The West Potomac High School (Alexandria, VA) varsity football team will host South County (Lorton, VA) for a home playoff game today at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Football
Who: West Potomac vs South County
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 VHSL Football State Brackets (Virginia) – Class 6”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

South County vs. West Potomac: A Competitive Football Rivalry

As the Virginia high school football season draws to a close, the matchup between South County and West Potomac has become a pivotal contest. The two teams, representing Lorton and Alexandria respectively, have a strong rivalry with contrasting performances this season, making their latest encounter one to watch.

Team Overview: South County and West Potomac

South County, with a record of 4-6, has faced challenges this season but has managed to secure some notable wins, especially in region play. With a region record of 4-3, they are showing competitive strength, particularly at home with a 3-3 record. However, their overall record of 4-6 indicates struggles on the road, where they have a 1-3 mark.

On the other hand, West Potomac comes into the game with a slightly better overall record of 5-5, but with a more troubling region record of 3-4. Their home record is solid at 3-2, though their performance away has been inconsistent with a 2-3 record. The game between these two schools is highly anticipated, as both teams aim to prove themselves heading into the playoffs.

Scoring Averages and Performance Trends

One key difference between these two teams is their offensive output. West Potomac has been averaging 24 points per game, significantly more than South County’s 16.8 points per game. The West Potomac offense has been more explosive in the second quarter, averaging 19 points per game in that period alone, compared to South County’s average of just 2.8. Meanwhile, South County has struggled in the second half, scoring only 4.2 points across the third and fourth quarters, highlighting the team’s difficulty closing out games.

In contrast, West Potomac has been able to maintain consistent scoring across all four quarters, especially in the second half. With an average of 7 points in both the third and fourth quarters, West Potomac’s ability to score in key moments gives them an edge in close contests.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The most recent matchup between these two teams, which took place on November 8th, saw West Potomac edge out South County 17-14 in a tightly contested game. This victory added to their head-to-head advantage, giving them a 1-0 record over South County this season. The close scoreline shows that South County can compete, but they need to find ways to close out games and improve their offensive production, particularly in the second and fourth quarters.

Team Stat Comparison

Looking at key team statistics, South County leads in rushing yards per game with 165.6 yards, compared to West Potomac’s 98.1 yards. However, West Potomac holds the edge in passing yards per game, with 116.2 yards compared to South County’s 81.9. South County has a slight advantage in total yards per game, averaging 347.5 yards, while West Potomac averages 214.3 yards.

In terms of defense, both teams are relatively evenly matched. West Potomac records 42.4 tackles per game and 1.3 sacks per game, while South County has a slightly higher overall yardage but has struggled defensively to prevent big plays, reflected in their 281 points allowed this season.

Player Spotlight: Key Leaders

• South County: Seif Koroma is a standout performer for South County, leading the team with an impressive 80.2 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Nicholas Simay has also been a key contributor, throwing for 114.9 yards per game and totaling 175.6 yards per game. Azavier Dorsey has been South County’s top receiving threat, recording 62.0 yards per game.
• West Potomac: Jaxon Gray leads West Potomac in rushing with 50.7 yards per game. Ben Knapp is the team’s primary quarterback, posting 129.3 passing yards per game. Receiver Darius Childs has been a standout performer, averaging 65.5 receiving yards per game. On defense, Jack Coulter has been a key tackler, recording 7.0 tackles per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opponents, but with varying results. South County has managed to secure wins against teams like Robinson, West Springfield, and Woodson, while West Potomac has faced some struggles, particularly in their losses to teams like Robinson and Fairfax. However, West Potomac had a strong showing in their recent win against Alexandria City, a game that South County had previously won 8-0.

Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications

Both teams will need to perform well in their upcoming playoff games to secure their postseason fate. South County will be hoping to bounce back from their loss against West Potomac and improve on their 0-3 playoff record in recent years. West Potomac, with a 1-0 lead over South County in head-to-head matchups, will look to build on their momentum and continue their playoff push.

As the season draws to a close, both teams will be looking to sharpen their game plans and focus on key areas where they have shown promise. Whether it’s South County’s strong rushing attack or West Potomac’s balanced offensive approach, both teams have the potential to make noise in the postseason.

Conclusion

The South County vs. West Potomac rivalry is one marked by close games and strong competition. With both teams having their strengths and weaknesses, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, especially as the postseason looms. Fans and players alike will be watching closely, knowing that the outcome could shape their playoff hopes and add another chapter to this exciting rivalry.