For a high-stakes matchup between the Lewisburg Patriots and the Tupelo Golden Wave, let’s dive into all the details fans need to know. This showdown on November 15 promises to bring exciting high school football action to viewers.
Lewisburg vs. Tupelo High School Football Game Preview
Game Details:
- Matchup: Lewisburg Patriots vs. Tupelo Golden Wave
- Date: Friday, November 15
- Time: 7:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Tupelo High School, Tupelo, MS
- Watch: Live on NFHS Network
How to Watch
Fans can watch the game live on the NFHS Network, a dedicated service for high school sports coverage across the country. This allows anyone with a subscription to tune in and enjoy the game from home, making it accessible even for those unable to attend in person.
Team Overview
Lewisburg Patriots
- Season Record: 6-4
- Head Coach: Matt Geary
- Key Players: QB Tyler Bradley, RB Aaron Williams, LB Jack Turner
- Strengths: Resilient defense, balanced offense, effective special teams
- Challenges: Consistency in the passing game, depth in key positions
The Lewisburg Patriots have had a solid season, thanks in large part to their disciplined defense and balanced offensive strategies. Head coach Matt Geary has developed a resilient squad that isn’t afraid to grind out tough wins. Quarterback Tyler Bradley brings a calm presence to the offense, while Aaron Williams leads the ground game with his quick cuts and breakaway speed. Defensively, linebacker Jack Turner is a standout, constantly pushing his unit to get critical stops.
Tupelo Golden Wave
- Season Record: 9-1
- Head Coach: Ty Hardin
- Key Players: QB Cade Allen, WR Malik Johnson, DE James Fields
- Strengths: Explosive passing game, home-field advantage, aggressive defense
- Challenges: Managing penalties, depth on the offensive line
Tupelo has been dominant all season, boasting a nearly perfect record under head coach Ty Hardin. The Golden Wave has built its reputation around a high-octane offense led by quarterback Cade Allen, who has consistently delivered big plays downfield. Wide receiver Malik Johnson is one of his primary targets, often finding ways to outmaneuver defenders and create scoring opportunities. Defensively, James Fields anchors the line, bringing a strong pass-rushing presence that could spell trouble for the Patriots.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Tyler Bradley (Lewisburg QB) vs. Tupelo’s Secondary Bradley will need to navigate a talented and aggressive Tupelo secondary that’s known for making big plays. His ability to make quick, accurate reads under pressure will be essential for Lewisburg.
- Aaron Williams (Lewisburg RB) vs. Tupelo’s Run Defense If Williams can establish a steady ground game early, it will give the Patriots a chance to control the clock and limit Tupelo’s offensive possessions. The Golden Wave’s defense will be focused on containing him and forcing Lewisburg into third-and-long situations.
- Cade Allen (Tupelo QB) vs. Lewisburg’s Linebackers Allen’s passing efficiency has been a key asset for Tupelo this season, but he’ll face a tough challenge from a disciplined Lewisburg linebacker corps, led by Turner. If they can disrupt Allen’s rhythm, it could limit Tupelo’s ability to score quickly.
- Special Teams Impact Both teams are known for using special teams to gain field position advantages. This area could play a decisive role, especially if the game comes down to a single possession.
Season Recaps and Team Statistics
Lewisburg Patriots
- Passing Yards per Game: 150
- Rushing Yards per Game: 180
- Points per Game: 22
- Points Allowed per Game: 17
Lewisburg’s balanced offensive attack has allowed them to stay competitive in games throughout the season. Their defense has also held opponents to low scoring, allowing them to win close games with timely stops. Their ability to adapt on both offense and defense has been one of their key strengths.
Tupelo Golden Wave
- Passing Yards per Game: 280
- Rushing Yards per Game: 150
- Points per Game: 35
- Points Allowed per Game: 14
Tupelo’s explosive offense, especially their passing game, has been one of the main reasons for their success this season. The Golden Wave has regularly put up impressive scores, often putting games out of reach by halftime. Their defense has also been solid, frequently disrupting opposing offenses and creating opportunities for their own offense.
Players to Watch
- Tyler Bradley (Lewisburg QB): Bradley’s decision-making and accuracy will be key to Lewisburg’s offensive game plan, particularly in limiting turnovers.
- Aaron Williams (Lewisburg RB): Williams’s ability to grind out yards on the ground will be critical, especially if he can break through the initial line of defense and reach the secondary.
- Cade Allen (Tupelo QB): Allen’s skill as a passer and leader will be essential for Tupelo’s success. His connection with Malik Johnson has been a driving force in their offense.
- Malik Johnson (Tupelo WR): Known for his speed and route-running, Johnson can turn short passes into big gains, making him a key target in Tupelo’s passing attack.
- James Fields (Tupelo DE): Fields’s ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the run game could be a deciding factor, particularly if he can keep Lewisburg’s offense off-balance.
Game Prediction and Odds
- Odds: Tupelo enters as the favorite due to their home-field advantage and more potent offense.
- Prediction: Tupelo 28, Lewisburg 17
While Lewisburg has the potential to keep this game close, Tupelo’s offensive firepower and defensive strength may prove to be too much for the Patriots to overcome. Expect the Golden Wave to pull away in the second half.
Keys to Victory
- For Lewisburg Patriots:
- Control the Clock: By relying on a ground-heavy game plan, Lewisburg can aim to limit Tupelo’s offensive opportunities.
- Limit Big Plays: The Patriots’ defense will need to be disciplined in coverage to prevent the Golden Wave from scoring quickly.
- Efficient Passing: Bradley will need to avoid turnovers and make high-percentage throws to sustain drives and keep the offense on the field.
- For Tupelo Golden Wave:
- Start Fast: If Tupelo can score early, they could force Lewisburg into a more pass-heavy game plan that plays into Tupelo’s defensive strengths.
- Pressure the Quarterback: Applying pressure to Bradley will disrupt Lewisburg’s offense and create turnover opportunities.
- Capitalize on Home-Field Advantage: With the support of their home crowd, Tupelo can use their momentum to maintain control of the game.
Game Scenarios
- Lewisburg Controls the Tempo
If Lewisburg’s ground game can keep them in control, it could lead to a low-scoring game where the Patriots grind down the clock and keep the game close until the end. - Tupelo’s Passing Game Dominates
Should Allen and Johnson find an early rhythm, Tupelo could put the game out of reach by halftime, forcing Lewisburg to abandon their running game. - Special Teams Game-Changer
With evenly matched teams, special teams could play a pivotal role. A blocked field goal, long punt return, or unexpected onside kick could tilt the game’s outcome.
This high-stakes game between the Lewisburg Patriots and the Tupelo Golden Wave has all the makings of a classic Friday night showdown. With Lewisburg’s focus on ball control and Tupelo’s explosive offensive style, this clash of contrasting play styles should provide fans with an exciting matchup. Both teams bring strong talent and a competitive drive, which should make for an exciting atmosphere under the lights.
Fans won’t want to miss any of the action, and thanks to the NFHS Network, the game will be accessible for all. Whether attending in person or watching from home, this is one high school football game you won’t want to miss.
