On September 27, 2024, high school football fans will be treated to an exciting clash as Monroe High School takes on Dougherty Comprehensive High School. This matchup is set to be broadcast live on the NFHS Network at 1:00 AM GMT+6, allowing fans from all over to tune in and watch these two powerhouse programs battle it out under the Friday night lights.

High school football is a revered tradition, and matchups like these offer a glimpse into the future stars of the sport. Monroe and Dougherty Comp. both have rich football histories, and their 2024 teams are filled with talented players, making this an eagerly anticipated contest. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the game, including how to watch it, a detailed preview of the teams and their key players, speculative odds, predictions, and what to expect on game day.

How to Watch Monroe vs. Dougherty Comp. Football Game

Date: September 27, 2024

Time: 1:00 AM GMT+6

Venue: Monroe High School Stadium

Streaming: Live on NFHS Network

To watch the game live, you can tune into the NFHS Network, which broadcasts high school sports across the nation. The platform allows fans to watch the game live or on-demand after it has concluded. You can access the NFHS Network by subscribing to their streaming service, which can be viewed on various devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers.

Preview: Monroe vs. Dougherty Comp.

The Monroe Tornadoes and the Dougherty Trojans are two teams with a long-standing rivalry and a rich football history. Both schools hail from the state of Georgia, where high school football is a significant part of the local culture. Over the years, Monroe and Dougherty Comp. have developed a competitive rivalry that always delivers intense, hard-fought games.

Monroe High School Tornadoes

Monroe enters the 2024 season with high expectations. Under head coach Marcus Jones, the Tornadoes have established themselves as one of the premier football programs in the region. Known for their tough defense and disciplined style of play, Monroe’s team is built around a strong core of seniors who have gained valuable experience over the past few seasons.

Key Strengths:

• Defense: The Tornadoes’ defense is the backbone of the team. They have consistently been able to shut down high-powered offenses, and they pride themselves on their ability to control the tempo of the game.
• Running Game: On offense, Monroe focuses on their power running game. With a bruising offensive line and a talented stable of running backs, Monroe grinds out yards on the ground and wears down opposing defenses over the course of the game.

Key Players to Watch:

• Jordan Matthews (RB): Matthews is the heart and soul of the Tornadoes’ offense. A senior running back, Matthews is a powerful runner with the ability to break tackles and churn out tough yards. He’s the type of back who gets stronger as the game goes on, and Monroe will lean heavily on him to carry the load.
• Devin Harris (LB): On defense, Harris is the leader. A hard-hitting linebacker with excellent instincts, Harris is always around the ball and makes key plays when his team needs them. He’s the captain of the defense and will be tasked with stopping Dougherty’s playmakers.
• Andre Lewis (QB): Though Monroe is a run-heavy team, Lewis is capable of making plays through the air when needed. He manages the game well and can take advantage of defenses that stack the box to stop the run.

Dougherty Comprehensive High School Trojans

The Dougherty Trojans come into this matchup with a more balanced offensive attack than Monroe. Head coach Reggie Williams has built a team that can score in a variety of ways, whether it’s through the air or on the ground. Dougherty prides itself on its athleticism, especially at the skill positions, where they have several dynamic playmakers capable of breaking open the game.

Key Strengths:

• Passing Game: Dougherty’s offense is centered around its ability to spread the field and attack defenses through the air. Their quarterback, Tyler Johnson, has a strong arm and can make all the throws, while their receiving corps is deep and talented.
• Playmakers on Defense: The Trojans’ defense may bend, but it doesn’t break. They thrive on forcing turnovers and making big plays when it counts. Dougherty’s secondary is filled with ball hawks who excel at taking away the deep ball.

Key Players to Watch:

• Tyler Johnson (QB): Johnson is the focal point of Dougherty’s offense. A dual-threat quarterback, Johnson can beat teams with both his arm and his legs. He’s a playmaker who thrives when the game is on the line, and Monroe will need to keep a close eye on him.
• Jamal Green (WR): Green is Dougherty’s top receiving threat. With blazing speed and great hands, he’s capable of turning short passes into long gains and stretching the field with deep routes. He’s the type of player who can take over a game if he gets hot.
• Malik Thompson (DB): Thompson is the leader of Dougherty’s defense. A ball-hawking cornerback, he’s capable of locking down opposing receivers and creating turnovers. If he can neutralize Monroe’s passing attack, it will force the Tornadoes to rely even more on their ground game.

Head-to-Head Rivalry

Monroe and Dougherty have faced each other numerous times over the years, with each team enjoying its share of success in the rivalry. While Monroe has traditionally been the more physical, defensive-minded team, Dougherty has typically been more dynamic on offense. This contrast in styles has led to some memorable games, with both teams having the ability to win in different ways.

In recent seasons, Monroe has had the upper hand, winning three of the last five matchups. However, Dougherty has improved steadily over the past few years, and this 2024 matchup could be the year they turn the tables on their rivals.

Speculative Betting Odds

While high school football games don’t typically feature official betting odds, we can make an educated guess on what the odds might look like if they were available:

• Spread: Monroe (-2.5)
  Monroe enters the game as a slight favorite due to their strong defense and experience. However, Dougherty’s offense is explosive enough to keep the game close, making the spread fairly narrow.
• Moneyline: Monroe -130, Dougherty Comp. +110
  The moneyline suggests that while Monroe is favored, Dougherty has a realistic chance of pulling off the upset. Bettors who believe in Dougherty’s ability to outscore Monroe might be tempted to take the underdog at +110.
• Over/Under: 45.5 points
  The over/under is set at a modest 45.5 points, reflecting the defensive strength of Monroe and the offensive balance of Dougherty. If Monroe’s defense can control the pace, the under could hit. However, if Dougherty can turn the game into a shootout, the over might be the better bet.

Keys to the Game

For Monroe to Win:

1. Dominate Time of Possession: Monroe’s strength lies in their ability to control the clock with their running game. They’ll need to sustain long drives and keep Dougherty’s explosive offense off the field.
2. Limit Big Plays: Dougherty thrives on explosive plays, especially in the passing game. Monroe’s defense will need to prevent wide receivers like Jamal Green from getting behind them for big gains.
3. Force Turnovers: The Tornadoes will need to win the turnover battle. If they can force a few key turnovers, it will swing the game in their favor, especially if they can capitalize with points off those turnovers.

For Dougherty Comp. to Win:

1. Exploit Monroe’s Secondary: With a strong passing attack led by Tyler Johnson, Dougherty needs to take advantage of their athleticism on the outside. If they can hit on a few deep passes early, it could open up the rest of their offense.
2. Stop the Run: Dougherty’s defense must focus on stopping Jordan Matthews and the Monroe rushing attack. If they can force Monroe into passing situations, it will put more pressure on their less experienced quarterback, Andre Lewis.
3. Create Quick Strikes: Dougherty’s offense is at its best when they score quickly and in bunches. If they can start fast and put Monroe in a position where they need to play from behind, it will take the Tornadoes out of their comfort zone.

---

Game Predictions

This matchup features two teams with very different styles of play, making for an intriguing game. Monroe’s ground-and-pound offense and stifling defense will try to control the pace, while Dougherty’s up-tempo, explosive offense will look to break the game open.

Final Prediction: Monroe 24, Dougherty Comp. 21

In what is expected to be a closely contested game, Monroe’s ability to control the clock and limit Dougherty’s big-play potential will be the difference. The Tornadoes’ defense will force a key turnover late in the game, allowing them to hold on for a narrow

Monroe 24, Dougherty Comp. 21: The final score prediction reflects a closely contested game that goes down to the wire. Monroe’s ability to control the clock and play solid defense against a dynamic Dougherty offense will be the difference-maker. The Tornadoes are expected to grind out the win with a methodical rushing attack led by Jordan Matthews, and a few timely defensive stops, especially from Devin Harris, should help seal the victory for Monroe. Dougherty’s offense, spearheaded by Tyler Johnson, will make it competitive, but in the end, Monroe’s discipline on both sides of the ball gives them the edge.

Breaking Down the Game: Position-by-Position Matchup

Quarterback Battle

The quarterback position will be pivotal in this matchup, and both teams feature signal-callers with unique skill sets.

Tyler Johnson of Dougherty Comp. is the more dynamic of the two quarterbacks. He’s a dual-threat passer who can extend plays with his legs and has a knack for making big throws in critical moments. Johnson’s ability to scramble and keep his eyes downfield will be a key factor, as Dougherty will need him to be at his best if they hope to score quickly and often against Monroe’s stout defense.

On the other side, Andre Lewis for Monroe is more of a game manager but is capable of making big plays when necessary. Lewis excels at controlling the tempo of the game, ensuring that Monroe sticks to its ground-heavy approach. He won’t be asked to carry the team on his back, but his ability to avoid mistakes and manage the game will be critical for the Tornadoes’ success.

Advantage: Dougherty Comp.

Tyler Johnson’s versatility and playmaking ability give Dougherty the edge at quarterback. His ability to take over a game with his arm and legs could be the deciding factor if the game turns into a shootout.

Running Game

The rushing attack is where Monroe excels. Jordan Matthews is a powerful, downhill runner who thrives in a physical game. He’s a bruising back who can wear down opposing defenses over time. The Tornadoes will rely on Matthews to control the pace of the game and keep Dougherty’s offense off the field.

Dougherty, on the other hand, will need to balance their passing attack with an effective ground game. Malik Jordan will be their primary back, and while he has shown flashes of explosiveness, he’ll need to step up in this game to take some of the pressure off of Tyler Johnson. Dougherty doesn’t emphasize the run as much as Monroe, but a balanced attack will be crucial to keeping Monroe’s defense honest.

Advantage: Monroe

Monroe’s commitment to the run and the talent of Jordan Matthews gives them a clear advantage in the ground game. If they can control time of possession and keep their defense fresh, it will play to their strengths.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

Dougherty Comp. has a clear edge in the receiving department, with Jamal Green leading the way. Green is an explosive receiver who can stretch the field and create mismatches against Monroe’s secondary. His speed and route-running make him a threat on every play. In addition to Green, Xavier Davis provides another reliable target for Tyler Johnson, giving Dougherty a dynamic 1-2 punch in the passing game.

Monroe’s passing attack isn’t as explosive, but they have capable receivers who can make plays when needed. Brandon Clark is their most reliable target, and while he may not put up eye-popping numbers, he’s a steady presence who excels in short-yardage situations and key third-down plays.

Advantage: Dougherty Comp.

Dougherty’s playmakers in the receiving corps give them the advantage here. If Tyler Johnson can find his rhythm early and connect with Green and Davis downfield, Monroe’s defense could struggle to keep up.

Offensive Line

Monroe’s offensive line is a big reason why their running game is so effective. They’re physical at the point of attack and excel in run blocking, creating lanes for Jordan Matthews to exploit. While they may not be as adept in pass protection, their focus on the run game allows them to lean on their strength in the trenches.

Dougherty’s offensive line will have a tougher task in this game. They need to give Tyler Johnson enough time to make plays in the passing game while also creating running lanes for Malik Jordan. If they struggle against Monroe’s front seven, it could be a long night for the Trojans’ offense.

Advantage: Monroe

Monroe’s offensive line is built to dominate in the run game, and they’ll need to do just that to control the pace of the game. Dougherty’s line will need to step up, but Monroe’s physicality gives them the edge in this matchup.

Defensive Front Seven

Monroe’s defense is built around their ability to stop the run and get after the quarterback. Devin Harris is the leader of their front seven, and he’s a disruptive force at linebacker. Harris excels at reading plays and making tackles in the backfield, and he’ll be key in stopping Dougherty’s running game and pressuring Tyler Johnson in passing situations.

Dougherty’s front seven, led by Marcus Thompson, is more focused on creating turnovers and making big plays. While they may not be as stout against the run as Monroe, they have the ability to make game-changing plays, whether it’s through sacks, forced fumbles, or interceptions.

Advantage: Monroe

Monroe’s defensive front is more consistent and physical, giving them the edge in this matchup. Dougherty’s defense will need to rely on their ability to create turnovers, but Monroe’s disciplined approach on offense could limit those opportunities.

Secondary

Dougherty’s secondary is one of their strengths on defense. Malik Thompson is a standout cornerback who excels at shutting down opposing receivers. His ability to take away the deep ball will be crucial against Monroe’s passing attack, though Monroe’s run-heavy offense may limit his impact. Still, if Dougherty can force Monroe into passing situations, Thompson will be ready to capitalize.

Monroe’s secondary isn’t as flashy, but they’re solid in coverage and rarely give up big plays. Jason Miller is their top cornerback, and while he may not have the same reputation as Thompson, he’s capable of holding his own against Dougherty’s receivers.

Advantage: Dougherty Comp.

Dougherty’s secondary has more playmakers, and if they can force Monroe to rely on their passing game, they’ll have the opportunity to create turnovers and flip the field position in their favor.

Game X-Factors

Every game has a few X-factors that can turn the tide, and this matchup between Monroe and Dougherty is no different. Here are a few players and aspects to watch that could determine the outcome:

Jordan Matthews (Monroe Running Back)

Matthews will be the focal point of Monroe’s offense, and if he has a big game, it will be tough for Dougherty to keep pace. Matthews’ ability to grind out tough yards and control the clock will be crucial for Monroe’s success. If Dougherty can’t stop him, it will be a long night for the Trojans.

Tyler Johnson (Dougherty Quarterback)

Johnson is the most dynamic player on the field, and his ability to make plays with his arm and legs gives Dougherty a chance in any game. If he can avoid turnovers and connect with his receivers on big plays, Dougherty could pull off the upset.

Turnovers

As with any football game, turnovers will play a critical role in determining the outcome. Monroe’s defense thrives on forcing mistakes, and if they can win the turnover battle, it will give their offense more opportunities to control the clock. Dougherty, on the other hand, will need to limit mistakes and take advantage of any turnovers they can create.

Time of Possession

Monroe’s ability to control time of possession will be a key factor in this game. If they can keep Dougherty’s offense off the field and wear down their defense with long, sustained drives, it will limit the opportunities for Tyler Johnson and the Trojans to make big plays.

Final Thoughts and Predictions

The Monroe vs. Dougherty Comprehensive matchup is set to be a thrilling contest between two contrasting styles of football. Monroe’s physical, run-heavy approach will be put to the test against Dougherty’s explosive passing attack. While Dougherty has the talent to make big plays and score quickly, Monroe’s ability to control the tempo and grind out long drives gives them the edge in what should be a tightly contested game.

Final Prediction: Monroe 24, Dougherty Comp. 21

Monroe’s defense and running game will ultimately prove too much for Dougherty to overcome. Look for Jordan Matthews to have a big game on the ground, while Devin Harris leads the defense in making key stops when it counts. Dougherty’s offense will keep things close, but Monroe’s ability to control the clock and limit big plays will be the deciding factor in this matchup.