The DeSoto (TX) varsity football team is facing Willis (TX) in a neutral playoff game today at 7 p.m. at The Star in Frisco, TX. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships for the 6A Division 2 tournament.

Willis vs DeSoto Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Willis vs DeSoto
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 6A D2
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Willis vs DeSoto

As the 2024-25 high school football season nears its final stretch, two Texas teams have made waves with their exceptional performances. The Willis Wildkats and the DeSoto Eagles have dominated their respective divisions, earning top rankings and setting high expectations for the postseason. As they head into the final games, both teams stand out in terms of offensive power, defensive strength, and overall success.

Willis: A Perfect Season So Far

The Willis Wildkats have been nothing short of dominant in the 2024-25 season, boasting an undefeated 12-0 record. With a perfect 8-0 district record, they have proved themselves as the team to beat in Texas high school football. Their offense has been nothing short of explosive, averaging 54.3 points per game. They’ve managed to put up impressive numbers across the board, with 175.8 rushing yards per game and 322.5 passing yards per game. Their ability to balance both facets of the game has allowed them to outpace most teams, scoring an average of 17.5 points in the first quarter alone.

Led by standout players like Terri Lawrence, who averages 65.1 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Jack Emerson, who has thrown for 304.1 yards per game, Willis has maintained a powerful offensive rhythm all season. On defense, linebacker Logan Henager leads the team with 6.4 tackles per game, and the Wildkats have been strong in limiting their opponents’ scoring opportunities, giving up only 215 points in 12 games.

DeSoto: A Strong Contender

Not far behind, the DeSoto Eagles have posted a 10-2 record, with a 6-1 mark in district play. Though they have dropped two games, their overall performance has been formidable, averaging 47.3 points per game and accumulating 526.8 total yards per game. Their offensive success is driven by the potent rushing attack of Deondrae Riden Jr., who leads the team with 135.5 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Kelden Ryan, who averages 187.9 passing yards per game. With an offense that can strike quickly and efficiently, DeSoto’s 31-point first-half average has made them a serious contender.

Defensively, the Eagles have been a force as well. Keylan Abrams leads the team with 6.8 tackles per game, and their defense has averaged 57.4 tackles per game, giving them an edge in neutralizing opponents. Their ability to shut down the run, holding teams to just 311.7 rushing yards per game, has been crucial in their victories.

Key Team Comparisons

While both teams excel in different areas, the stat breakdown gives us a clearer picture of their strengths. Willis has a more balanced approach, excelling both on the ground and through the air, while DeSoto relies more heavily on its rushing game. With 175.8 rushing yards per game, Willis is outpaced by DeSoto’s 311.7 yards, but they make up for it with a strong passing game (322.5 yards per game for Willis vs. 215.1 for DeSoto).

When it comes to defense, both teams are effective in stopping the run, with Willis allowing just 215 points on the season, compared to DeSoto’s 242. However, Willis has a slight edge in overall efficiency, maintaining a perfect record both at home and on the road. DeSoto’s 5-2 road record could present a challenge if the Eagles find themselves away from home in the playoffs.

Playoff Potential

Both teams are primed for a deep playoff run, with Willis having a clear advantage in terms of their undefeated record. DeSoto, however, will likely prove to be a formidable adversary, especially given their 2-0 playoff record so far. Both teams have shown resilience and the ability to perform in high-pressure situations, making this matchup one to watch closely.

Head-to-Head Comparison:

• Willis: 12-0 overall, 8-0 district, 6-0 home, 5-0 away, 1-0 neutral
• DeSoto: 10-2 overall, 6-1 district, 5-2 home, 3-0 away, 2-0 neutral

Both teams have a strong playoff pedigree and are poised to make a statement in the postseason. With the way both have been playing this season, it’s clear that the battle for Texas supremacy will be as intense as ever.

Conclusion

The stage is set for a thrilling playoff series as Willis and DeSoto continue their quest for state glory. With Willis holding onto a perfect season and DeSoto ready to challenge any opponent in their path, these two teams are among the best in Texas high school football. Whether it’s the Wildkats’ balanced attack or the Eagles’ high-powered offense, one thing is certain: the 2024-25 season will end with a memorable chapter for Texas high school football fans.