The Highland Park varsity football team from Dallas, TX, will face the Ryan team from Denton, TX, in a neutral-site playoff game today at 7 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Conference 5A Division 1” tournament.
Ryan Raiders vs Highland Park Football Game Info:
What: UIL Football Semifinal 2024
Who: Ryan Raiders vs Highland Park
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Ryan Raiders vs Highland Park
As the 2024 UIL Football Semifinal approaches, the stage is set for a thrilling matchup between two Texas high school football powerhouses: the Ryan Raiders and the Highland Park Scots. Both teams have had remarkable seasons, with identical 13-1 records, making this contest a must-watch for football enthusiasts.
Team Records and Rankings
The Ryan Raiders come into the semifinal ranked 29th in Texas and 70th nationally. With a district record of 7-1 and an undefeated home record (8-0), the Raiders have proven themselves as formidable contenders. Their overall scoring prowess is reflected in their 649 points scored this season while allowing only 263 points.
Meanwhile, the Highland Park Scots hold a higher state ranking at 7th and are ranked 16th in Texas overall. They boast an unblemished district record (6-0) and a dominant neutral-site performance (3-0). The Scots have scored 521 points this season while giving up just 225, showcasing their balanced offense and defense.
Scoring Averages
The Raiders’ offense has been a juggernaut, averaging an impressive 46.4 points per game. They dominate early, scoring 15.2 points in the first quarter and peaking at 21.6 points in the second. However, their scoring tapers off in the second half.
The Scots average 37.2 points per game, with their strongest scoring quarter being the first (17.0 points). While their second-quarter output drops, they maintain a steady pace in the latter half of the game, showing resilience and endurance.
Statistical Comparison
Ryan’s balanced attack is a key strength:
- Rushing Yards/Game: 209.7
- Passing Yards/Game: 196.3
- Receiving Yards/Game: 199.2
- Total Yards/Game: 406.0
Highland Park’s specific statistics are unavailable, but their overall performance underscores a solid team effort that rivals the Raiders’ explosiveness.
Key Players to Watch
For Ryan:
- Nehemiah Warmate (#6): Averaging 87.6 rushing yards per game and 8.1 points per game, Warmate is a pivotal offensive weapon.
- Quin Henigan (#9): Leading the passing game with 178.6 yards per game, Henigan is the engine of the Raiders’ aerial attack.
- Dillon Arkansas (#21): Anchoring the defense with 8.3 tackles per game.
For Highland Park, although individual stats are not detailed, their cohesive gameplay and ability to perform under pressure will be key factors.
Playoff Journey
Both teams are undefeated in the playoffs, with Ryan holding a 4-0 record and Highland Park matching them stride for stride. Notably, the Scots have an impeccable in-state record (13-0), while Ryan’s sole loss came within their district.
What to Expect
This semifinal clash promises high stakes and intensity. Ryan’s high-powered offense will test Highland Park’s defense, while the Scots’ strategic gameplay could exploit any weaknesses in the Raiders’ lineup. With both teams averaging a win percentage of 92.9%, fans can expect a closely contested battle that could hinge on key moments and individual brilliance.
The 2024 UIL Football Semifinal is set to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and determination, as two elite teams vie for a spot in the championship. Football fans, prepare for an electrifying encounter!
