The Johnston Panthers and Middletown Islanders will face off in the semifinal round of the 2023 RIIL Division 3 Football Championships on Friday, November 10th, at 6pm ET at Middletown High School in Middletown, Rhode Island.
What it is: Rhode Island High School Football
Matchup: Johnston Panthers vs. Middletown Islanders
Time: Friday Nov 10, 2023, 6pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 RIIL Division 3 Football Championships
Round: Semi Final Round
Locations: Middletown – Middletown, RI
Live stream: Watch here
The Panthers come into the game with a 7-2 record, while the Islanders are 8-1. Middletown is ranked 10th in the state, while Johnston is ranked 16th.
The Panthers have a balanced offense, averaging 30.3 points per game. They are led by senior quarterback Ryan Wright, who has thrown for over 1,800 yards and 20 touchdowns this season. Wright is also a threat on the ground, rushing for over 300 yards and five touchdowns. Johnston also has a solid running game, led by senior running back Matt Cassidy.
The Islanders have a high-powered passing game, averaging 26.9 points per game. They are led by senior quarterback Micah Ford, who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. Ford is also a threat on the ground, rushing for over 200 yards and three touchdowns. Middletown also has a solid running game, led by senior running back Landyn Collins.
Both defenses are playing at a high level, with Johnston allowing just 21.7 points per game and Middletown allowing just 19.1 points per game.
This is sure to be a close game between two evenly matched teams. Johnston will need to find a way to slow down the Islanders’ passing game and force turnovers. Middletown will need to protect the football and capitalize on their scoring opportunities.
This is the first time that the two teams have met on the gridiron.
The game will be streamed live on the NFHS Network. To watch, you will need to create an account and subscribe to the service. Subscriptions are available on a monthly or annual basis.
You can watch the game on your smartphone, tablet, computer, or connected device. The NFHS Network app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
Both teams are evenly matched, but I am giving the edge to Middletown due to their home field advantage and their more explosive passing game. I predict that the Islanders will win a close game, 27-24.
