The Fort Meade varsity football team (Fort Meade, FL) will host a home playoff game against Wildwood (FL) tonight at 7:00 PM at Fort Meade High School. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the Rural Football Division B.

Wildwood vs Fort Meade High School Football Game Info:

What: Florida High School Football
Who: Wildwood vs Fort Meade
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:00pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – FHSAA Rural Football Division B
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Wildwood vs Fort Meade

Tonight, the Fort Meade Miners (4-7) host the Wildwood Wildcats (5-6) in a high-stakes playoff matchup as part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships in the Rural Division B. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM at Fort Meade High School, where both teams will look to advance in their quest for the championship. Here’s a closer look at their season performances, stats, and what to expect in this exciting showdown.

Team Profiles and Season Overview

Wildwood Wildcats (5-6)

• State Rank: 313 | Class Rank: 11
• Record Breakdown:
  • Overall: 5-6
  • Home/Away/Neutral: 1-3 (home), 2-3 (away), 2-0 (neutral)
  • Points For (PF): 238 | Points Against (PA): 294
• Playoff Run: Wildwood has been solid in playoff games, with a 2-0 record in neutral-site matchups. The Wildcats rely on quarterback Taylor Keiler, who averages 124.0 passing yards per game, and receiver Tyrese Keiler, contributing 42.6 receiving yards per game.

Fort Meade Miners (4-7)

• State Rank: 334 | Class Rank: 15
• Record Breakdown:
  • Overall: 4-7
  • District Record: 0-1
  • Home/Away/Neutral: 0-4 (home), 2-3 (away), 2-0 (neutral)
  • Points For (PF): 248 | Points Against (PA): 235
• Playoff Run: Despite a challenging season, the Miners are also 2-0 in playoff games and boast a higher average scoring rate than Wildwood. Quarterback Jayden McCutchen leads the charge with an impressive 235.9 passing yards per game, supported by receiver Omari Russell, who averages 98.0 receiving yards per game.

Key Statistical Comparisons

Fort Meade has an edge in total offensive production, particularly through the air, while Wildwood holds a slight advantage in the rushing game. On defense, the Miners are significantly more active, averaging 62.5 tackles per game compared to Wildwood’s 37.9.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Quarterback Showdown:
  • Wildwood: Taylor Keiler (124.0 passing yards/game)
  • Fort Meade: Jayden McCutchen (235.9 passing yards/game)
    McCutchen’s higher passing output gives the Miners an advantage in spreading the field, but Keiler’s efficient play could keep the Wildcats competitive.
• Defensive Leaders:
  • Wildwood: Chaz Blocker (5.7 tackles/game)
  • Fort Meade: Mehki Berrien (13.9 tackles/game)
    Berrien’s dominance on defense will be crucial for Fort Meade, as his tackling prowess could disrupt Wildwood’s offensive rhythm.
• Receiving Threats:
  • Wildwood: Tyrese Keiler (42.6 receiving yards/game)
  • Fort Meade: Omari Russell (98.0 receiving yards/game)
    Russell’s big-play ability gives Fort Meade a game-changing weapon in their passing attack.

Common Opponent Analysis

Both teams faced Hardee during the regular season with contrasting results. Wildwood secured a decisive 28-7 victory, while Fort Meade suffered a narrow 28-20 loss. This suggests Wildwood has the potential to match up well against Fort Meade’s defense.

Game Outlook

The playoff atmosphere adds intensity to this matchup between two underdog teams fighting for a deeper run in the Rural Division B bracket. Fort Meade’s home-field disadvantage (0-4 at home this season) could play a factor, but their superior passing game and defensive tackling give them an edge. Wildwood, on the other hand, brings momentum from their strong playoff performances and a balanced offensive approach.

Expect a close, hard-fought game with both teams leaving everything on the field.

Kickoff: Tonight, 7:00 PM | Location: Fort Meade High School