The Fairfield Prep (Fairfield, CT) varsity football team will host West Haven (CT) today at 12:30 PM for a pivotal CIAC Class LL playoff game. This exciting matchup is a rematch following Fairfield Prep’s 31-20 victory over West Haven last month. Both teams are looking to advance to the next round of the Connecticut high school football playoffs in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

Game Information:

• What: CIAC Class LL High School Football Playoff
• Who: West Haven vs. Fairfield Prep
• When: Sunday, December 8, 2024
• Time: 12:30 p.m.
• Bracket: 2024 Connecticut High School Football Playoff Brackets: CIAC – Class LL
• Live Stream: Watch here

Team Breakdown: Fairfield Prep vs. West Haven

Fairfield Prep (10-1)
Fairfield Prep, ranked 7th in the state and 2nd in Class LL, has had an impressive season, finishing with a 10-1 record. Their potent offense, led by quarterback Robert Manning (234.1 total yards per game), has averaged 33.2 points per game. Their defense, anchored by linebacker Mason Frey (12 tackles per game), has been one of the best in the state, limiting opponents to just 171 points. With a perfect 6-0 record at home this season, Fairfield Prep is a tough opponent at their home field and will be looking to continue their strong play into the playoffs.

West Haven (9-2)
West Haven, ranked 12th in the state and 4th in Class LL, enters the game with a solid 9-2 record. The Green Knights’ offense is led by running back Coryon Harris, who averages 103.7 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Nick Conlan, who has thrown for 174.1 passing yards per game. West Haven has been averaging 30.3 points per game this season. On defense, Joey Copela has been a standout, recording 8.6 tackles per game. West Haven will be looking to avenge their loss to Fairfield Prep in their earlier meeting and advance further in the tournament.

Statistical Comparison

Offense:
Fairfield Prep has a slight edge in total yards per game, averaging 334.7 yards compared to West Haven’s 392.4. Fairfield Prep excels in the passing game, posting 221.9 passing yards per game, while West Haven is stronger on the ground, averaging 218.3 rushing yards per game. Both teams have explosive offenses, which could make for an exciting and high-scoring game.

Defense:
Fairfield Prep has the advantage defensively, allowing just 171 points over the course of the season. In comparison, West Haven has given up 126 points. Fairfield Prep’s defense, led by Frey, has been more effective at stopping big plays, while West Haven will need to step up defensively to slow down Fairfield Prep’s powerful offense.

Players to Watch

Fairfield Prep:

• Robert Manning (QB): Manning is a dual-threat quarterback who can pass and run, making him a critical part of Fairfield Prep’s offensive game plan.
• Finbar Malloy (WR): Malloy is a key target in the passing game, averaging 80.5 receiving yards per game.
• Mason Frey (LB): Frey has been a standout on defense with 12 tackles per game, and his performance will be crucial in stopping West Haven’s offensive attack.

West Haven:

• Coryon Harris (RB): Harris is the workhorse of West Haven’s offense, and his ability to move the ball on the ground will be essential for West Haven’s success.
• Nick Conlan (QB): Conlan is the leader of the West Haven offense and will need to balance both the running and passing games to keep Fairfield Prep’s defense on its toes.
• Joey Copela (LB): Copela has been a standout on defense with 8.6 tackles per game and will need to be at his best to contain Fairfield Prep’s offense.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced the same opponents this season, with Fairfield Prep winning all three matchups, including victories over Shelton, Hamden, and North Haven. West Haven also won these games, but their win over Shelton was a closer contest, and they struggled more against higher-ranked teams. These shared results highlight the competitiveness of both teams and set the stage for an exciting playoff clash.

What’s at Stake

This game is crucial for both teams, as the winner will advance to the next round of the CIAC Class LL playoffs. Fairfield Prep aims to build on their strong season and make a run for the championship, while West Haven hopes to bounce back from their earlier loss and prove they can compete with the best. Both teams have potent offenses and strong defenses, so fans can expect a high-intensity game filled with big plays and momentum shifts.

With both teams eager to keep their championship hopes alive, this playoff showdown promises to be a thrilling spectacle for Connecticut high school football fans.