The Longview (TX) varsity football team will face Southlake Carroll (Southlake, TX) in a neutral playoff game today at 2:00 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – Football Conference 6A Division 2” tournament.
Southlake Carroll vs Longview Football Game Info:
What: UIL Football Semifinal 2024
Who: Southlake Carroll vs Longview
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Southlake Carroll vs Longview
The highly anticipated 2024 UIL Football Semifinal matchup between Southlake Carroll and Longview promises to be an electrifying contest. Both teams have delivered stellar performances throughout the season, setting the stage for a clash between two powerhouse programs with a shared goal: a spot in the state championship.
Team Overview
Southlake Carroll enters the semifinal as a dominant force with an unblemished 14-0 record. Ranked fifth in Texas and 30th nationally, the Dragons have consistently showcased their offensive and defensive prowess, averaging an impressive 51.8 points per game while holding opponents to just 22.2 points per game. Their balanced attack has generated 467.1 total yards per game, with 207.1 rushing yards and 260.0 passing yards on average.
Longview, with a 12-2 record, is no stranger to high-stakes games. Ranked 12th in Texas and 58th nationally, the Lobos have excelled in their ground game, averaging 264.3 rushing yards per game, and boast a stout defense that has allowed only 240 points all season. Longview’s 32.7 points per game and ability to adapt under pressure make them formidable opponents.
Scoring Trends
Southlake Carroll has established itself as a fast-starting team, averaging 18.3 points in the first quarter alone, setting the tone early and often. They maintain their dominance throughout the game, with steady scoring in subsequent quarters. Meanwhile, Longview’s scoring is more balanced, with their strongest output in the fourth quarter and overtime, a testament to their resilience and ability to close games.
Key Players
For Southlake Carroll, Riley Wormley leads the charge with 116.6 rushing yards per game and 14.4 points per game, while quarterback Angelo Renda averages 241.1 passing yards and 286.2 total yards per game. Receiver Brock Boyd has been Renda’s go-to target, averaging 117.9 receiving yards per game.
Longview’s standout player is Kelvin Washington, who averages an astounding 173.2 rushing yards and 17.1 points per game. Quarterback Maverick Rowe and linebacker Kason Brooks are other key contributors, with Brooks leading the team in tackles (11.0 per game) and sacks (1.1 per game).
Comparative Analysis
Southlake Carroll holds the edge in total offensive production, with nearly 100 more yards per game than Longview. Their aerial attack, led by Renda, starkly contrasts with Longview’s ground-heavy approach, spearheaded by Washington. Defensively, the teams are evenly matched, with Southlake Carroll averaging 74.6 tackles per game and Longview slightly ahead at 75.9.
The Dragons also excel in converting opportunities, with a higher points-per-game average and a perfect playoff record. However, Longview’s ability to control the clock with their rushing game and deliver in tight moments could tip the scales.
Game Outlook
This semifinal pits Southlake Carroll’s explosive offense against Longview’s physicality and grit. The Dragons’ ability to strike quickly will challenge the Lobos to play from behind, while Longview’s disciplined defense aims to disrupt Carroll’s rhythm.
Key factors to watch include turnovers, the performance of star players, and each team’s ability to capitalize on red-zone opportunities. Both squads are battle-tested, and this clash is expected to come down to the wire.
Prediction
Given Southlake Carroll’s consistent dominance and versatility, they hold a slight advantage. However, Longview’s tenacity and ground game make them a legitimate threat. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter that will likely hinge on late-game heroics.
Final Score Prediction: Southlake Carroll 38, Longview 31
