The Killingly Redmen will host the Waterford Lancers today at 12:30 PM in a highly anticipated playoff matchup at Killingly High School. This game is part of the 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets for CIAC Class SS. With both teams coming into this game with impressive records, this promises to be a thrilling postseason clash.

Game Information:

• What: Connecticut High School Football
• Who: Waterford vs. Killingly
• When: Sunday, December 8, 2024
• Time: 12:30 p.m.
• Bracket: 2024 CIAC Class SS Playoff
• Live Stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Waterford vs. Killingly

The Killingly Redmen enter this game as the top seed in Class SS with an unblemished 11-0 record. They have been dominant all season, including a perfect 6-0 at home, and are aiming to extend their undefeated run as they take on Waterford. With one of the most potent offenses in the state, averaging 49.5 points per game, and a defense that has been equally impressive, Killingly has become one of the most formidable teams in Connecticut.

Waterford, with a solid 9-2 record and a 5-1 league mark, enters this game looking to make a statement. They have been strong all season, highlighted by impressive wins over Woodstock Academy, East Lyme, and Norwich Free Academy. The Lancers are led by dual-threat quarterback Jax Higgins, who has been a standout player, rushing for an average of 140.3 yards per game while also contributing 82.7 passing yards per game.

Waterford’s Playoff Push

Waterford’s offense revolves around Jax Higgins, who provides a dual threat both as a rusher and a passer. His 140.3 rushing yards per game and 82.7 passing yards per game have been crucial to the Lancers’ offensive success. Wide receiver Mason Nocery has also been a reliable target, contributing 39.7 receiving yards per game.

While Waterford’s offense has been efficient, their defense will face a tall task in containing Killingly’s explosive attack. The Lancers’ defense has averaged 58.8 tackles per game and will need to bring their best performance to slow down the Redmen’s high-powered offense.

Killingly’s Dominance

Killingly has been nearly unstoppable this season, boasting an 11-0 record with a balanced and explosive offense. Running back Hayden Allard, who averages 158.4 rushing yards per game, has been the cornerstone of the Redmen’s offense. Quarterback Quinn Sumner has complemented Allard’s ground game with 97.7 passing yards per game. The Redmen have been equally proficient in the air and on the ground, making them a tough team to stop.

Defensively, Killingly has been just as dominant, allowing only 140 points throughout the season. With linebacker Anthony Oates leading the defense, the Redmen have been highly efficient in limiting their opponents’ scoring.

Team Comparison: Offense & Defense

Offensively, Killingly has the edge, averaging 348.6 total yards per game, with 259.1 of those yards coming on the ground. Waterford, on the other hand, averages 316.2 total yards per game, with a strong rushing attack that accounts for 233.5 yards per game. While Killingly’s offense has been more productive overall, Waterford’s running game will be a key factor in this matchup.

Defensively, both teams have been stout, but Killingly has been the more dominant of the two, allowing just 140 points this season compared to Waterford’s 146. Killingly has also been more aggressive, with an average of 58.8 tackles per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams faced Woodstock Academy, with Waterford winning 34-2 and Killingly winning 47-0. Both teams also faced Norwich Free Academy, with Waterford falling 27-6 and Killingly winning 53-13. These results offer a glimpse into how both teams performed against similar opponents, with Killingly showing a slightly stronger edge in these matchups.

Key Players to Watch:

• Waterford: Quarterback Jax Higgins will be the key player for Waterford, as his ability to lead both the passing and rushing attack will be crucial in staying competitive. Defensively, linebacker Anthony Oates will be key in trying to slow down Killingly’s offense.
• Killingly: Running back Hayden Allard and quarterback Quinn Sumner are the primary offensive threats for Killingly. On defense, linebacker Anthony Oates anchors the Redmen’s stout defense.

Conclusion

This Class SS playoff matchup promises to be an exciting contest between two well-coached teams. Killingly’s explosive offense and strong defense will be tested by Waterford’s versatile attack and resilient defense. While Killingly enters as the undefeated favorite, Waterford’s balanced team and talented playmakers could cause an upset if they play to their potential. Connecticut football fans won’t want to miss this thrilling postseason showdown!