#17 Greene Central vs #16 Midway Playoff Preview

In a highly anticipated opening round of the NCHSAA 2A Playoffs, the #17 Greene Central Rams (6-4) will travel to Spivey’s Corner to take on the #16 Midway Raiders (8-2). Both teams bring unique strengths to the field in what will be their first-ever meeting, promising an exciting matchup with everything on the line.

Season Recap

Greene Central enters the playoffs on a three-game winning streak, a testament to their resilience against a grueling schedule in which nine of their 10 opponents made the playoffs. The Rams have demonstrated a balanced approach on offense, averaging 22.6 points per game while allowing 19.3.

Midway, on the other hand, boasts an 8-2 record and has dominated on the ground throughout the season. The Raiders, averaging 36.1 points per game while giving up 21.6, have relied on a dynamic rushing attack to power their offense. They are currently on a five-game winning streak and finished 5-1 in conference play.

Offense: Ground Game Dominance

Both teams prioritize the run game, but the execution differs in scale and consistency.

Greene Central has rushed for at least 180 yards in eight games this season, averaging 180 rushing yards per game with 16 rushing touchdowns. While their passing game is less frequent, they average 94.7 yards per game, completing six passes per contest at a 47% completion rate with nine passing touchdowns on the season.

Midway’s rushing attack is relentless, averaging 259 yards per game on the ground and scoring 36 rushing touchdowns. The Raiders have eclipsed 300 rushing yards in five games and scored five or more rushing touchdowns in a game six times, including one game with six rushing scores. Their passing game is minimal, averaging just 59 yards per game, but they’ve only had more than three completions in two contests this season.

Defense: Playmakers Abound

Greene Central’s defense has been a disruptive force, recording 106.5 tackles for loss, 30 sacks, 14 interceptions, and 13 fumble recoveries. They’ve also found the end zone, returning two fumbles and two interceptions for touchdowns.

Midway’s defense has also been opportunistic, with 47 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, 8 interceptions, and 10 fumble recoveries. The Raiders have returned three fumbles for touchdowns, demonstrating their ability to turn turnovers into points.

Special Teams: Game-Changing Potential

Special teams could play a pivotal role in this game.

Greene Central has converted 3 of 6 PAT attempts and is a perfect 2 for 2 on field goals. They’ve also scored twice on kickoff returns, showcasing their ability to shift momentum in the return game.

Midway’s special teams have been even more impactful, converting 21 of 25 PAT attempts and returning two punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns. Although they’ve missed their only field goal attempt, their return game is a significant threat.

Key Matchups

• Greene Central’s Defense vs. Midway’s Rushing Attack
  The Rams’ defensive front, with 106.5 tackles for loss, will be tasked with slowing down a Midway ground game that has consistently churned out big performances. If Greene Central can force Midway into passing situations, it could limit the Raiders’ offensive efficiency.

• Midway’s Special Teams vs. Greene Central’s Kick Coverage
  With Midway’s ability to score on both punt and kickoff returns, Greene Central must be sharp in their coverage units to avoid giving up momentum-shifting plays.

• Turnover Battle
  Both teams excel at creating turnovers, with defensive touchdowns on both sides. Whichever team can capitalize on those opportunities will likely have the edge in a game expected to be tightly contested.

Trey’s Predictions:

I think the Rams are ready. I believe every situation Greene Central has endured this year with injuries is gonna finally come altogether full circle. I think tonight will be the best Greene Central team we have seen this season. Rams by 13