The Baldwyn varsity football team from Baldwyn, MS, will face Vardaman, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Vardaman vs Baldwyn
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 1A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Vardaman vs. Baldwyn
The Vardaman Rams (11-0) will take on the Baldwyn Bearcats (11-1) in a highly anticipated playoff game. Both teams are coming off exceptional seasons, with Vardaman entering the game undefeated and Baldwyn boasting only one loss. Both teams have powerful offenses and strong defenses, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Season Recap: Vardaman Rams
- Record: 11-0
- District Record: 3-0
- Points For/Against: 422 PF, 130 PA
- Scoring Average: 38.4 points per game
Vardaman enters the game with an undefeated record, having dominated both their district and non-district opponents. Their offense, led by Brady White, has been highly efficient, while their defense has kept opponents to a minimal number of points. Vardaman will look to continue their perfect season by leveraging their strong rushing and passing attacks.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Brady White has been a dual-threat quarterback, with impressive yardage through the air (97.7 passing yards per game) and on the ground (59.3 rushing yards per game).
- Defense: Vardaman’s defense, led by Grant Parker (7.5 tackles per game), has been formidable, allowing an average of just 11.8 points per game.
Season Recap: Baldwyn Bearcats
- Record: 11-1
- District Record: 3-0
- Points For/Against: 460 PF, 135 PA
- Scoring Average: 38.3 points per game
Baldwyn has been an offensive powerhouse throughout the season, averaging 38.3 points per game. Their defense has also been strong, allowing just 11.3 points per game. With a high-powered offense led by Dy’lan Johnson (109.6 total yards per game), Baldwyn will rely on their explosive attack to challenge Vardaman in this matchup.
Head-to-Head:
Vardaman and Baldwyn have not faced each other this season, but both teams have played strong opponents and are well-prepared for this playoff game. The game will come down to which team can impose their style of play, either Vardaman’s balanced offense or Baldwyn’s explosive attack.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Vardaman | Baldwyn |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 191.7 | 215.4 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 100.5 | 113.9 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 96.0 | 113.9 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 292.2 | 329.3 |
| Points Per Game | 38.4 | 38.3 |
| Tackles Per Game | 53.6 | 59.5 |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.5 | 2.3 |
Keys to Victory
For Vardaman:
- Balance the Offense: Vardaman needs to keep Baldwyn’s defense guessing with both a strong rushing game and effective passing from Brady White.
- Defensive Pressure: The Rams need to apply pressure to Dy’lan Johnson and disrupt Baldwyn’s passing game.
- Control the Game Pace: By establishing the run and controlling the clock, Vardaman can keep Baldwyn’s offense off the field and limit their scoring opportunities.
For Baldwyn:
- Explosive Offense: Baldwyn needs to utilize their playmakers like Dy’lan Johnson and Terrell Robinson to keep the Vardaman defense on their heels.
- Pressure Brady White: The Bearcats’ defense, led by Aidan Stewart, needs to pressure Brady White and make it difficult for him to execute Vardaman’s balanced attack.
- Turnover Margin: To have a shot at victory, Baldwyn must protect the ball and create turnovers to give their offense extra opportunities.
Prediction:
This game is set to be a clash of two powerhouse teams, both of which have strong offenses and solid defenses. Vardaman has the edge with their undefeated record, but Baldwyn’s explosive offense and overall balance make them a tough opponent. Ultimately, Vardaman’s ability to control the game’s tempo and stop Baldwyn’s big plays will be the difference.
