The DeSoto varsity football team from West Helena, AR, will face off against Tunica Academy from Tunica, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game today at 7 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 MAIS High School Football Playoff Bracket – 8-Man 2A” tournament.
Tunica Academy vs DeSoto High School Football Game Info:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Tunica Academy vs DeSoto
When: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 7:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 MAIS High School Football Playoff Bracket – 8 Man 2A
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Tunica Academy vs DeSoto
In what promises to be a thrilling playoff matchup, the Tunica Academy Blue Devils will face the DeSoto Thunderbirds tonight at 7 PM on neutral turf. The stakes are high as these two powerhouse teams battle for supremacy, bringing impressive records, contrasting styles, and a fierce rivalry to the gridiron.
Team Overviews and Season Highlights
Tunica Academy (10-2, 2-2 District)
The Blue Devils have had an impressive season, boasting a .833 win percentage and averaging 39.2 points per game. Their offense is explosive early on, averaging 20 points in the first quarter and 22 in the second. However, they’ve struggled to maintain momentum in the second half, a trend they’ll need to reverse to overcome DeSoto.
Key victories include dominant performances against North Sunflower Academy (46-0) and Calhoun Academy (56-14). However, a narrow 44-42 loss to Humphreys Academy highlighted vulnerabilities on defense. Redemption came in the playoffs when Tunica edged Humphreys 26-24 to secure tonight’s rematch against DeSoto.
DeSoto (11-0, 4-0 Conference)
The Thunderbirds have been a force to be reckoned with this season, finishing undefeated and ranking #1 in Arkansas Class rankings. They boast an incredible scoring average of 50.9 points per game while holding opponents to a mere 128 points all season. DeSoto’s balanced attack peaks in the first half but shows consistency throughout all four quarters.
Signature wins include a commanding 58-0 rout over North Sunflower Academy and a 62-8 blowout against Delta Academy. Their defense has been a wall, and their offensive efficiency was on full display during their 44-14 victory over Tunica Academy earlier this season.
Head-to-Head: DeSoto Dominates Round One
The last meeting between these two teams took place on October 18, with DeSoto overwhelming Tunica Academy 44-14 in a road conference game. DeSoto’s relentless offense and stifling defense left little room for the Blue Devils to mount a challenge. Tonight’s game provides Tunica with an opportunity to rewrite the narrative and avenge that loss.
Common Opponents Comparison
Both teams have faced a similar slate of opponents, with DeSoto posting a perfect 6-0 record while Tunica Academy went 6-1. The biggest contrast lies in the margins of victory, as DeSoto consistently delivered larger point differentials, demonstrating their dominance across the board. For example:
- Against North Sunflower Academy:
- Tunica: 46-0
- DeSoto: 58-0
- Against Humphreys Academy:
- Tunica: Loss 42-44, Win 26-24
- DeSoto: Win 42-28
Keys to the Game
For Tunica Academy:
- Second-Half Adjustments: The Blue Devils need to maintain their first-half momentum throughout the game.
- Defense Needs to Step Up: DeSoto’s offense is potent and unforgiving. Tunica must limit big plays.
- Capitalize on Opportunities: Turnovers or key stops can shift momentum, but Tunica must convert them into points.
For DeSoto:
- Keep Up the Pressure: DeSoto’s ability to maintain consistency across all quarters gives them an edge.
- Exploit Tunica’s Weaknesses: Tunica has shown vulnerabilities on defense, particularly late in games.
- Dominate Early: Jumping out to an early lead could demoralize Tunica and allow DeSoto to control the pace.
Prediction
DeSoto enters as the clear favorite with an undefeated record, a decisive win over Tunica earlier this season, and a strong track record against common opponents. However, playoff football is unpredictable, and Tunica Academy has shown resilience, especially in close games. If Tunica can tighten up defensively and deliver a complete four-quarter performance, they have a chance to pull off an upset.
Final Score Prediction: DeSoto 42, Tunica Academy 24
Will the Thunderbirds soar to another victory, or will the Blue Devils rise to the occasion and upset the favorites? The answer comes tonight under the Friday night lights.
