The Myrtle varsity football team from Myrtle, MS, will face West Lowndes from Columbus, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: West Lowndes vs Myrtle
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 1A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: West Lowndes vs. Myrtle
The West Lowndes (7-5) vs. Myrtle (8-3) playoff matchup promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams bringing solid performances into the postseason. Myrtle has been dominant in district play, while West Lowndes has shown resilience with some big wins in the regular season. This game will showcase two teams with different styles of play, but both capable of making a deep playoff run.
Season Recap: West Lowndes Panthers
- Record: 7-5
- District Record: 2-1
- Points For/Against: 440 PF, 296 PA
- Scoring Average: 21.6 points per game
West Lowndes has had a solid season with a good record despite a challenging schedule. Their ability to score points in the second half of games has been a key factor, with a high 14.3-point average in the fourth quarter. However, they will need to improve consistency across all four quarters to advance in the playoffs.
Key Performances:
- Offense: West Lowndes has been effective in both the passing and rushing games, with Zane Hill leading the offense with 113.4 passing yards per game.
- Defense: Mitchell Rutherford leads the defense with 6.2 tackles per game, and his play will be key in limiting Myrtle’s offensive success.
Season Recap: Myrtle Hawks
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 3-0
- Points For/Against: 310 PF, 190 PA
- Scoring Average: 28.2 points per game
Myrtle has been impressive this season, particularly in district play, finishing with a perfect 3-0 record. Their offense, averaging over 28 points per game, has been the driving force behind their success. Their defense has been solid as well, with just 190 points allowed. The Hawks will look to carry their momentum into the playoffs and make a deep run.
Key Performances:
- Offense: The rushing attack, led by Colton Gordon (48.7 rushing yards per game), and Zane Hill’s passing ability (113.4 yards per game) have been major contributors.
- Defense: Mitchell Rutherford’s tackling presence (6.2 tackles per game) has been a critical part of the defense. The Hawks’ ability to stop West Lowndes’ offense will be crucial.
Head-to-Head:
Neither team has faced off in 2024 yet, but both teams have faced some common opponents. West Lowndes lost to Biggersville early in the season, while Myrtle recorded a convincing win over Biggersville in their most recent matchup. Both teams won against Strayhorn, showcasing their strengths against common opponents.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | West Lowndes | Myrtle |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | – | 186.6 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | – | 115.5 |
| Total Yards Per Game | – | 302.1 |
| Points Per Game | 21.6 | 28.2 |
| Tackles Per Game | 51.8 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 1.6 | – |
Key Players to Watch
- West Lowndes:
- Zane Hill (QB): Hill’s passing game will be important in keeping Myrtle’s defense off-balance.
- Mitchell Rutherford (LB): Rutherford will be crucial in stopping Myrtle’s rushing game and providing leadership on defense.
- Harlem McClendon (RB): McClendon is expected to contribute significantly on the ground and help move the chains for the Panthers.
- Myrtle:
- Colton Gordon (RB): Gordon leads Myrtle’s running game and will be pivotal in controlling the tempo of the game.
- Zane Hill (QB): Hill is an all-around offensive threat and will need to execute the passing game to stretch West Lowndes’ defense.
- Mitchell Rutherford (LB): Another key Rutherford, who will help lead the defense in stopping West Lowndes’ balanced offensive attack.
Keys to Victory
For West Lowndes:
- Defensive Discipline: West Lowndes needs to be disciplined on defense, particularly in stopping Myrtle’s rushing attack, led by Colton Gordon.
- Efficient Offense: The Panthers must execute a balanced offensive attack, utilizing both the run and pass to keep Myrtle guessing.
- Control the Game Flow: West Lowndes needs to limit Myrtle’s offensive opportunities and control time of possession, especially in the second half, where they have excelled.
For Myrtle:
- Exploit the Rushing Attack: Myrtle’s strength lies in their ability to move the ball on the ground, and they will need to lean on their running game to wear down West Lowndes.
- Pressure Zane Hill: Myrtle needs to generate pressure on West Lowndes’ quarterback, Zane Hill, to disrupt their passing game.
- Stay Balanced Offensively: While the rushing game is key, Myrtle will need to mix in some passing plays to keep West Lowndes’ defense honest.
Prediction:
This game is likely to be competitive, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Myrtle’s offense has been the most consistent throughout the season, and their defensive play will be crucial to stopping West Lowndes’ balanced attack. If Myrtle can control the clock and move the ball on the ground, they should have the upper hand.
