The Varina High School varsity football team will host Huguenot in a home playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Football
Who: Varina vs Huguenot
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 4 “
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Football Showdown: Huguenot vs. Varina – A Clash of Unbeaten Forces
As the 2024-2025 football season reaches its climax, the spotlight shines brightly on two powerhouse teams from Virginia: Huguenot and Varina. Both teams have made their mark with impressive records, unyielding defense, and high-powered offenses. This showdown between the 11-0 Huguenot Falcons and the 9-1 Varina Blue Devils is one that has fans buzzing with excitement.
Team Performance Overview:
Huguenot (11-0)
Huguenot has been nothing short of dominant this season. With a perfect record both in the regular season (9-0 in the region) and at home (7-0), the Falcons have been a force to be reckoned with. Their balanced offensive attack, highlighted by the passing game, has set the tone for their success. On average, Huguenot racks up 432.6 total yards per game, with standout performances from Linwood Johnson, who has thrown for 192.6 passing yards per game, and Michael Dabney Jr., who has averaged 101.7 receiving yards per game. The defense is just as impressive, averaging 51.6 tackles per game and 4.7 sacks per game.
Huguenot’s offensive and defensive units operate with military precision. Their team scoring is equally remarkable, posting an average of 49.5 points per game, with each quarter showing consistent production. Their ability to dominate every aspect of the game has led to an overall average of 545 points scored and only 131 points allowed.
Varina (9-1)
Varina, while not undefeated like Huguenot, is still an incredibly formidable team. With a 6-0 region record and a strong home record (4-1), the Blue Devils have proven that they can compete with anyone. Their offense has been productive, though not as explosive as Huguenot’s, averaging 346 total yards per game, led by Linwood Johnson’s 222.9 total yards per game. However, their defense has been solid, allowing only 127 points over the course of the season, with standout players like Jamar Leeper, who has recorded 1.1 sacks per game.
In terms of scoring, Varina averages 34.6 points per game, but their performances have varied throughout the season, with noticeable drops in scoring during the third and fourth quarters. Despite this, their strong start in games—especially in the first half—has kept them in contention for a deep playoff run.
Key Statistical Comparison:
| Stat | Huguenot | Varina |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 176.3 | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 256.4 | – |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 256.4 | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | 432.6 | – |
| Tackles Per Game | 51.6 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 4.7 | – |
| Points Per Game | 49.5 | 34.6 |
The key distinction between the two teams lies in their overall offensive and defensive stats. Huguenot’s passing game is the cornerstone of their success, with their passing attack leading the charge in total yards, while Varina has relied more on their defense and overall balance. With an average of 432.6 yards per game, Huguenot has outpaced Varina significantly in total offense, even as Varina boasts a more modest offensive output.
Team Leaders:
- Huguenot’s Star Players:
- John Washington has been exceptional, averaging 108.5 rushing yards per game.
- Linwood Johnson has been a dual-threat quarterback with a remarkable 192.6 passing yards per game.
- Michael Dabney Jr. has emerged as a standout receiver, tallying 101.7 receiving yards per game.
- Defensively, Romelo Perry leads the charge with 10.1 tackles per game, and Jamar Leeper shines with 1.1 sacks per game.
- Varina’s Key Contributors:
- Linwood Johnson also leads Varina’s offensive effort with an average of 222.9 total yards per game.
- The defensive effort has been spearheaded by Jamar Leeper with 1.1 sacks per game.
Head-to-Head Breakdown:
Looking at the head-to-head breakdown, Huguenot comes out on top in terms of overall performance, with an unblemished 11-0 record compared to Varina’s 9-1. However, Varina has shown resilience, particularly in their 4-1 away record and a strong performance in neutral-site games. The teams have yet to face each other this season, which makes the upcoming game even more tantalizing.
Final Thoughts:
Both Huguenot and Varina have been stellar throughout the 2024-2025 season. While Huguenot has proven to be the more dominant team with its flawless record and high-scoring offense, Varina has shown that it can rise to the occasion with its formidable defense and balanced attack. This matchup is expected to be a thrilling contest, and whichever team can maintain their focus throughout the game will likely come out on top. Huguenot’s high-powered offense versus Varina’s stout defense will be a clash of styles, and the outcome promises to be one for the ages.
