The Holmes County Central varsity football team from Lexington, MS, will compete against West Point, 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 Point vs Holmes County Central
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 5A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: West Point vs. Holmes County Central
The West Point Green Wave (8-3) will face off against the Holmes County Central Jaguars (8-3) in an exciting playoff matchup. Both teams have similar overall records and impressive district performances, making this game a hard-fought battle for supremacy. West Point comes in with a perfect district record, while Holmes County Central has excelled in non-league play, including a strong offense. This is expected to be a very competitive game.
Season Recap: West Point Green Wave
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 285 PF, 147 PA
- Scoring Average: 25.9 points per game
West Point has been consistent this season, going 8-3 with a perfect district record. They boast a solid defense, allowing just 147 points all year, and they have a balanced offensive attack. West Point’s offense averages just under 26 points per game, and they have performed well at home, with a 6-0 record.
Key Performances:
- Offense: West Point’s scoring has been evenly distributed, but they will need to step up their passing game to keep up with Holmes County Central’s potent offense.
- Defense: The defense has been one of West Point’s strong suits, allowing only 147 points all season. Players like Malachi Williams and Jatarion Epps will be crucial in trying to disrupt Holmes County Central’s high-flying attack.
Season Recap: Holmes County Central Jaguars
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 4-1
- Points For/Against: 348 PF, 203 PA
- Scoring Average: 31.6 points per game
Holmes County Central has been impressive this season with a potent offense that averages 31.6 points per game. They have a strong passing attack, with quarterback Garrison Davis leading the charge. Holmes County’s offense has been their biggest strength, and they will look to exploit West Point’s defense, which has been stout but could face challenges against their explosive passing game.
Key Performances:
- Offense: The Jaguars are led by Garrison Davis, who is one of the top quarterbacks in the state, along with standout receivers like Gavin Howard. Their high-powered offense will be a challenge for any defense.
- Defense: Holmes County Central’s defense is not as dominant as their offense, but they have made enough stops to secure victories, including a solid pass rush and playmaking ability from their linebackers.
Head-to-Head:
- West Point and Holmes County Central have not faced each other this season yet, but both teams have defeated common opponents.
Common Opponents:
- Corinth:
- West Point: Won 42-7 on October 11, 2024.
- Holmes County Central: Won 20-7 on November 15, 2024.
- Yazoo City:
- West Point: Won 41-0 on November 15, 2024.
- Holmes County Central: Won 46-20 on October 25, 2024.
Both teams defeated these common opponents, though West Point’s margins of victory were notably larger.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | West Point | Holmes County Central |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | – | 123.2 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | – | 293.2 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | – | 295.2 |
| Total Yards Per Game | – | 416.4 |
| Points Per Game | 25.9 | 31.6 |
| Tackles Per Game | 72.0 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 3.8 | – |
Holmes County Central’s offensive numbers are more impressive, especially in the passing game. West Point’s defense will need to step up to stop the Jaguars’ potent aerial attack, led by Garrison Davis.
Keys to Victory
For West Point:
- Defense vs. the Pass: West Point will need to limit Holmes County Central’s passing attack, especially Garrison Davis and Gavin Howard.
- Control the Clock: By using their rushing game and short passes, West Point can limit possessions and keep Holmes County’s offense off the field.
- Playmaker Impact: West Point’s offensive playmakers, including Jartavious Smart, will need to step up and keep pace with Holmes County’s high-scoring offense.
For Holmes County Central:
- Exploit the Passing Game: Holmes County Central should continue to rely on their aerial attack, with Garrison Davis distributing the ball to Gavin Howard and others.
- Disrupt West Point’s Offense: Holmes County Central’s defense will need to apply pressure on West Point’s offense, making it difficult for them to establish any rhythm.
- Big Plays: Holmes County Central is capable of scoring quickly. They should look for opportunities to break open the game with explosive plays.
Prediction:
Holmes County Central has the advantage with their explosive passing game and high-scoring offense. However, West Point’s solid defense and balanced play make them a formidable opponent. If West Point can limit the big plays and control the ball, they have a chance to make this game close.
