The West Plains varsity football team from Amarillo, TX, will face Celina, TX, in a neutral playoff game today at 7:30 PM at Shotwell Stadium in Abilene, TX. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships, specifically the 2024 Football Conference 4A Division 1 tournament.

West Plains vs Celina Game Info:

What: Texas High School Football Playoffs
Who: West Plains vs Celina
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Football State Championships – 2024 Football Conference 4A D1
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: West Plains vs Celina

As the 2024-2025 high school football season heats up, two teams stand out: Celina and West Plains. Both teams have delivered impressive performances this year, and though they haven’t faced each other directly, a closer look at their records and statistics reveals a fascinating comparison. Let’s dive into the numbers and see how these teams stack up.

Overall Performance and Rankings

Celina sits comfortably at the top of the Texas state rankings in their division, boasting a flawless 14-0 overall record. Their 6-0 league record is equally spotless, cementing their dominance both at home (5-0) and on the road (5-0). With a staggering 726 points scored this season and only 212 points allowed, Celina’s defense and offense have been unstoppable.

West Plains, while not quite as dominant as Celina, has had an impressive season in its own right. Ranked 75th in the state and 24th in their section, West Plains holds an 11-3 overall record with an undefeated 5-0 in district play. With a solid scoring offense that has racked up 557 points and a defense that’s allowed 343 points, West Plains has shown they can be a formidable opponent.

Team Scoring Averages

Celina’s offense has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging 51.9 points per game. The bulk of their scoring comes in the first half, with 12.3 points in the first quarter and a notable 15.1 points in the second quarter. Their aggressive start has allowed them to control games early on.

West Plains, while not as explosive as Celina, still boasts a respectable 39.8 points per game. Like Celina, they tend to start strong, putting up 9.5 points in the first quarter and 13.7 in the second. However, they taper off slightly in the second half, where their scoring slows down.

Statistical Comparison

Comparing the two teams statistically reveals Celina’s edge in several key areas. For instance, Celina’s balanced offense shines with 195.6 rushing yards and 241.4 passing yards per game, totaling an impressive 437 total yards per game. Their defense, led by standout performances, averages 76.8 tackles and 1 sack per game. The balance between offense and defense is one of Celina’s keys to success.

West Plains, while not far behind, has focused more on their ground game. They average 195.6 rushing yards per game but trail in passing, putting up only 50.2 passing yards. Their defense is less dominant, averaging fewer tackles and sacks compared to Celina, and they allow more points per game.

Key Players

For Celina, #10 Slade Russell leads the rushing game, averaging 111.7 yards per game. Quarterback Reid Macon (#14) has been a standout passer, throwing for an impressive 232.9 yards per game, while wide receiver Kane White-Tinsley (#3) racks up 71.3 receiving yards. On defense, Tryston Hernandez (#9) is a tackling machine, averaging 9.7 tackles per game, and Gianni Peck (#44) contributes with 1 sack per game.

West Plains, on the other hand, relies heavily on their rushing game as well, but their top rushing yard average of 19.9 pales in comparison to Celina. They also lack a standout passer or receiver, with no players coming close to Celina’s star performers. Defensively, West Plains struggles to match Celina’s production, with lower averages in tackles and sacks.

Record Breakdown

When it comes to the breakdown of their records, Celina is unblemished. They have gone 14-0 overall, 6-0 in league play, and 4-0 in the playoffs. They’ve won all their home, away, and neutral-site games, showcasing their adaptability and consistency.

West Plains has a solid 11-3 record but has struggled outside of district play, going 2-3 in non-league games. While they’ve been undefeated in district play (5-0) and boast a strong playoff record (4-0), they’ve shown vulnerability, particularly on the road where they’ve lost two games.

Conclusion

Celina’s dominance is undeniable, with an undefeated record, an explosive offense, and a stingy defense. West Plains, while successful, doesn’t quite match Celina’s balance or firepower. Should these two teams face off, Celina’s well-rounded attack and defensive prowess would likely give them the upper hand.

Both teams have had tremendous seasons, but in this tale of two teams, Celina’s consistency and star power make them the team to beat in Texas high school football this year.