The South Panola varsity football team from Batesville, MS, will compete against Warren Central from Vicksburg, 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: Warren Central vs South Panola
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 6A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Warren Central vs. South Panola
In an exciting playoff matchup, the Warren Central Vikings (8-3) will face off against the South Panola Tigers (9-2). Both teams have had strong seasons, with Warren Central finishing undefeated in district play, and South Panola coming off a successful campaign with just two losses. The game promises to be a clash of styles, with both teams bringing potent offenses and competitive defenses.
Season Recap: Warren Central Vikings
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 339 PF, 144 PA
- Scoring Average: 30.8 points per game
Warren Central has had a solid season, with their offense averaging just under 31 points per game. Their defense has been impressive, allowing just 13.1 points per game. The Vikings have been especially dominant in district play, finishing undefeated. Warren Central’s well-balanced attack, with a strong rushing and passing game, has been key to their success.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Quarterback Nash Morgan has been excellent, leading the team with 107.8 passing yards per game, while Eric Collins Jr. provides a consistent ground game with 89.8 rushing yards per game.
- Defense: Ronnie Blossom has been a standout on defense, averaging 8.7 tackles per game.
Season Recap: South Panola Tigers
- Record: 9-2
- District Record: 4-1
- Points For/Against: 355 PF, 193 PA
- Scoring Average: 32.3 points per game
South Panola has been a high-scoring team, averaging over 32 points per game. Their offense, led by Tristan “Boss” Colenberg (170.5 total yards per game), has been difficult to stop. The Tigers’ defense, though allowing more points than Warren Central’s, has had key players like Calib Lyle (5.6 tackles per game) and Trevor Willingham who create pressure. South Panola finished second in their district, with a strong overall record.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Anderrious Flowers has been a workhorse for South Panola, rushing for 81.5 yards per game and contributing heavily to the ground game.
- Defense: Calib Lyle and Trevor Willingham are key players on defense, with Lyle making stops all over the field and Willingham adding pressure in the pass rush.
Head-to-Head:
Warren Central and South Panola have not faced each other this season, but both teams share several common opponents. The Vikings have played well against teams like Clinton and Saltillo, while South Panola has also won key matchups against Clinton and Ridgeland. The teams will need to rely on their strengths in this head-to-head battle.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Warren Central | South Panola |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 205.3 | 250.1 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 111.4 | 95.4 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 111.4 | 95.4 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 316.7 | 345.5 |
| Points Per Game | 30.8 | 32.3 |
| Tackles Per Game | 69.6 | 45.7 |
| Sacks Per Game | 3.3 | 2.3 |
Key Players to Watch
- Warren Central:
- Nash Morgan (Total yards per game): Morgan’s ability to balance passing and running will be crucial for the Vikings.
- Eric Collins Jr. (Rushing yards per game): Collins provides a dynamic running threat and can break through defenses.
- Ronnie Blossom (Tackles per game): Blossom will need to lead the defense and stop South Panola’s potent offense.
- South Panola:
- Tristan “Boss” Colenberg (Total yards per game): Colenberg is the key playmaker on offense, and he will need to make plays through the air and on the ground.
- Anderrious Flowers (Rushing yards per game): Flowers has been a consistent and powerful back and will be essential in controlling the clock.
- Calib Lyle (Tackles per game): Lyle is one of the leaders on defense and will need to disrupt Warren Central’s offensive rhythm.
Keys to Victory
For Warren Central:
- Balance the Offense: Warren Central needs to keep South Panola guessing with a balanced attack, combining effective rushing and passing.
- Strong Defensive Play: The Vikings’ defense, especially Ronnie Blossom, will need to contain South Panola’s offensive playmakers, including Anderrious Flowers and Tristan Colenberg.
- Control the Game Pace: Warren Central’s rushing game should help control the clock and limit South Panola’s offensive opportunities.
For South Panola:
- Explosive Plays: South Panola must take advantage of their explosive offense, especially Tristan Colenberg, to create big plays and put pressure on Warren Central’s defense.
- Limit Turnovers: South Panola cannot afford to give Warren Central extra possessions. Protecting the ball will be key.
- Defensive Stops: With Warren Central’s balanced offense, South Panola’s defense, led by Calib Lyle, will need to make key stops and force Warren Central into tough third downs.
Prediction:
This game is expected to be a close contest, with both teams bringing strong offenses and solid defenses. Warren Central’s balance and defensive strength give them an edge, but South Panola’s explosive playmakers could make the difference if they get on a roll.
