The Uxbridge (MA) varsity football team will face Northbridge (Whitinsville, MA) in a neutral playoff game on Saturday, November 23 at 1 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 MIAA Football State Championship – Division 7 tournament.

What: Massachusetts High School Football
Who: Uxbridge (MA) vs Northbridge (MA)
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Where: Milford High School
Bracket: 2024 MIAA Football State Championship – Division 7
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Northbridge vs. Uxbridge: A Showdown of Perfect Records and High Scoring Teams

As the high school football season heats up, one matchup that promises fireworks is between the undefeated Uxbridge Spartans and the Northbridge Rams, two teams with impressive records and strong performances throughout the season. The neutral playoff game on Saturday, November 23, at 1:00 PM will be a clash of styles, with Northbridge boasting a powerful offensive attack and Uxbridge showing off an unblemished season.

Team Records and Key Stats

Northbridge comes into this game with an 8-2 record, with a 1-2 league record. Their overall points-for total stands at 287 while their defense has allowed 118 points. Their offense averages 28.7 points per game, with their scoring spread out across all quarters: 9.0 points in Q1, 8.4 in Q2, 4.2 in Q3, and 6.4 in Q4. Their rushing game, led by Joel Lachapelle, averages 8.0 rushing yards per game, and their passing game nets 47.7 passing yards per game.

In contrast, Uxbridge has been a juggernaut this season, finishing with a perfect 10-0 record, including a flawless 6-0 league record. Their offense has been a force, with an impressive 413 total points scored, and they allow just 140 points on defense. Uxbridge’s offense averages 41.3 points per game, with a strong first-half showing, especially in the first quarter where they average 12.9 points. Their rushing game is particularly potent, averaging 232.4 rushing yards per game, and their passing game adds 105.8 passing yards per game.

Scoring Comparisons

The team scoring averages reflect a stark contrast in styles. Northbridge tends to score in bursts, with their best offensive quarter being the first (9.0 points), while Uxbridge consistently delivers a strong showing, especially in the first two quarters. Uxbridge is notably more balanced, maintaining high scores in all quarters, while Northbridge struggles in the third quarter, only scoring 4.2 points on average during that time.

Uxbridge’s ability to produce points consistently in the first half gives them a clear edge, especially when compared to Northbridge’s scoring, which drops off in the third quarter. However, Northbridge’s resilience and ability to finish strong in the fourth quarter will be critical in this matchup.

Key Players to Watch

For Northbridge, the star player is Joel Lachapelle. He leads the team in rushing yards with 34.0 rushing yards per game, as well as passing yards with 238.5. His performance will be key to Northbridge’s offensive strategy. David Scichilone, with 85 receiving yards per game, is another standout who will need to provide an aerial threat to balance the rushing attack.

For Uxbridge, Camden Lachapelle has been a standout performer, rushing for an average of 176.7 yards per game and leading the team in total yards, with 187.8 total yards per game. Liam Kaferlein is also crucial in the receiving game, contributing 61 receiving yards per game. Uxbridge will rely on their high-powered offense to sustain their perfect record and continue their dominance on the ground.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced some similar opponents this season, with Uxbridge holding a perfect 5-0 record against common opponents, while Northbridge finished 4-2. Notable results include Uxbridge’s dominant 55-12 victory over Leicester, while Northbridge also posted a solid 35-0 win against Leicester. Other common opponents include Millbury, Oxford, and Blackstone Valley RVT, where both teams posted victories in several matchups.

Record Breakdown

• Northbridge (8-2 overall, 1-2 league)
• Uxbridge (10-0 overall, 6-0 league)

Both teams are strong contenders, but Uxbridge’s perfect season and superior league performance make them the favorite heading into the game. However, Northbridge’s solid playoff experience and ability to perform under pressure should make for an exciting contest.

Looking Ahead

This neutral playoff game on November 23 promises to be an exciting encounter. Northbridge’s offensive balance will be tested against Uxbridge’s powerful rushing attack. Both teams have the ability to put up big points, but the key to victory may lie in the defense and which team can make key stops when it matters most.

No matter the outcome, the showdown between these two talented teams will be one to remember in the Massachusetts high school football playoff scene.