The Westlake varsity football team from Austin, TX, will face off against North Shore from Houston, TX, in a neutral playoff game today at 2 PM at Legacy Stadium. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 6A Division 1” tournament.
North Shore vs Westlake Football Game Info:
What: UIL Football Semifinal 2024
Who: North Shore vs Westlake
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: North Shore vs Westlake
The 2024 UIL Football Semifinal between North Shore and Westlake promises to be a clash of titans, as two of Texas’ most formidable teams square off for a spot in the championship game. Both teams boast stellar records and impressive statistics, making this matchup one of the most anticipated games of the season.
Team Overview
North Shore Mustangs (14-0)
Ranked 3rd in Texas and 6th nationally, North Shore enters the semifinal undefeated with a flawless 14-0 record. They’ve dominated both district and non-league play, posting an impressive total of 623 points scored while holding opponents to just 180. The Mustangs’ offense is a high-powered machine, averaging 44.5 points per game.
Key to North Shore’s success is quarterback Kaleb Bailey, who leads the team with 232 total yards per game and contributes a team-high 15.9 points per game. The Mustangs also dominate on the ground, averaging 213.4 rushing yards per game.
Westlake Chaparrals (13-1)
Westlake comes into the semifinals with a 13-1 record, ranked 11th in Texas and 35th nationally. The Chaparrals have shown remarkable consistency, particularly in district play where they remain undefeated. They’ve scored 613 points while allowing only 175, showcasing a balanced team that excels on both sides of the ball.
Quarterback Rees Wise has been a key contributor, averaging 186.7 total yards per game, with standout receiver Lawson Grimes adding 76.0 receiving yards per game. Westlake’s defense is no slouch either, with linebacker Elliott Schaper leading the team in tackles at 7.7 per game.
Scoring Breakdown
Both teams are offensive powerhouses, but North Shore edges out Westlake in average points per game at 47.6 compared to 38.7. The Mustangs have a penchant for explosive second quarters, averaging 15 points during that period, while Westlake starts strong with an average of 11.8 points in the first quarter.
The Mustangs’ balanced offensive attack results in 432.4 total yards per game, significantly outpacing Westlake’s 372.8. North Shore’s rushing game, led by Bailey, is particularly formidable at 213.4 yards per game, compared to Westlake’s 183.2.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Kaleb Bailey vs. Westlake Defense
Bailey’s dual-threat capability makes him the linchpin of North Shore’s offense. His ability to dominate both through the air (171.5 passing yards/game) and on the ground (60.5 rushing yards/game) will test Westlake’s defensive scheme. - Lawson Grimes vs. North Shore Secondary
Grimes, Westlake’s leading receiver, has averaged 76 yards per game and will need to exploit opportunities against North Shore’s defense to keep the Chaparrals in contention. - Battle in the Trenches
North Shore’s physical rushing attack, backed by their offensive line, will go head-to-head against Westlake’s disciplined defense led by Forrest Breyfogle, who averages 1 sack per game.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced Atascocita during the season, but with very different outcomes. North Shore defeated Atascocita twice, including a commanding 49-21 victory in the playoffs. In contrast, Westlake suffered their only loss of the season to Atascocita in a 39-21 game. This disparity underscores North Shore’s dominance and could be a harbinger of their semifinal performance.
Predictions and Outlook
North Shore’s undefeated record and superior statistical performance make them the favorite heading into this matchup. However, Westlake’s strong defensive capabilities and ability to capitalize on mistakes could make this a closer contest than anticipated.
Ultimately, this game will likely hinge on which team can establish dominance early and sustain it through the second half. With both squads hungry for a championship berth, fans can expect a high-stakes battle under the Friday night lights.
Kickoff: December 15, 2024
Location: Neutral Site
Will North Shore continue their perfect season, or can Westlake pull off the upset? One thing is certain: Texas football fans are in for a treat.
