The Wardlaw Academy varsity football team (Johnston, SC) will face off against Richard Winn Academy (Winnsboro, SC) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 15. This matchup is part of the 2024 South Carolina High School Football Playoff Brackets: SCISA – 8 Man tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Wardlaw Academy vs Richard Winn Academy
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: TBD
Bracket: 2024 South Carolina High School Football Playoff Brackets: SCISA – 8 Man
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Game preview: Wardlaw Academy vs Richard Winn Academy

As the high school football season heats up, Richard Winn Academy (RWA) and Wardlaw Academy are preparing for a crucial matchup in the playoffs, scheduled for Friday, November 15. This will be their third meeting this season, following an exciting head-to-head battle on September 20, 2024, in which Richard Winn Academy won 30-16. Both teams are well-established in their league, but the upcoming neutral-site game could ultimately determine who advances further in the state playoffs.

Team Records and Performance

Richard Winn Academy has had an impressive 2024 season, maintaining an undefeated record at 10-0, including a perfect 6-0 in region play. Their dominance on both sides of the ball is evident, with a staggering 533 points scored versus just 160 allowed. The team’s offense has been potent, averaging 53.3 points per game, a strong testament to their well-rounded offensive game, with 183.9 rushing yards per game, 120.4 passing yards, and 123.7 receiving yards.

In contrast, Wardlaw Academy has a solid 8-2 record, with a 3-1 performance in region play. Although not as dominant as Richard Winn, they are still a formidable force, averaging 37.2 points per game. Their offense revolves around star player Colt Bailey, who has been impressive with 240.4 rushing yards per game and a solid total yards per game average of 342.4. Defensively, however, they give up an average of 278 points, which could be a potential vulnerability against an explosive team like Richard Winn.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

In their two meetings this season, Richard Winn Academy has decisively come out on top. On September 20, they defeated Wardlaw 30-16, dominating the second half after a slow start. The first quarter saw RWA leading 8-0, and after a scoreless second quarter, they took control with 8 points in the third and 14 in the fourth to secure the win.

In their most recent matchup on November 1, 2024, Richard Winn Academy won in commanding fashion with a 60-14 victory over Wardlaw Academy. This game showcased the full strength of Richard Winn’s offense, which racked up yards and scored consistently throughout the game.

Key Players to Watch

Richard Winn Academy:

• Charlie Bonds: A true standout for RWA, Bonds has been a force both in the rushing game (99.4 yards per game) and passing game (168.6 yards per game). He also contributes significantly in receiving and total yards, with 268 yards per game.
• Jake Gaillard: Leading the receiving corps, Gaillard averages 52.8 yards per game, providing a reliable option for Bonds.
• JT Wilkes: On defense, Wilkes has been active, averaging 8.7 tackles per game, a key contributor in the team’s defensive success.

Wardlaw Academy:

• Colt Bailey: As Wardlaw’s primary offensive weapon, Bailey has rushed for an impressive 207.7 yards per game and is a key part of their offensive game plan. His performance could be pivotal for Wardlaw to challenge Richard Winn.
• Jackson Smoak: A defensive standout for Wardlaw, Smoak averages 12 tackles per game and will likely be tasked with stopping RWA’s high-powered offense.

Team Stats Comparison

When comparing the teams’ offensive and defensive stats, Richard Winn Academy has a clear edge in several categories, especially in points scored per game and total yards. However, Wardlaw Academy leads in rushing yards per game, boasting 240.4 compared to RWA’s 183.9. Defensively, Richard Winn has been far more effective at limiting points, allowing just 160 compared to Wardlaw’s 278.

Common Opponents

Both teams have played against some common opponents this season. Richard Winn Academy boasts an 8-0 record against these teams, while Wardlaw Academy holds a 7-0 record. Notable victories for Richard Winn include a 64-18 win over Oakbrook Prep and a 51-16 triumph over Newberry Academy. Wardlaw Academy has been similarly dominant, with strong wins against teams like Oakbrook Prep (58-34) and Newberry Academy (54-20).

Looking Ahead

As the two teams meet again in the playoffs, Richard Winn Academy’s perfect record and potent offense make them the favorite. However, Wardlaw Academy has shown the ability to compete, especially with their high-scoring rushing attack. It will be fascinating to see how the matchup unfolds, with both teams likely to give it their all in pursuit of a state championship.

Ultimately, Richard Winn Academy’s superior scoring ability, balanced offense, and staunch defense position them as the team to beat, but with a postseason game in the balance, Wardlaw Academy cannot be counted out just yet. The November 15 game promises to be an exciting playoff showdown between two of the top teams in South Carolina.