The Columbus High School varsity football team from Miami, FL, will host a playoff game against Western High School from Davie, FL, on Friday, November 29, at 2:00 PM at Columbus. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the 7A division.
Western vs Columbus High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: Western vs Columbus
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 2:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 7A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Western vs Columbus
The Columbus Explorers (Miami, FL) will host the Western Wildcats (Davie, FL) on Friday, November 29, at 2:00 PM in a pivotal playoff clash in the 2024 FHSAA 7A Football State Championships. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but their paths to this playoff game highlight contrasting strengths and weaknesses.
Season Performance
- Columbus Explorers (8-3, 4-0 District)
The Explorers dominated their district with a perfect 4-0 record and an impressive .727 overall win percentage. They’ve been particularly strong at home, winning 5 of their 6 games. Columbus has outscored opponents 314-149 this season, showcasing a balanced team capable of explosive scoring and stout defense. - Western Wildcats (6-6, 2-1 District)
Western enters this matchup as a .500 team overall but boasts a 5-1 record in road games, making them a dangerous opponent. They’ve scored 302 points while allowing 170, relying on a high-powered offense to overcome defensive inconsistencies.
Statistical Comparison
- Offense:
Western holds the edge in total offense, averaging 305.8 yards per game compared to Columbus’ 220.7. The Wildcats excel in both passing (163.8 yards per game) and rushing (142.0 yards per game), led by standout QB Sebastian Circo and RB Johnathan Bueno.
Columbus, while less prolific, is efficient, with 115.0 rushing yards and 105.7 passing yards per game. RB Agyeman Addae has been their workhorse, complemented by a capable receiving corps. - Defense:
Columbus has allowed fewer points (149) than Western (170) across the season. The Explorers’ defense is spearheaded by Hector Chavez, averaging 7.5 tackles per game, and Ethan Barosela, who leads the team in sacks. Western’s Julian Mendez anchors their defense with 9.3 tackles per game, but their overall defensive stats suggest vulnerabilities that Columbus may exploit.
Scoring Trends
Western starts fast, averaging 14 points in the first half, while Columbus tends to build momentum late, with consistent scoring across all four quarters. This contrast could shape the game’s dynamics, especially if Western can pressure Columbus early.
Key Players to Watch
- Western Wildcats:
- Sebastian Circo (QB): The offensive engine, averaging 140.7 passing yards and 155.6 total yards per game.
- Johnathan Bueno (RB): Leads the rushing attack with 76.3 yards per game and is a consistent scorer.
- Julian Mendez (LB): Defensive standout with 9.3 tackles per game.
- Columbus Explorers:
- Agyeman Addae (RB): A dual-threat weapon averaging 77.8 total yards per game.
- Hector Chavez (LB): A reliable presence on defense with 7.5 tackles per game.
- Alexander Fitzgibbons (K): A steady contributor in close games, averaging 5.5 points per game.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced St. Thomas Aquinas and Palmetto this season, with mixed results. Western lost to Aquinas but defeated Palmetto, while Columbus mirrored this pattern. These performances offer little separation between the teams, adding intrigue to their upcoming clash.
What to Expect
This game will likely come down to Columbus’ defense against Western’s explosive offense. If the Explorers can contain Circo and Bueno, their disciplined play and home-field advantage could tip the scales. Conversely, Western’s road success and offensive firepower make them a serious threat to pull off the upset.
As both teams battle for a spot in the next round of the 7A State Championships, expect a hard-fought and thrilling contest at Columbus High School on Friday afternoon.
