The Vela High School varsity football team (Edinburg, TX) will host a home playoff game against Smithson Valley High School (Spring Branch, TX) on Friday, November 22 at 7:00 PM at Richard Flores Stadium in Edinburg, Texas. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A Division 1 tournament.

Vela vs Smithson Valley Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: Vela vs Smithson Valley
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 5A D1
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Game preview: Vela vs Smithson Valley

As the high school football season progresses, two teams in Texas have demonstrated outstanding performances on the field: Smithson Valley and Vela. Both teams have shown exceptional records, but each approaches the game in different ways, leading to their success. Let’s break down how these teams have been performing this year.

Smithson Valley: A Solid Campaign

Smithson Valley has had a strong season, boasting a 9-2 overall record and a 6-1 district record. With a win percentage of .818 and a district win rate of .857, the team has been impressive in both home and away games. They have outscored their opponents by a significant margin, tallying 471 points while allowing only 113 points over the course of the season.

Key Stats and Team Strengths:

• Scoring: The team averages 42.8 points per game, with their strongest quarters being the second (11.6 points) and third (9.2 points).
• Offensive Balance: With 184.2 rushing yards per game and 263.5 passing yards per game, Smithson Valley has been a well-rounded offensive threat.
• Key Players:
  • Jonathan Flores leads the team with 156.7 rushing yards per game and 12 points per game.
  • Quarterback Geoffrey Creighton LeFevre has been pivotal, throwing for an average of 253.5 yards per game.
  • Wide receiver Juan Garza has been a go-to option, averaging 77.3 receiving yards per game.
  • Orlando Cano has been a defensive standout, recording 4.2 tackles per game.
  • Mario Cavazos Jr. has been instrumental on defense, securing 0.3 sacks per game.

Vela: The Undefeated Titans

In contrast, Vela has been nothing short of dominant this season, remaining undefeated with an 11-0 overall record. Their perfect record includes a 7-0 mark in district play, making them a force to be reckoned with. Their incredible win percentage of 1.000 reflects their consistency across all matchups.

Key Stats and Team Strengths:

• Scoring: Vela averages 41.8 points per game, with their strongest scoring period coming in the first quarter (16.7 points).
• Offensive Prowess: With 460 total points scored and 150 points allowed, Vela’s offense has been clicking. They have been especially effective in the passing game, averaging 258.4 receiving yards per game, and 263.5 total passing yards per game.
• Key Players:
  • Jonathan Flores leads Vela’s rushing attack with 156.7 yards per game, while also contributing 12 points per game.
  • Geoffrey Creighton LeFevre’s total offensive output averages 258.8 yards per game.
  • Mario Cavazos Jr. also shines on defense, with 0.3 sacks per game.

Key Comparisons: A Clash of Styles

When comparing Smithson Valley and Vela, it’s evident that while both teams are offensive powerhouses, they differ in approach and performance. Smithson Valley boasts a solid rushing game, with Jonathan Flores leading the way. Meanwhile, Vela has been stronger in the passing game, with a total of 263.5 passing yards per game.

Despite these differences, both teams have shown dominance in their respective districts and beyond. Smithson Valley’s balanced attack is complemented by a tough defense, while Vela’s offensive versatility and undefeated record speak volumes about their prowess.

In terms of individual standout performances, Jonathan Flores shines as a top contributor for both teams. His dual threat in both rushing and scoring has made him a key player for Smithson Valley. Meanwhile, Vela’s impressive offensive and defensive units, coupled with an undefeated streak, make them a formidable opponent for any challenger.

Conclusion

As the season continues to unfold, both Smithson Valley and Vela are proving their worth in Texas high school football. With strong records and well-rounded teams, they are poised for potential playoff runs. Whether it’s Smithson Valley’s balanced attack or Vela’s undefeated dominance, both teams will undoubtedly be exciting to watch as the season heads into its final stretch. The matchups ahead promise high stakes and plenty of football action.