On October 4, 2024, at 12:00 AM GMT+6, high school football fans are in for a thrilling matchup between two strong programs—Milan Big Reds and the Carlson Marauders. The game, set to take place in Milan, Michigan, brings together two teams with a rich football tradition, both eager to assert their dominance and make a statement as the season progresses. With playoff implications looming and team pride on the line, this showdown is a must-watch for anyone who follows high school football.
Both Milan and Carlson have enjoyed successful seasons so far, with each team boasting a number of standout players and impressive victories. With high stakes, intense competition, and a packed stadium, fans can expect a game filled with electrifying plays and tactical battles.
If you’re looking to catch all the action live, the game will be available for streaming on the NFHS Network, giving football fans the chance to follow this epic showdown. In this comprehensive article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Milan vs. Carlson game: how to watch, key players to keep an eye on, a preview of both teams, matchups to focus on, odds, and our final prediction.
How to Watch Milan vs. Carlson High School Football Game
- Date: October 4, 2024
- Time: 12:00 AM GMT+6
- Location: Milan High School Stadium, Milan, Michigan
- Broadcast: NFHS Network
- Streaming: Available via the NFHS Network (subscription required)
For those who can’t attend the game in person, the NFHS Network will provide live streaming coverage. Simply visit the NFHS Network website or use their app to watch the game on any compatible device. The NFHS Network requires a subscription, but it’s a fantastic way to keep up with all the high school football action if you can’t be there in person. Make sure you’re ready at 12:00 AM GMT+6 for kickoff.
Team Overview: Milan Big Reds
The Milan Big Reds have been one of the most consistent programs in Michigan high school football over the past several years. Known for their physicality and discipline, Milan brings a well-rounded approach to the field, excelling on both sides of the ball. Under head coach Steven Erickson, the Big Reds have developed a winning culture, and this season is no exception as they look to solidify their playoff position with a key victory over Carlson.
Offense
Milan’s offensive attack is led by senior quarterback Ethan Williams, who has been a steady presence for the team. Williams has shown the ability to manage the game effectively while also making big plays when needed. This season, he has thrown for over 1,800 yards and 17 touchdowns, with only a few interceptions. His poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays with his legs makes him a dual-threat quarterback that Carlson will need to be prepared for.
One of the biggest weapons in Milan’s arsenal is junior running back Isaac Carter, who has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. Carter is a tough, downhill runner who thrives in between the tackles but also possesses the speed to break long runs on the outside. He’s a workhorse back who rarely goes down on first contact, and his ability to control the tempo of the game by grinding out tough yards will be crucial against a tough Carlson defense.
On the outside, senior wide receiver Luke Thompson has been the go-to target for Williams. Thompson has accumulated over 800 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns this season, using his size and speed to create mismatches against opposing defensive backs. His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field vertically will be a key factor in Milan’s offensive game plan. Additionally, junior wideout Jordan Wells provides a reliable secondary option, contributing 500 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns this season.
The offensive line, anchored by senior tackle Marcus Reed, has been a solid unit all year, paving the way for Carter’s rushing success and keeping Williams protected. Reed and his fellow linemen will face a tough challenge in containing Carlson’s pass rush, but if they can win the battle in the trenches, Milan’s offense will be hard to stop.
Defense
Defensively, the Big Reds have been just as formidable. They’ve allowed an average of only 13 points per game this season, thanks to a strong defensive front and disciplined secondary play. Milan’s defense is led by senior linebacker Tyler James, a tackling machine who has accumulated 85 tackles and 4 sacks on the season. James is the heart of the defense and his ability to read plays and make stops at the line of scrimmage will be critical in shutting down Carlson’s run game.
The defensive line, featuring junior defensive end Kyle Anderson, has been effective at putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stopping the run. Anderson, who leads the team with 8 sacks, will need to continue his disruptive play against a Carlson offensive line that prides itself on physicality.
In the secondary, senior cornerback Jalen Ross and sophomore safety Evan Carter provide excellent coverage on the back end. Ross, with 4 interceptions on the year, is known for his ability to shut down opposing receivers, while Carter brings a physical presence and solid tackling ability to the secondary. Their ability to contain Carlson’s passing attack and limit big plays will be key to Milan’s defensive success.
Team Overview: Carlson Marauders
The Carlson Marauders have built a reputation as one of the toughest teams in their division, consistently fielding competitive teams with a smash-mouth style of football. Under the leadership of head coach Michael Johnson, the Marauders have enjoyed a solid season and come into this game with confidence, knowing that a victory over Milan would give them a major boost in their playoff aspirations.
Offense
Carlson’s offense is centered around their powerful running game, led by senior running back Alex Wilson, who has rushed for over 1,400 yards and 17 touchdowns this season. Wilson is a bruising runner who excels in short-yardage situations and has the ability to wear down opposing defenses over the course of a game. His physical running style, combined with his vision and ability to break tackles, makes him one of the most dangerous running backs in the state.
At quarterback, sophomore Ryan Matthews has shown great promise in his first year as the starter. Matthews has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns, with 5 interceptions. While he is still developing as a passer, Matthews has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his ability to make plays on the run. His mobility and ability to extend plays outside the pocket will be important against Milan’s aggressive pass rush.
Carlson’s receiving corps is led by senior wide receiver Dylan Parker, who has been Matthews’ favorite target this season. Parker has racked up 700 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns, using his speed and precise route-running to get open against opposing defenses. Junior wide receiver Chris Allen provides a solid second option in the passing game, with 400 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns.
The Marauders’ offensive line, anchored by senior guard Liam Edwards, has been a strength of the team all season. Edwards is a dominant force in both run blocking and pass protection, and his leadership has been key to Carlson’s offensive success. The offensive line’s ability to open up running lanes for Wilson and give Matthews time to throw will be critical against a tough Milan defense.
Defense
Carlson’s defense, like their offense, is built around physicality and discipline. The Marauders have allowed an average of 16 points per game this season, and their ability to stop the run has been a key factor in their success. Senior linebacker Jack Taylor is the leader of the defense, with 90 tackles and 3 sacks on the season. Taylor’s ability to diagnose plays and make tackles in space will be crucial in containing Milan’s explosive offense.
The defensive line, led by senior defensive tackle Eric Mitchell, has been stout against the run, consistently winning battles at the line of scrimmage. Mitchell, with 7 sacks on the year, is a disruptive force who will need to get pressure on Milan’s quarterback and limit the effectiveness of their running game.
In the secondary, junior cornerback Brandon Lee and senior safety Cameron Davis have been solid in coverage. Lee, with 3 interceptions on the season, is a lockdown corner who will likely be tasked with covering Milan’s top receiver, Luke Thompson. Davis, a hard-hitting safety, excels in run support and will be key in preventing Milan from breaking off big plays in the passing game.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Isaac Carter (Milan RB) vs. Carlson’s Front Seven
Isaac Carter has been the engine that drives Milan’s offense, and his ability to gain yards on the ground will be critical in this matchup. Carlson’s front seven, led by Jack Taylor and Eric Mitchell, will need to be at their best to contain Carter and force Milan into passing situations. If Carter can get going early, Milan will be able to control the tempo of the game and wear down Carlson’s defense.
2. Alex Wilson (Carlson RB) vs. Milan’s Run Defense
Similarly, Alex Wilson is the key to Carlson’s offensive success. Milan’s defense, particularly their linebackers and defensive line, will need to focus on stopping Wilson and preventing him from gaining momentum. If Milan can shut down Carlson’s running game, they’ll put pressure on Ryan Matthews to make plays through the air, which could lead to mistakes and turnovers.
3. Ethan Williams (Milan QB) vs. Carlson’s Pass Defense
Ethan Williams has been an efficient and effective quarterback for Milan this season, but he’ll face a tough test against a solid Carlson secondary. Brandon Lee and Cameron Davis will need to be sharp in coverage to prevent Williams from finding his favorite targets, Luke Thompson and Jordan Wells. If Carlson can limit Milan’s passing attack, they’ll have a much better chance of keeping the game close.
Odds and Prediction
- Milan: -6.5
- Carlson: +6.5
The odds favor Milan in this matchup, reflecting their balanced offense and strong defense. However, Carlson is more than capable of pulling off the upset, especially if Alex Wilson can take control of the game and the defense can contain Milan’s playmakers.
Prediction: Milan 28, Carlson 21
In what should be a closely contested game, we predict that the Milan Big Reds will come out on top against the Carlson Marauders. Milan’s balanced offensive attack, led by Ethan Williams and Isaac Carter, combined with their stout defense, gives them the edge in this matchup. While Carlson’s Alex Wilson will likely have a strong game, Milan’s ability to make plays on both sides of the ball should ultimately lead them to victory.
The high school football matchup between Milan and Carlson is shaping up to be an exciting and hard-fought battle. Both teams have plenty of talent and the desire to come away with a crucial victory as the season heads into its final stages. Be sure to tune in to the NFHS Network on October 4, 2024, at 12:00 AM GMT+6 to watch all the action live!
