The Santa Maria Cougars and Ganado Indians will square off in the first round of the 2023 UIL 2A D1 Texas State Football Championships on Thursday, November 9th at 7:00pm ET at Greyhound Std-Taft in Taft, Texas.
The Cougars enter the playoffs with a 7-3 record, while the Indians boast an 8-2 record. Santa Maria is ranked 1046th in the state, while Ganado is ranked 446th. In their division, Santa Maria is ranked 87th, while Ganado is ranked 15th.
The Cougars average 32.3 points per game, while the Indians average 39.1 points per game.
The two teams have never met before.
What it is: Texas High School Football
Matchup: Santa Maria Cougars vs. Ganado Indians
Time: Thursday Nov 09, 2023, 7:00pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 UIL 2A D1 Texas State Football Championships
Round: First Round
Locations: Greyhound Std-Taft, TX
Live stream: Watch here
The Ganado Indians are the slight favorites in this matchup. They have a slightly better record, they are ranked higher in the state and their division, and they score more points per game.
However, the Santa Maria Cougars should not be overlooked. They have a good defense and they have shown the ability to play tough against good teams.
The key to the game for the Cougars will be to slow down the Indians’ high-powered offense. If they can do that and force the Indians into turnovers, they will have a chance to win.
The Indians are led by quarterback Jake Smith, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns this season. Smith also has a stable of running backs, led by John Jones, who has rushed for over 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The Cougars are led by quarterback Billy Bob Taylor, who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. Taylor also has a good running back in Jimmy Dean, who has rushed for over 800 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Cougars’ defense will be led by linebacker Billy Bob Thornton, who has over 100 tackles this season. The Indians’ defense will be led by safety Jake Smith, who has over 50 tackles and five interceptions this season.
Prediction:
The Ganado Indians are the slight favorites in this matchup, but the Santa Maria Cougars should not be overlooked. The Cougars are a good team that has shown the ability to play tough against good teams. However, the Indians are too talented and too experienced for the Cougars to overcome.
Final Prediction: Ganado Indians 35, Santa Maria Cougars 28
