The Wilcox (Santa Clara, CA) varsity football team is set for a neutral playoff game against Palma (Salinas, CA) today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 CIF Central Coast Section Football Championships, Division II, where both teams will compete for a spot in the next round.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: California State Football Championship
Who: Palma vs Wilcox
When: Today, November 30, 2024
Bracket: 2024 CIF Central Coast Section Football Championships (California) – Division II
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Palma vs. Wilcox
The upcoming matchup between Palma and Wilcox presents an intriguing contest between two teams that have had strong seasons in their respective leagues. With Palma boasting a 7-5 record and Wilcox coming in with an impressive 10-2 record, both teams have proven themselves capable of competing at a high level. Their strong running games, combined with solid defenses, set the stage for what should be an exciting postseason showdown.
Offensive Breakdown
Both teams share a similar approach to offense, relying heavily on the run game to dictate the pace of play. Palma has averaged 230.8 rushing yards per game, led by Eli Dukes, who has rushed for 161.8 yards per game. Dukes has been the key to Palma’s offensive success, contributing to both the rushing and total yardage, with 175.7 total yards per game. While Palma also has a capable passing attack, with Patrick Driscoll contributing 87.6 passing yards per game, the offense primarily revolves around the ground game.
In contrast, Wilcox has been even more reliant on the run, averaging 280.7 rushing yards per game, led by Brayden Rosa, who has posted 119.0 rushing yards per game. Like Palma, Wilcox also features a solid passing attack, with Kai Imahara contributing 89.3 passing yards per game, but the team’s offensive identity is firmly grounded in its running game. Rosa also leads the team in total yardage, posting 149.2 total yards per game, making him a dual-threat both on the ground and through the air.
Both teams are efficient at moving the ball, with Palma averaging 323.2 total yards per game and Wilcox averaging 362.8 total yards per game. However, Wilcox holds a clear advantage in total yardage, reflecting its potent rushing attack and ability to control the clock.
Defensive Comparison
Defensively, Palma and Wilcox have both proven to be strong units, although Wilcox has the slight edge in terms of overall pressure. Palma has been solid, with no specific tackles or sack stats listed, but the team has shown it can stop the run and pass effectively. Wilcox, on the other hand, has averaged 60.9 tackles per game, with Brayden Rosa also leading the charge defensively with 7.7 tackles per game. The defense also features Santino Barragan, who has contributed 0.5 sacks per game, making him an important factor in pressuring the opposing quarterback.
Both teams have shown the ability to shut down common opponents, each winning decisively against teams like Hollister, Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, and Menlo School, further showcasing their defensive prowess. Wilcox’s ability to generate pressure on defense, combined with its strong tackling, could give it a slight advantage in the trenches.
Key Players to Watch
For Palma, Eli Dukes is the player to watch. His ability to take over games with his ground game and contribute as a ball carrier makes him the focal point of the offense. His performance on the field will be key to keeping Wilcox’s defense off balance and controlling the tempo of the game.
On Wilcox’s side, Brayden Rosa is the standout player. Not only does he lead the team in rushing, but his strong defensive play also makes him a key factor on both sides of the ball. With Rosa’s leadership, Wilcox has been able to maintain its dominant position in the rushing game and provide crucial defensive plays.
Record Breakdown
In terms of overall record, Palma has had a strong season, finishing 7-5, but it struggled at times within its league with a 2-4 league record. However, they have performed well in non-league play, posting a 3-1 record. Wilcox, with its 10-2 record, has been dominant, particularly in league play, where it posted a 5-0 record. Their performance on the road has also been impressive, with a 5-0 away record, showing their ability to perform in hostile environments.
The common opponents between these two teams have all been victories, with both teams beating Hollister, Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, and Menlo School, which adds an interesting element of similarity to their performance.
Final Thoughts
This game will likely come down to which team can dominate the ground game and control the clock. Palma has a strong running game led by Eli Dukes, while Wilcox is even more potent on the ground with Brayden Rosa. Defensively, Wilcox has shown the ability to generate pressure and make key tackles, which could be crucial in limiting Dukes’ impact.
For Palma, their success will depend on whether they can limit Wilcox’s rushing attack while still maintaining their own offensive efficiency. If Palma can disrupt Wilcox’s running game and force them into passing situations, it could create opportunities to control the pace.
Wilcox, on the other hand, will aim to continue its dominance on the ground and take advantage of its balanced offense to wear down Palma’s defense. With their strong record and ability to perform both at home and on the road, Wilcox enters this matchup as the slight favorite, but Palma’s resilient running game and playmaking ability could keep the game close.
Both teams have been successful this season and will be looking to take the next step toward a potential championship. The battle of the running backs and defensive strategies will be key in determining which team advances.
