Lebanon vs. Helias High School Football Game Preview
Game Details:
- Matchup: Lebanon Yellowjackets vs. Helias Crusaders
- Date: Friday, November 15
- Time: 7:00 p.m. CST
- Location: Helias High School, Jefferson City, MO
- Watch: Live on NFHS Network
How to Watch
This game will be available live through the NFHS Network. Fans who can’t make it to the stadium can catch every play from home by subscribing to the NFHS Network, which offers streaming access to a wide array of high school sports.
Team Overview
Lebanon Yellowjackets
- Season Record: 9-1
- Head Coach: Will Christian
- Key Players: QB Camden Hough, RB Gavin Smith, LB/WR Ethan Bunch
- Strengths: Powerful running game, disciplined defense, excellent time management
- Challenges: Passing game consistency, depth in secondary
Lebanon’s season has been defined by grit and determination, led by Coach Will Christian’s structured approach to offense and defense. With a strong run-heavy offense featuring Gavin Smith, the Yellowjackets excel at controlling the clock and pacing the game. Quarterback Camden Hough’s ability to make the right decisions in key moments has also bolstered Lebanon’s offense, which prioritizes efficiency and physicality. Lebanon’s defense, highlighted by standout Ethan Bunch, is known for stopping high-octane offenses by pressuring quarterbacks and closing off running lanes.
Helias Crusaders
- Season Record: 10-0
- Head Coach: Chris Hentges
- Key Players: QB Grant Meers, WR/RB Aidan Mahaney, LB Carson Scott
- Strengths: Versatile offense, home-field advantage, experienced roster
- Challenges: Managing turnovers, depth on the offensive line
Helias enters the game with an undefeated record and a reputation for explosive offense and a versatile defensive strategy. Coach Chris Hentges has crafted a high-scoring offense that keeps opponents on their heels, led by quarterback Grant Meers, who has been reliable both in the air and on the ground. Aidan Mahaney provides a dual-threat as both a receiver and rusher, often drawing double coverage. Defensively, linebacker Carson Scott anchors the Crusaders, with the unit showing strong performance across both run and pass defense.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Lebanon’s Rushing Offense vs. Helias’s Defensive Line Lebanon’s offense leans on their run game, primarily driven by Gavin Smith. Helias will need to control the line of scrimmage to slow down Lebanon’s clock management and limit their scoring opportunities.
- Helias Passing Game vs. Lebanon’s Secondary Grant Meers and his receivers have been highly productive this season. Lebanon’s secondary will face a serious test in containing Meers and forcing Helias to become one-dimensional.
- Turnover Battle Both teams have efficient offenses but can be susceptible to turnovers under pressure. The team that manages to win the turnover battle will likely have a significant edge in this matchup.
- Special Teams Play With the game expected to be close, special teams could play a critical role. Field position, punting, and kick return coverage will be essential for both teams.
Season Recaps and Team Statistics
Lebanon Yellowjackets
- Passing Yards per Game: 120
- Rushing Yards per Game: 250
- Points per Game: 30
- Points Allowed per Game: 15
Lebanon’s statistics highlight their strength on the ground and their defensive resilience. They excel at controlling the tempo, wearing down opposing defenses, and reducing opponents’ scoring opportunities.
Helias Crusaders
- Passing Yards per Game: 220
- Rushing Yards per Game: 180
- Points per Game: 35
- Points Allowed per Game: 14
Helias boasts a more balanced offensive attack, with passing and rushing yards nearly equal. Their ability to adapt their playstyle based on the opponent makes them difficult to defend, and their defense has consistently limited opponents’ scoring.
Players to Watch
- Camden Hough (Lebanon QB): Hough’s efficiency and calm decision-making will be critical, especially if Helias puts pressure on the passing game.
- Gavin Smith (Lebanon RB): Known for his power and consistency, Smith is the backbone of Lebanon’s offense and will be crucial in setting the tone.
- Grant Meers (Helias QB): Meers’ leadership and dual-threat ability make him a dynamic playmaker. His performance will dictate much of Helias’ offensive success.
- Aidan Mahaney (Helias WR/RB): Mahaney’s versatility will require Lebanon’s defense to keep close tabs on him, as he can be a game-changer with his speed.
- Carson Scott (Helias LB): Scott’s ability to read plays and control the defense will be essential in stopping Lebanon’s potent ground attack.
Game Prediction and Odds
- Odds: Helias holds a slight edge as the undefeated home team.
- Prediction: Helias 31, Lebanon 27
This close prediction reflects Helias’s strong performance throughout the season but acknowledges Lebanon’s potential to control the game with their rushing offense. In a game likely to be decided in the final minutes, Helias’ home-field advantage may be the deciding factor.
Keys to Victory
- For Lebanon:
- Dominate Time of Possession: Keep the ball in their hands to limit Helias’ offensive opportunities.
- Strong Defensive Pressure: Stopping Meers from establishing a passing rhythm will be critical to Lebanon’s strategy.
- Execute on Special Teams: Field position and effective kicking could be the difference.
- For Helias:
- Use Versatile Play Calls: Mixing in different formations and plays to keep Lebanon’s defense guessing will be key.
- Home-Field Momentum: The crowd can help energize Helias, especially in tight moments.
- Limit Turnovers: Helias’s explosive offense will need to remain steady to avoid giving Lebanon any easy chances.
Game Scenarios
- Close Defensive Struggle
If both defenses hold strong, this game may see low scoring, with possessions dictated by field position and time management. - Helias Offensive Showdown
Helias could attempt to overwhelm Lebanon’s secondary early, forcing Lebanon into a more aggressive offensive posture. - Last-Minute Decision
With both teams closely matched, this game could go down to a final drive, where clutch plays from either side could lead to victory.
With playoff implications and local pride on the line, Lebanon vs. Helias is shaping up to be one of the most exciting games of the season. Both teams bring distinct strengths to the field, and fans can expect a game filled with intense play and high stakes. The NFHS Network provides a great option for those wanting to catch the action live, ensuring everyone has a chance to witness this anticipated high school football showdown.
This Friday night contest will likely come down to discipline, focus, and which team can stay sharp under pressure. Whether you’re watching in person or streaming, it promises to be a thrilling clash of talent, strategy, and determination.
