Game Details
- Teams: Spring Mills Cardinals vs. Hedgesville Eagles
- Date: Friday, November 8
- Kickoff: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Hedgesville High School, Hedgesville, West Virginia
- Watch: Live on NFHS Network
How to Watch
Fans can catch this high school football matchup live on the NFHS Network. Subscribers can stream games live, access replays, and enjoy highlights from high school sports events nationwide. The NFHS Network subscription provides access to a range of games, including Spring Mills vs. Hedgesville.
Game Preview
The Spring Mills Cardinals and Hedgesville Eagles square off in what promises to be an exciting late-season matchup. Both teams have displayed grit and determination throughout the season, and each is looking to close out with a win. Spring Mills is known for its high-scoring offense and efficient passing game, while Hedgesville prides itself on a tough defense and a strategic ground attack.
Team Overview
Spring Mills Cardinals
- Record: 7-3
- Coach: Josh Sims
- Key Players: QB Blake Weaver, RB Tyler West, WR Evan Reed, LB Cameron Scott
- Strengths: Explosive passing offense, athletic wide receivers, strong pass rush
- Weaknesses: Run defense inconsistency
Hedgesville Eagles
- Record: 6-4
- Coach: Matt Faircloth
- Key Players: QB Alex Henry, RB Caleb Spencer, WR Malik Jones, DL Marcus Greene
- Strengths: Effective run game, physical defense, disciplined secondary
- Weaknesses: Limited passing game effectiveness
Team Comparisons
- Offense
- Spring Mills: The Cardinals’ offense is built around a high-octane passing game led by QB Blake Weaver. Weaver is an accurate passer and has built a strong connection with WR Evan Reed, who is known for his speed and ability to make plays downfield. The Cardinals complement their aerial attack with a capable ground game from RB Tyler West, but their offense truly shines when they spread the field and keep the ball moving quickly.
- Hedgesville: Hedgesville’s offense takes a more conservative approach, relying on the run game to control the tempo and wear down defenses. QB Alex Henry has the ability to pass but generally plays a supporting role to RB Caleb Spencer, who is known for his power and ability to gain tough yards. This run-focused offense enables Hedgesville to control time of possession, which could be a key strategy against Spring Mills.
- Defense
- Spring Mills: The Cardinals’ defense is aggressive, particularly in their pass rush. LB Cameron Scott leads a front seven that can put significant pressure on the quarterback. However, their run defense has had moments of inconsistency, and they’ll need to shore up this area against a run-heavy Hedgesville offense.
- Hedgesville: The Eagles have a stout, physical defense that excels at stopping the run and holding their ground. DL Marcus Greene anchors a strong defensive line that focuses on stuffing running lanes, and the secondary is disciplined, making it challenging for teams to complete big passing plays. Hedgesville’s defense will need to stay alert to contain Spring Mills’ explosive offense.
- Special Teams
- Spring Mills: The Cardinals’ special teams unit is solid, with a reliable kicker for extra points and short-range field goals. Their kick return team has been effective in setting up favorable field positions, which could play a role if they need to keep pace with Hedgesville’s ground game.
- Hedgesville: The Eagles’ special teams are consistent and effective, with strong kick coverage and a kicker capable of making field goals from medium range. If the game comes down to a close score, Hedgesville’s special teams could provide an edge.
Player Matchups to Watch
- Quarterbacks: Spring Mills’ Blake Weaver vs. Hedgesville’s Alex Henry
- Weaver is a skilled passer who can spread the ball to multiple receivers, challenging Hedgesville’s secondary. On the other hand, Henry plays a more conservative role but will need to manage the game efficiently and capitalize on any scoring opportunities. This contrast in quarterback styles will shape the rhythm of the game.
- Running Backs: Spring Mills’ Tyler West vs. Hedgesville’s Defensive Front
- Tyler West brings speed and agility to the Spring Mills run game, adding an extra dimension to their offense. However, he’ll face a tough test against Hedgesville’s defensive line, led by Marcus Greene. If West can break through, it will add balance to Spring Mills’ offense, but Hedgesville will aim to shut him down early.
- Wide Receivers and Defensive Backs: Spring Mills WR Evan Reed vs. Hedgesville’s Secondary
- Reed is a key weapon for Spring Mills, particularly in stretching the field with deep routes. Hedgesville’s secondary will need to keep a close eye on him and prevent big plays, especially if Spring Mills tries to establish momentum through the air. Limiting Reed’s production will be critical to Hedgesville’s defensive strategy.
- Linebackers: Spring Mills LB Cameron Scott vs. Hedgesville’s Offensive Line
- Scott’s ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the backfield will be a focal point of Spring Mills’ defense. Hedgesville’s offensive line will need to protect Henry and create lanes for Spencer to run through, which will be crucial to their game plan.
Odds & Prediction
Odds
While high school games generally don’t have official odds, Spring Mills could be considered a slight favorite due to their high-scoring offense and well-rounded roster. However, Hedgesville’s strong defense and effective run game give them a significant chance if they can control the pace of the game and minimize big plays from Spring Mills.
Prediction
Spring Mills Cardinals 27, Hedgesville Eagles 21
Spring Mills’ offensive versatility and ability to strike quickly may be the deciding factor in this game. Hedgesville’s defense will keep things close, and their ground game can be effective at controlling the tempo. However, if Spring Mills capitalizes on big plays and maintains offensive rhythm, they are likely to outlast Hedgesville in a competitive matchup.
Key Factors to Watch
- Game Tempo: Spring Mills will aim to establish a fast tempo with their passing attack, while Hedgesville will look to control the clock through their ground game. Whichever team controls the pace will likely have the upper hand.
- Turnover Battle: With both teams bringing strong defenses, turnovers could play a pivotal role. Spring Mills has shown a knack for interceptions, while Hedgesville’s front seven can force fumbles. Winning the turnover battle could significantly affect the game’s outcome.
- Red Zone Efficiency: Both teams will need to convert their red zone opportunities into touchdowns rather than field goals. Spring Mills has the edge in offensive explosiveness, while Hedgesville’s disciplined defense will be tough to crack inside the 20-yard line.
- Special Teams Impact: Hedgesville’s special teams could be crucial, especially if they can pin Spring Mills deep in their territory or force a turnover on special teams plays. Solid special teams play could help them establish favorable field position.
The Spring Mills vs. Hedgesville matchup promises to be a highlight of the high school football season, featuring two teams with distinct strengths and styles. Spring Mills’ high-powered passing game and athleticism offer an exciting contrast to Hedgesville’s tough, run-focused approach and disciplined defense. Both teams have a lot at stake in this late-season contest, with each looking to secure a final regular-season victory.
For fans eager to see how this contest plays out, tune in to the NFHS Network to catch the action live!