The Franklin Pierce High School (Tacoma, WA) varsity football team is set to host a playoff game against WF West High School (Chehalis, WA) on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Washington High School Football
Who: WF West vs Franklin Pierce
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
“2024 Football Washington State Championships – 2A State Football”
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

WF West vs. Franklin Pierce: A Tale of Two Football Powerhouses

The high school football season has reached an electrifying climax as WF West and Franklin Pierce prepare to clash in a matchup that promises intense competition. Both teams boast impressive records and dynamic players, but their paths to success have revealed distinct strengths. Here’s an in-depth look at how these two programs compare.

Season Overview and Rankings

WF West (10-1 overall, 3-1 in district play) enters this matchup as a dominant force, ranked 35th in the state and 7th in their class. Despite suffering one loss, they have demonstrated resilience, outscoring opponents 443-123 over the season. The Bearcats have been particularly strong at home, where they hold a 6-1 record.

Franklin Pierce, however, has been unstoppable this season, maintaining a perfect 11-0 record (7-0 in district play) and ranking 27th in the state and 5th in their class. The Cardinals have overwhelmed their competition, outscoring them 580-93, with their offense and defense operating at an elite level.

Scoring Averages

The scoring trends provide a clear picture of each team’s offensive strategy:

• WF West:
  • Averaging 40.3 points per game, the Bearcats’ offense thrives early, with their strongest quarters being the first (9.9 points) and second (16.7 points). However, scoring tapers off in the second half, signaling room for improvement in sustaining momentum.
• Franklin Pierce:
  • The Cardinals average a remarkable 52.7 points per game, with their most explosive performances in the first (20.0 points) and second quarters (25.0 points). Unlike WF West, Franklin Pierce maintains consistency into the second half, showcasing their depth and endurance.

Team Stats: Offensive Powerhouses

Franklin Pierce’s offensive numbers set them apart:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 388.1
• Total Yards Per Game: 432.8
• Points Per Game: 52.7

WF West, while slightly behind, also boasts impressive production:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: 138.3 (led by Bryson Allen)
• Passing Yards Per Game: 41.5

The Cardinals’ ability to dominate on the ground and control the tempo gives them a significant edge.

Key Players to Watch

WF West:

• Bryson Allen (#2): The driving force behind the Bearcats’ offense, Allen averages 138.3 total yards per game and 12.0 points per game. His ability to break through defenses will be crucial against Franklin Pierce’s formidable front.
• Zeke Isaacson (#45): A defensive anchor, Isaacson averages 9.4 tackles per game, bringing consistency and energy to the field.

Franklin Pierce:

• Junior Teregeyo (#4): A dual-threat player with 22.5 receiving yards and 0.6 sacks per game, Teregeyo’s versatility makes him a key contributor on both sides of the ball.
• Team Defense: Averaging 58.7 tackles per game and 3.4 sacks, the Cardinals’ defense has been relentless, stifling opponents’ offenses all season.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams share a victory over Sequim:

• WF West defeated Sequim 56-3 on November 9, demonstrating their ability to dominate weaker teams.
• Franklin Pierce secured a 36-14 win over Sequim on September 13, showcasing their consistent offensive production.

This comparison highlights Franklin Pierce’s consistency across the board, while WF West’s explosive potential may give them an edge in moments of brilliance.

What to Expect

This matchup will likely be decided by the following factors:

1. Defensive Strength: Franklin Pierce’s defense has proven its ability to shut down opponents, but WF West’s resilience might present challenges.
2. Key Player Performances: Both Allen and Teregeyo will need to rise to the occasion and deliver standout performances.
3. Sustained Momentum: WF West must address their second-half scoring struggles if they hope to keep pace with Franklin Pierce’s relentless offense.

Prediction

While both teams are undeniably strong, Franklin Pierce’s flawless record, dominant rushing game, and consistent scoring suggest they have the upper hand. However, WF West’s tenacity and ability to explode offensively could make this a nail-biter.

Final Score Prediction: Franklin Pierce 48, WF West 35