The Wilson (West Lawn, PA) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Harrisburg (PA) today at 1 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 6A tournament.

Wilson vs Harrisburg Football Game Info:

What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Wilson vs Harrisburg
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 1 PM
Bracket: 2024 PIAA Football Championship – 6A
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Game preview: Wilson vs Harrisburg

The stage is set for an exciting showdown in the 2024 PIAA 4A Football Championship, where the Harrisburg Cougars (10-2) will face off against the Wilson Bulldogs (11-1) for a chance to claim the title. Both teams have been dominant throughout the season, showcasing high-powered offenses and formidable defenses, setting up a thrilling match-up.

Harrisburg Cougars (10-2)

The Harrisburg Cougars have been a force to reckon with this season. With a 10-2 overall record and a conference mark of 8-1, they’ve proven to be one of the most well-rounded teams in the state. Their offense averages 30.7 points per game, with impressive scoring consistency across all four quarters, particularly in the second half.

Key players for Harrisburg include running back Messiah Mickens, who leads the team with 90.9 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Jaiyon Lewis, who has racked up 137.2 passing yards per game. In addition, Elias Coke provides a reliable receiving threat, averaging 60.3 yards per game. The Cougars’ defense, led by Rick Brown with 9.7 tackles per game, will need to bring their A-game to slow down Wilson’s potent offense.

Wilson Bulldogs (11-1)

Wilson enters the championship with an outstanding 11-1 record, capped by an undefeated 7-0 conference run. Their high-scoring offense averages 35.8 points per game, with their most notable performance in the first half, where they put up 24.6 points on average. With a balanced attack that includes a strong rushing game (206.0 yards per game) and an effective passing game (181.1 yards per game), the Bulldogs are a tough opponent for any defense.

Quarterback Madyx Gruber has been stellar, leading Wilson with 157.1 passing yards per game, while running back Correll Akings has been the cornerstone of their ground game, averaging 88.3 yards per game. On the defensive side, Wilson has yet to be tested by an offense as potent as Harrisburg’s, but with playmakers like Michael Glover and a solid team effort, they’ll be ready for the challenge.

Common Opponents and Strength of Schedule

Both teams share a common opponent in Manheim Township, and both came out victorious. Harrisburg defeated Manheim Township 35-14 on the road, while Wilson won 34-16 at home. This indicates that both teams are capable of handling tough competition and should be well-prepared for their respective battles.

Key Stats Comparison

• Scoring: Harrisburg averages 30.7 points per game, while Wilson puts up 35.8. Expect a high-scoring game with both offenses firing on all cylinders.
• Rushing: Harrisburg averages 204.2 rushing yards per game, while Wilson edges them out with 206.0.
• Passing: Wilson has the advantage in passing yards with 181.1 per game, compared to Harrisburg’s 143.9.
• Total Yards: Wilson also leads in total yards per game with 387.1, compared to Harrisburg’s 348.1.

The difference in yardage suggests that Wilson’s offense has been more efficient in racking up yards, but Harrisburg has proven they can be explosive when needed.

Players to Watch

For Harrisburg, Messiah Mickens is the player to watch on offense. His ability to break through defensive lines and churn out big gains on the ground will be key. On defense, Rick Brown will play a crucial role in slowing down Wilson’s high-powered offense.

Wilson’s Madyx Gruber is a dual threat with his passing ability, and running back Correll Akings will be a key to keeping Harrisburg’s defense on its toes. Michael Glover’s tackling ability will also be critical to containing Harrisburg’s playmakers.

Conclusion

This PIAA 4A Football Championship promises to be a classic clash between two juggernauts. Harrisburg’s balance and ability to perform under pressure will be tested by Wilson’s explosive offense and efficient game plan. With both teams in excellent form and boasting standout players, fans can expect an electric contest that will likely come down to the final moments. As the Cougars face the Bulldogs, one team will leave the field as champions—who will it be? The countdown to kickoff begins!