High school football reaches a fever pitch in early October, and the matchup between the Oxford Wildcats and Rochester Adams Highlanders promises to be one of the most exciting games of the season. As we move closer to the playoffs, every game matters, and this conference rivalry will be no different. Set for October 4, 2024, this battle is packed with significance, especially with both teams vying for conference supremacy.
Both Oxford and Rochester Adams have storied football traditions, and this year’s matchup promises to add another chapter to their competitive history. The Wildcats, known for their hard-nosed play, will face off against the dynamic Highlanders in what could be a make-or-break game for both programs’ postseason hopes.
This comprehensive preview will cover everything you need to know about the game, including how to watch live on NFHS Network, a breakdown of each team, player matchups, historical context, expert predictions, and betting odds.
How to Watch the Game
The excitement of high school football is now easier to access than ever. Fans can tune in live via NFHS Network, the official broadcast partner for many high school sporting events across the country. Here’s how you can catch all the action:
- Visit NFHS Network: Head to NFHS Network from any browser.
- Create an Account: Sign up for an account if you don’t already have one. NFHS Network offers both monthly and annual subscriptions.
- Search for the Game: Type in “Oxford vs. Rochester Adams” in the search bar or use the date to find the correct game listing.
- Watch Live: Once the game appears, click the link to start watching live on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or even your smart TV.
For those unable to catch the game live, NFHS Network also offers the ability to watch games on demand after they’ve concluded, so fans won’t have to miss a single moment of this exciting showdown.
Team Previews
Oxford Wildcats
The Oxford Wildcats have built a reputation as a gritty, resilient team over the years. Known for their tough defense and a disciplined approach to the game, the Wildcats are well-coached under Head Coach Zach Line, a former NFL player. This year, Oxford has put together a solid campaign, with a mix of veteran leadership and emerging young talent that makes them a formidable opponent.
Offensive Overview
Oxford’s offense may not be the flashiest in the league, but it’s effective. Built around a strong running game, the Wildcats rely on controlling the tempo of the game and wearing down their opponents with physical play. Their starting quarterback, Tyler Collins, is a game manager, and his stats show that he’s capable of making the smart plays necessary to move the chains:
- Passing Yards: 1,200
- Touchdowns: 14
- Interceptions: 5
- Completion Percentage: 62%
Collins’ strength lies in his ability to execute the game plan efficiently. He doesn’t often take deep shots down the field, but his accuracy in short and intermediate passes helps keep the offense on schedule. However, the heart of Oxford’s offense is their running back, Blake Johnson. Johnson’s numbers highlight his importance to the team’s offensive strategy:
- Rushing Yards: 1,150
- Touchdowns: 13
- Yards per Carry: 5.9
Johnson has been a workhorse for the Wildcats, and his combination of speed and power makes him one of the most dangerous running backs in the conference. He’s not just a between-the-tackles runner; his ability to break off long runs in space forces defenses to respect him at all times.
The Wildcats’ receiving corps, led by Michael Tate and Jordan Sanders, has stepped up in recent weeks. While Oxford doesn’t rely heavily on the passing game, they’ve shown the ability to strike through the air when defenses stack the box against Johnson. Tate leads the team with 450 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, while Sanders has provided valuable production with 350 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Defensive Overview
Oxford’s defense is the backbone of their team. They pride themselves on being a tough, physical unit that makes life difficult for opposing offenses. Their defense, which is allowing an average of 16 points per game, is led by standout linebacker Derrick Lewis. Lewis, a senior captain, is the heart and soul of the defense:
- Tackles: 85
- Tackles for Loss: 12
- Sacks: 4
Lewis has been a force against the run, and his ability to diagnose plays quickly allows him to make game-changing tackles. He’s supported by defensive linemen Jake Matthews and Cameron Wright, who have combined for 10 sacks on the season, constantly pressuring opposing quarterbacks and disrupting the line of scrimmage.
In the secondary, Oxford boasts Bryce Morgan and Isaiah Hill, who have tallied 5 interceptions combined. The Wildcats’ secondary has been a ball-hawking unit, and their ability to create turnovers could prove pivotal against Rochester Adams’ passing attack.
Rochester Adams Highlanders
The Rochester Adams Highlanders are one of the top teams in the state of Michigan this year, known for their explosive offense and well-rounded defense. Under the leadership of Head Coach Tony Patritto, Rochester Adams has consistently produced strong teams that compete deep into the postseason. This year, they have their sights set on making another deep playoff run, and a victory over Oxford could help them lock up a better seed.
Offensive Overview
Rochester Adams’ offense is led by their star quarterback, Ethan Clark, who has been nothing short of spectacular this season. Clark’s ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs makes him one of the most dynamic players in the state. His season stats are eye-popping:
- Passing Yards: 2,100
- Touchdowns: 28
- Interceptions: 6
- Completion Percentage: 67%
- Rushing Yards: 500
- Rushing Touchdowns: 7
Clark’s dual-threat capability allows Rochester Adams to keep defenses off-balance. He can beat teams from the pocket with precision passing, but if defenses try to apply too much pressure, he’s quick enough to escape and gain significant yardage on the ground.
The Highlanders have an array of weapons in their receiving corps, headlined by Ryan Williams and Noah Greene. Williams has racked up 900 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, while Greene has added 750 yards and 10 touchdowns. These two provide big-play ability and have consistently found ways to get open downfield.
On the ground, Tanner Hudson has complemented Clark’s passing attack with 850 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns. While the offense leans on Clark’s arm, Hudson’s presence in the backfield ensures that the Highlanders remain balanced.
Defensive Overview
Rochester Adams’ defense is solid across the board, allowing just 14 points per game on average. The defense is anchored by defensive lineman Jalen Reed, who has registered 8 sacks on the year, frequently wreaking havoc in the backfield. Reed’s dominance up front sets the tone for the entire defense, as he demands double teams on nearly every play.
Linebacker Trevor Davis has been the Highlanders’ top tackler, amassing 80 tackles and 10 tackles for loss. Davis’ versatility allows him to cover running backs in the passing game while also being an effective blitzer. He’s the leader of the defense and sets the tempo for the entire unit.
In the secondary, Cameron Thomas and Dylan Reeves have combined for 6 interceptions and have been instrumental in shutting down opposing wide receivers. Rochester Adams’ ability to defend both the run and the pass has made them one of the most difficult teams to score against in the state.
Key Matchups
Ethan Clark (QB, Rochester Adams) vs. Oxford Defense
One of the most critical matchups in this game will be Rochester Adams’ dual-threat quarterback, Ethan Clark, against Oxford’s defense. Clark’s ability to throw deep or take off running when the pocket collapses makes him a nightmare to defend. Oxford’s linebackers, particularly Derrick Lewis, will need to keep him contained and avoid giving up big plays on scrambles.
Blake Johnson (RB, Oxford) vs. Rochester Adams Front Seven
Oxford’s offensive success starts with Blake Johnson’s ability to gain yards on the ground. If Johnson can establish the run and control the pace of the game, Oxford will have a chance to keep Rochester Adams’ high-powered offense off the field. Rochester Adams’ front seven, led by Jalen Reed and Trevor Davis, will need to focus on stuffing the run early and forcing Oxford into passing situations.
Ryan Williams (WR, Rochester Adams) vs. Oxford Secondary
Ryan Williams has been a game-changer for Rochester Adams, and his ability to make big plays down the field will be a
