The Truckee (CA) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Virgin Valley (Mesquite, NV) today at 1 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 NIAA Football Playoffs – 3A State tournament.

Virgin Valley vs Truckee Football Game Info:

What: Nevada High School Football Playoffs
Who: Virgin Valley vs Truckee
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m.
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Game preview: Virgin Valley vs Truckee

In what promises to be an exciting clash, Virgin Valley (9-3) from Nevada is set to face off against Truckee (11-0) from California in a highly anticipated football game. Both teams have made impressive strides this season, with Truckee maintaining a perfect record, while Virgin Valley looks to challenge the undefeated Truckee squad. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from this thrilling matchup.

Virgin Valley Football Overview

Virgin Valley enters the game with an overall record of 9-3, including a league record of 4-2. Their balanced approach on offense and defense has led them to a strong season. They average 27 points per game and have scored a total of 324 points across the season. The team has been solid both at home (5-1) and on the road (4-2). Virgin Valley has had success on the ground, averaging 199 rushing yards per game, led by star running back Drew Dixon, who averages 114.1 rushing yards per game. In the air, Koby Perry is their leading passer, throwing for 131.8 passing yards per game. Despite strong individual performances, the team’s offense tends to struggle in the second half, averaging only 3.1 points per game in the third quarter.

On the defensive side, Dallin Moeai has been a standout with 6.4 tackles per game, but overall, the team averages 53.5 tackles per game. Their defense has allowed an average of 144 points over the course of the season. With an average of 2.2 sacks per game, they’ll need to pressure Truckee’s offense to create turnovers and limit scoring opportunities.

Truckee Football Overview

Truckee, on the other hand, has had an impressive perfect season with an 11-0 record. Their dominance in the league (7-0) and non-league (5-0) play reflects a well-rounded team capable of performing on all fronts. With a stunning average of 39.6 points per game, Truckee has consistently outscored opponents, racking up a total of 436 points. The team has been outstanding in the rushing game, averaging 279.6 rushing yards per game, with standout player Joseph Birnbaum accounting for 72.8 yards per game. While their passing game is less dominant, Jace Estabrook has been efficient, passing for 92.6 yards per game.

Defensively, Truckee has been impressive as well, averaging 68 tackles per game and 2.2 sacks per game. Rylan Lauter leads the defense with 10.8 tackles per game and 0.9 sacks per game. With a defensive unit that has given up just 71 points throughout the season, Truckee has shown they know how to limit their opponents’ offensive production.

Team Comparisons

In terms of total yards per game, Truckee has the advantage with 383.6 yards compared to Virgin Valley’s 326.5 yards. However, Virgin Valley’s strong running game could test Truckee’s defense, especially with Drew Dixon leading the charge. While Virgin Valley averages 199 rushing yards per game, Truckee’s ground attack is even more potent, with 279.6 rushing yards per game.

When it comes to scoring, Truckee has been a force to be reckoned with. Their 13.4 points per game in the first quarter and 14.8 points in the second quarter put them in the driver’s seat early in games. In contrast, Virgin Valley tends to start strong, but struggles in the third quarter, averaging just 3.1 points during that period. The ability for Virgin Valley to maintain their momentum throughout all four quarters will be key to keeping pace with Truckee’s high-scoring offense.

Key Players to Watch

• Virgin Valley:
  • Drew Dixon (RB): Averaging 114.1 yards per game, Dixon is a key player who can create big plays on the ground.
  • Koby Perry (QB): With 131.8 passing yards per game, Perry will need to be sharp in the air to keep Truckee’s defense guessing.
  • Dallin Moeai (LB): Leading the defense with 6.4 tackles per game, Moeai will be crucial in stopping Truckee’s ground attack.
• Truckee:
  • Joseph Birnbaum (RB): A dominant rusher with 72.8 yards per game, Birnbaum has been key to Truckee’s offensive success.
  • Jace Estabrook (QB): While not known for a high-volume passing game, Estabrook has been efficient when called upon.
  • Rylan Lauter (LB): With 10.8 tackles per game, Lauter will be critical in defending against Virgin Valley’s offense.

Game Prediction

Truckee enters the game with a perfect record, and their high-powered offense paired with a stifling defense makes them the favorite. However, Virgin Valley’s ability to control the clock with a strong rushing attack and their experienced playmakers could keep the game close. Truckee’s early scoring and defensive dominance may ultimately be too much for Virgin Valley, but expect a competitive game, especially in the early quarters.

Final Thoughts

This matchup promises to showcase two talented teams with contrasting styles. Truckee’s well-rounded offense and perfect season make them a formidable opponent, but Virgin Valley’s strength in the running game and their ability to challenge on defense will certainly keep things interesting. Football fans should be in for a thrilling contest when these two teams hit the field.