense meets a disciplined Tidehaven defense. If Thrall can set the tempo early, it could force Tidehaven into an uncomfortable game plan.
- Road Warriors: Tidehaven’s perfect away record indicates they thrive under adversity. Can Thrall’s home advantage disrupt that trend?
- District Dominance: Tidehaven has been unstoppable in district play. This game will test if Thrall can finally crack the code and cause an upset.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
With contrasting styles and a lot at stake, this matchup could swing in either direction. Thrall’s ability to put up big numbers will be crucial, but they must shore up defensively to stand a chance. Meanwhile, Tidehaven’s well-rounded approach and flawless district campaign give them the edge in terms of momentum.
Will Thrall’s explosive offense outlast Tidehaven’s defensive resilience, or will Tidehaven continue their dominant run and cement their place as one of Texas’s top teams? Football fans won’t want to miss this one!
