The Killingly (CT) varsity football team will host Waterford (CT) in a home playoff game today at 12:30 PM at Killingly. This game is part of the “2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets: CIAC – Class SS” tournament.

Waterford vs Killingly High School Football Game Info:

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

Game Preview: Waterford vs Killingly

The Killingly Redmen have been dominant all season, posting an impressive 11-0 record and entering the postseason as the top seed in Class SS. They are coming off a perfect 6-0 home record and are looking to continue their undefeated run as they take on Waterford. Killingly’s explosive offense and stingy defense have made them one of the most feared teams in the state, outscoring opponents by an average of 49.5 points per game.

Meanwhile, Waterford enters the game with a solid 9-2 record, having finished 5-1 in league play. The Lancers have been impressive this season, especially in their dominant victories over Woodstock Academy, East Lyme, and others. Waterford has averaged 28.9 points per game, led by quarterback Jax Higgins, who has contributed both in the air and on the ground, with an average of 140.3 rushing yards per game.

Waterford’s Strong Playoff Push

Waterford’s offense is centered around Higgins, who has been a dual-threat quarterback, adding 82.7 passing yards per game along with his 140.3 rushing yards per game. His playmaking ability has been the driving force behind the Lancers’ success this season. Additionally, Mason Nocery has been a reliable target in the passing game, contributing 39.7 receiving yards per game.

On defense, Waterford has been tough but will face one of the most potent offenses in the state. With an average of 58.8 tackles per game, the Lancers will need to ramp up their defensive intensity to compete with Killingly’s high-powered attack.

Killingly’s Dominance

Killingly has been the model of consistency all season, with a perfect 11-0 record. The Redmen have one of the most explosive offenses in the state, averaging 49.5 points per game. Running back Hayden Allard has been the focal point of the attack, averaging 158.4 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Quinn Sumner has added 97.7 passing yards per game. The Redmen have an excellent balance of rushing and passing, making them a difficult team to stop.

Killingly’s defense has also been one of their strongest assets, averaging 58.8 tackles per game. The defense will be led by linebacker Anthony Oates, who has contributed 9.9 tackles per game. The Redmen’s defense has been highly efficient, allowing just 140 points all season.

Team Comparison: Offense & Defense

Killingly has been dominant both offensively and defensively. Their offense averages 348.6 total yards per game, with 259.1 rushing yards per game leading the way. 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 has the edge in both total and rushing yards, Waterford has been a tough opponent this season, with a solid all-around game.

Defensively, Killingly has allowed just 140 points this season, while Waterford has allowed 146. Both teams have been effective in limiting their opponents’ scoring, but Killingly’s defense has been a bit more dominant in the postseason.

Common Opponents

Both teams faced Woodstock Academy, with Waterford winning 34-2 and Killingly winning 47-0. Additionally, both teams faced Norwich Free Academy, with Waterford losing 27-6 and Killingly winning 53-13. Waterford’s victories over East Lyme and other opponents have shown that they are a team to watch, but Killingly’s undefeated record and dominant play this season make them the team to beat in this matchup.

Key Players to Watch:

• Waterford: Quarterback Jax Higgins, with his ability to both run and pass, is the key player for Waterford. The Lancers will need a big game from him to stay competitive. Defensively, linebacker Anthony Oates will be crucial in trying to slow down Killingly’s potent offense.
• Killingly: Running back Hayden Allard and quarterback Quinn Sumner are the top offensive weapons for Killingly, while linebacker Anthony Oates anchors the defense.

Conclusion

This Class SS playoff game promises to be an exciting contest between two well-coached teams. Killingly’s high-scoring offense and stout defense will be tested by Waterford’s versatile attack and resilient defense. While Killingly enters as the undefeated favorite, Waterford’s balanced team and strong playmakers could make for an upset if they play at their best. Fans across Connecticut should tune in to this thrilling playoff battle!