The Tidehaven Tigers (El Maton, TX) varsity football team will face the Van Vleck Leopards (TX) in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 1:00 PM. The matchup will take place at Bay City High School and is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships—Conference 3A Division 2 tournament.
Tidehaven vs Van Vleck Game Info:
What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Tidehaven vs Van Vleck
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 3A D2
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Game preview: Tidehaven vs Van Vleck
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The Van Vleck Leopards (6-6) and the Tidehaven Tigers (10-2) are set to clash in a highly anticipated neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29, at 1 p.m. The two teams faced off earlier this season, with Tidehaven claiming a 21-14 victory in a hard-fought conference matchup. This rematch promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in their rivalry as both teams aim to advance deeper into the postseason.
Team Overviews and Rankings
- Van Vleck Leopards
- Overall Record: 6-6
- District Record: 2-4
- State Division Rank: 21
- Points Scored: 383 (31.9 PPG)
- Points Allowed: 308
- Key Player: Corey Austin (217.9 rushing yards per game, 16.7 points per game)
- Tidehaven Tigers
- Overall Record: 10-2
- District Record: 6-0
- State Division Rank: 11
- Points Scored: 391 (32.6 PPG)
- Points Allowed: 254
- Key Strength: Balanced offensive scoring with strong district performance (6-0)
Head-to-Head: A Battle of Strengths
In their previous meeting, Tidehaven edged out Van Vleck 21-14. Despite Van Vleck’s formidable offensive weapon, Corey Austin, the Leopards struggled to break through Tidehaven’s defense consistently. Tidehaven’s ability to close out games, especially in district play where they are unbeaten, could be pivotal.
Scoring Averages by Quarter
| Quarter | Van Vleck | Tidehaven |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 8.5 | 5.3 |
| Q2 | 8.7 | 14.0 |
| Q3 | 10.5 | 8.8 |
| Q4 | 5.7 | 7.0 |
Tidehaven dominates the second quarter, often swinging momentum in their favor, while Van Vleck shows strong third-quarter production. Both teams will need to maintain consistency throughout all four quarters to secure a win.
Statistical Comparison
Van Vleck’s offense revolves around a run-heavy scheme, averaging 304.9 rushing yards per game, with Corey Austin leading the charge. Tidehaven’s defensive strategy will likely focus on containing Austin and forcing Van Vleck into passing situations. Conversely, Tidehaven’s ability to adapt offensively has led them to dominate common opponents, as seen in their decisive 6-0 record in district games.
| Team Stat | Van Vleck | Tidehaven |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards Per Game | 371.8 | – |
| Points Per Game | 29.0 | 32.6 |
| Tackles Per Game | 66.1 | – |
Key Players to Watch
- Van Vleck:
- Corey Austin: 217.9 rushing yards per game, 16.7 points per game
- Eurelio Lopez: 11.3 tackles per game
- Tidehaven:
- Team’s depth and versatility, demonstrated by their strong district and playoff record, will be critical.
Common Opponent Analysis
Tidehaven has a 5-1 record against common opponents compared to Van Vleck’s 2-4, underscoring their superior form throughout the season. Notably, Tidehaven edged out East Bernard 29-28, a team that defeated Van Vleck 40-14.
| Common Opponent | Van Vleck Result | Tidehaven Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ganado | L 33-26 | L 42-6 |
| East Bernard | L 40-14 | W 29-28 |
| Brazos | W 45-14 | W 35-7 |
| Industrial | L 35-21 | W 21-13 |
| Rice Consol. | L 28-18 | W 49-33 |
| Boling | W 24-7 | W 28-21 |
Prediction
Van Vleck’s playoff hopes rest on Corey Austin’s ability to carry the offense, but Tidehaven’s consistent execution and depth give them the edge. Expect a close contest, but Tidehaven’s balance on both sides of the ball could secure another victory.
Prediction: Tidehaven 28, Van Vleck 21.
