The Celina (TX) varsity football team will play a neutral playoff game against Alvarado (TX) today at 7:30 PM. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A Division 1 tournament.

Alvarado vs Celina Football Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football
Who: Alvarado vs Celina
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Alvarado vs Celina

The 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships are set to feature an exciting showdown between two undefeated teams—Alvarado and Celina. Both teams have dominated their respective divisions throughout the season, and with perfect records, they have proven to be among the elite teams in Texas high school football. This matchup promises to deliver an exhilarating game, with both teams bringing impressive offensive and defensive performances to the field.

Alvarado’s Perfect Season

Alvarado, ranked 36th in the state and 15th in their division, enters the championship with a flawless 13-0 record. The team has been a powerhouse both offensively and defensively, with a scoring average of 57.0 points per game. Alvarado has been exceptional in all aspects of the game, from rushing and passing to receiving and total yardage. Their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball has been evident throughout the season.

Offensive Breakdown:

• Rushing: Demarcus Belton has been a standout for Alvarado, with 135.2 rushing yards per game, showcasing his ability to break through defenses and make big plays on the ground.
• Passing: Quarterback Cardea Collier has been a key contributor, averaging 265.4 passing yards per game, a testament to the team’s ability to move the ball through the air.
• Receiving: Lance Sansom leads the receiving corps, with an average of 86.1 receiving yards per game, helping to balance the offense and keep opposing defenses guessing.

On defense, Alvarado’s physicality is evident. Logan Woolard leads the team with 10.8 tackles per game, while D.J. Clampitt contributes significantly with 1.1 sacks per game. These defensive playmakers help set the tone and stifle opposing offenses.

Celina’s Dominant Season

Celina, ranked 9th in the state and 3rd in their division, has also had a perfect run, finishing the season with a 13-0 record. Like Alvarado, Celina’s offense and defense have been firing on all cylinders, with an average of 51.6 points per game. The team’s success can be attributed to a high-powered offense and a tenacious defense that consistently shuts down opponents.

Offensive Breakdown:

• Rushing: While specific rushing statistics are not listed, Celina has consistently shown a strong rushing attack, balancing their offense effectively.
• Passing: Quarterback Cardea Collier also shines for Celina, with a staggering 374.2 total yards per game, contributing both on the ground and through the air.
• Receiving: Celina’s offensive unit is well-rounded, with several playmakers stepping up in key moments throughout the season.

Defensively, Celina has been solid, with standout performances across the board. The team has proven to be able to shut down opposing offenses, such as their dominant victories over Sulphur Springs and Panther Creek.

Common Opponents

Both Alvarado and Celina have faced some of the same opponents during the season, showcasing their ability to perform against top-tier competition. Notably, both teams won their matchups against Kennedale, Panther Creek, and Sulphur Springs, posting impressive victories. This head-to-head comparison underscores the high level of competition each team has faced on their journey to the state championship.

Statistical Comparison

Here’s a look at how Alvarado and Celina compare in key team statistics:

Both teams have put up remarkable statistics, with Alvarado leading in total yards per game and scoring, while Celina has been equally efficient in their own right.

The Championship Showdown

As both teams head into the UIL Texas Football State Championship, all eyes will be on their exceptional talents and strategies. Alvarado’s potent offense, led by Cardea Collier and Demarcus Belton, will face off against Celina’s well-rounded team, which has shown resilience and skill throughout the season. The game promises to be an intense and thrilling contest between two of Texas’ best high school football teams.

With both teams sitting at 13-0, the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championship is sure to be a historic and memorable event for all involved.