The West Orange-Stark (Orange, TX) varsity football team will play a home playoff game against La Vega (Waco, TX) today at 7:30 PM at Magnolia High School. This matchup is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, 4A Division 2 tournament.

West Orange-Stark vs La Vega Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: West Orange-Stark vs La Vega
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A D2
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Game preview: West Orange-Stark vs La Vega

The La Vega Pirates (8-3) are set to face off against the West Orange-Stark Mustangs (9-2) in a highly anticipated Texas playoff game tonight at 7:30 PM at West Orange-Stark’s home field. The teams come into the game with impressive regular-season records and strong performances on both sides of the ball, making this playoff matchup one to watch closely.

Season Overview: La Vega vs. West Orange-Stark

Both teams have been stellar this season, each bringing a unique brand of football to the table. La Vega finished with an 8-3 overall record, dominating their district with a perfect 5-0 record. They have averaged 36.6 points per game, with solid performances across all four quarters. Their offensive stats include 167.5 rushing yards per game and 186.0 passing yards per game, showcasing a well-balanced attack.

West Orange-Stark, on the other hand, posted a 9-2 record, with a 4-1 district mark. The Mustangs boast an identical 36.6 points per game average, matching La Vega in scoring but excelling in total yards per game with 353.5. Their offense is led by a mix of rushing and passing yards, making them a formidable all-around team.

Key Players to Watch

Both teams have standout players who could make all the difference in this postseason matchup:

• La Vega’s Bryson Roland: The standout rusher for La Vega, Roland leads the team with 108.5 rushing yards per game. His explosive playmaking ability has been key to the Pirates’ offensive success this season.
• West Orange-Stark’s Kourtney Parr: Parr has been a dual threat for the Mustangs, leading the team with 142.5 passing yards per game and 142.1 total yards per game. His ability to distribute the ball and make plays in the air has been crucial for West Orange-Stark this season.
• La Vega’s Jabarie Thornton: Thornton has been a key receiving weapon for the Pirates, racking up 96.2 receiving yards per game. His ability to stretch the field and make big plays will be crucial against a tough West Orange-Stark defense.
• West Orange-Stark’s Warren Richardson: On defense, Richardson has been a force for the Mustangs, with 0.7 sacks per game and solid tackling stats. His ability to disrupt the pocket will be critical in slowing down La Vega’s offense.

Previous Meeting: West Orange-Stark Defeats La Vega

The teams met earlier this season in a non-district matchup on September 13, 2024, where West Orange-Stark came out on top with a 35-27 victory. The game was competitive, with La Vega starting strong in the first half, but West Orange-Stark’s defense clamped down in the second half, holding La Vega to just 7 points after halftime. The Mustangs’ defense proved to be the difference, as they shut out La Vega in the third quarter and held them to just one touchdown in the final quarter.

Playoff Implications

This game is a high-stakes playoff encounter, with both teams aiming for a deep run in the postseason. The winner will advance with momentum and a chance to further their state title hopes. La Vega will look to avenge their earlier loss, and with their undefeated district record, they come into the game with confidence. Meanwhile, West Orange-Stark will aim to continue their strong form and capitalize on the home-field advantage.

Statistical Breakdown

Here’s a quick comparison of the two teams’ stats this season:

• La Vega
  • Points per Game: 36.6
  • Rushing Yards: 167.5
  • Passing Yards: 186.0
  • Total Yards: 353.5
  • Tackles per Game: 66.8
  • Sacks per Game: 1.8
• West Orange-Stark
  • Points per Game: 35.0
  • Rushing Yards: 186.0
  • Passing Yards: 184.6
  • Total Yards: 353.5
  • Tackles per Game: 66.8
  • Sacks per Game: 1.0

Both teams are closely matched in terms of offensive production and total yards per game. This game could come down to which team can better execute in the red zone and limit mistakes.

Conclusion

The La Vega Pirates and West Orange-Stark Mustangs are two of the best teams in Texas high school football, and their playoff showdown promises to be an exciting contest. With standout players and solid team performances on both sides, this game is a must-watch. Fans of Texas football can expect a hard-fought battle that could set the stage for a thrilling playoff run.