The Union High School varsity football team from Big Stone Gap, VA will face off against Ridgeview High School from Clintwood, VA in a neutral playoff game today at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Union vs Ridgeview
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 2 “
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Ridgeview vs. Union: A Football Rivalry Heating Up

The stage is set for a thrilling rematch between two top contenders in Virginia’s high school football scene—Ridgeview and Union. Both teams have delivered impressive seasons in 2024, setting the stage for what promises to be a hard-fought playoff clash. Let’s break down the key statistics and factors that define this rivalry.

Team Overview: Ridgeview vs. Union

Ridgeview (9-2 overall, 4-2 region, 5-1 at home) comes into this playoff matchup with a strong record. They’ve been dominant at home and had solid success away, finishing with an impressive 81.8% win rate. Their offense has been potent, averaging nearly 40 points per game (39.9), with the bulk of their scoring coming in the first and third quarters (10.8 and 9.6 points, respectively). Ridgeview’s defense has been even more impressive, allowing just 87 points over the entire season—an average of under 8 points per game.

On the other hand, Union (8-3 overall, 5-1 region, 4-2 at home) also boasts a strong campaign, finishing with a slightly lower win percentage of 72.7%. Union has been especially dominant within their region, with a stellar 83.3% win rate in league play. Their scoring has been steady, with an average of 32.9 points per game, and they have shown balanced production, particularly in the second quarter (11.6 points). However, their defense has allowed 113 points, a significantly higher total than Ridgeview’s defense.

Head-to-Head History

The most recent matchup between these two teams took place on October 11, 2024, with Union emerging victorious 31-7. Union dominated throughout the game, particularly in the second and fourth quarters, outscoring Ridgeview 24-0 in those periods. Ridgeview’s only score came in the third quarter, but it was not enough to mount a comeback.

Common Opponents

Both teams share a number of common opponents, and their records against these teams show just how evenly matched they are. Ridgeview has gone 5-1 against common opponents, while Union has a slightly stronger 6-1 record. Both teams have dominated schools like Central Wise, Lee, and Richlands, with wins by large margins. However, when it comes to more evenly matched teams like Abingdon, the results have been mixed: Ridgeview suffered a close loss to Abingdon 10-7, while Union also lost to them earlier in the season 28-21.

The key takeaway from these common opponents is that both teams have shown the ability to handle weaker opponents with ease but have struggled when facing tougher competition. This pattern may play a significant role in the upcoming matchup.

Scoring Averages and Game Breakdown

Ridgeview’s scoring efficiency is evident in their ability to score consistently across all four quarters, particularly in the first and third. They’ve shown resilience, even in their losses. Union, while not as consistent across the board, has proven to be dangerous in the second quarter, where they score over 11 points per game.

• Ridgeview’s Key Scoring Periods:
  • 1st Quarter: 10.8 points
  • 3rd Quarter: 9.6 points
• Union’s Key Scoring Periods:
  • 2nd Quarter: 11.6 points

In the game’s final moments, Ridgeview has averaged 7.8 points in the fourth quarter, while Union has averaged just 5.3, showing Ridgeview’s potential to close out games stronger when needed.

Record Breakdown and Playoff Implications

Both teams enter this game with strong playoff aspirations, but Ridgeview’s slightly better overall record and dominant home field advantage could give them the edge. They’ve shown the ability to perform in big moments, particularly in neutral-site games and playoff settings, where both teams are undefeated (1-0).

Union, however, has the mental advantage of their recent head-to-head victory and will aim to replicate their success. With both teams boasting near-identical records and similar strengths, it’s clear that every play counts in this high-stakes matchup.

Conclusion

As Ridgeview and Union square off once again, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With both teams bringing high-powered offenses and strong defenses, this playoff game promises to be a thrilling contest. Ridgeview’s resilience and offensive depth will meet Union’s balanced attack and recent head-to-head success. Ultimately, it will come down to which team can execute in the critical moments and adjust to their opponent’s strengths.

Whether it’s Ridgeview seeking revenge or Union looking to prove their dominance, this game is one that no high school football fan should miss.