The Burke Catholic (Goshen, NY) varsity football team will face Tuckahoe (Eastchester, NY) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 4 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: New York High School Football
Who: Tuckahoe vs Burke Catholic
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 NYSPHSAA Football Championships – Class D
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Tuckahoe vs. Burke Catholic
The Tuckahoe Tigers (6-3) face the Burke Catholic Eagles (8-1) in what promises to be a thrilling postseason clash. Burke Catholic enters the matchup as the favorite with a dominant regular season and a potent offense, while Tuckahoe looks to leverage its standout players and recent momentum to pull off the upset.
Season Recap: Tuckahoe Tigers
- Record: 6-3
- Points For/Against: 210 PF, 113 PA
- Scoring Average: 23.3 points per game
Tuckahoe’s season has been marked by consistent play, especially at home, where they remain unbeaten. While their offense scores at a respectable rate (23.3 PPG), their defense has kept them in games by limiting opponents to just over 12 points per game on average. They are led by standout performer Connor Brice, who has been a force both on the ground and through the air.
Key Players:
- Connor Brice: 209 total yards per game, contributing as the team’s top rusher, passer, and scorer.
- Matt Gardere: Defensive leader with 9.9 tackles per game.
Season Recap: Burke Catholic Eagles
- Record: 8-1
- Points For/Against: 331 PF, 101 PA
- Scoring Average: 36.9 points per game
Burke Catholic has had a stellar season, showcasing a balanced offense and a stout defense. Averaging nearly 37 points per game, their offense is spearheaded by Justin Mazzie, a dynamic rusher, and Tim Brogan, a consistent passer. Their defense has been equally dominant, allowing only 101 points all season, bolstered by playmakers like Nasir Aymat, who leads the team in sacks.
Key Players:
- Justin Mazzie: Averaging 111.7 rushing yards and 11.3 points per game.
- Tim Brogan: 96.4 passing yards per game.
- Nasir Aymat: Defensive presence with 1.0 sacks per game.
Team Stat Comparison
| Category | Tuckahoe Tigers | Burke Catholic Eagles |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 233.0 | 238.4 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 45.0 | 98.1 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 278.0 | 336.6 |
| Points Per Game | 23.3 | 36.9 |
| Tackles Per Game | 73.1 | 41.2 |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.6 | 2.2 |
Burke Catholic holds the advantage in offensive production, particularly in the passing game, where they nearly double Tuckahoe’s output. Both teams are effective on the ground, but Burke Catholic’s balanced attack gives them the edge.
Record Breakdown
| Category | Tuckahoe Tigers | Burke Catholic Eagles |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 6-3 | 8-1 |
| Home Record | 4-0 | 4-0 |
| Away Record | 1-3 | 4-1 |
| Common Opponent Record | 1-0 | 1-0 |
Tuckahoe has been strong at home but has struggled on the road (1-3), which could be a factor if the game is played at a neutral site. Burke Catholic’s only loss came in a close contest, and their record reflects consistency across all environments.
Key Matchups
- Connor Brice vs. Burke Catholic’s Defense
- Brice will need to have a career game to keep Tuckahoe competitive. His ability to create plays as a dual-threat will be critical.
- Burke Catholic’s defense, led by players like Nasir Aymat, will aim to contain Brice and force other players to step up.
- Burke Catholic’s Offense vs. Tuckahoe’s Defense
- The Eagles’ balanced offense will test Tuckahoe’s defensive capabilities. If Tuckahoe cannot slow down Mazzie and Brogan, the game could quickly get out of hand.
- Tuckahoe’s defense, which averages over 73 tackles per game, must capitalize on turnovers and big stops.
Prediction
Burke Catholic’s superior balance and offensive firepower give them the edge in this matchup. While Tuckahoe’s home-field dominance and Connor Brice’s dynamic playmaking make them a dangerous opponent, Burke Catholic’s consistency and depth should propel them to victory.
