Division 6 Region 22 Final – #2 Bluffton vs #4 Patrick Henry Friday November 22, 2024
The Division VI, Region 22 Regional Final features a thrilling showdown between the #2 Bluffton Pirates (12-1) and #4 Patrick Henry Patriots (11-2). The game, airing on Lima’s Sports Radio 93.1 The Fan, promises to be a battle of powerhouse programs with strong offenses and stingy defenses vying for a spot in the state semifinals.
Bluffton enters the game riding a wave of momentum after a dominant 61-22 victory over #3 Ottawa Hills in the regional semifinal. The Pirates took control early, leading 33-15 at halftime and cruising through the second half. Running back Landon Worcester was unstoppable, racking up 133 rushing yards and five touchdowns—all in the first half. Bluffton’s high-powered offense, which averages 41.5 points per game, has been a hallmark of their season, while their defense, allowing just 10 points per game and recording four shutouts, has been just as impressive.
The Pirates finished second in the Northwest Conference (NWC), with their only loss coming to undefeated Columbus Grove in the regular-season NWC championship game. This marks Bluffton’s second consecutive trip to the regional finals, having fallen short to Columbus Grove last year. This time, the Pirates are determined to take the next step.
On the other side, Patrick Henry arrives at the final after a stunning 35-7 upset of top-seeded Hopewell-Loudon in the semifinal. The Patriots dominated on both sides of the ball, showcasing the strength that has carried them throughout the season. Both of Patrick Henry’s losses came against undefeated teams—Liberty Center and Columbus Grove—proving their ability to compete with elite programs.
Patrick Henry combines a balanced offensive attack, averaging 33.6 points per game, with one of the region’s toughest defenses. Allowing just 6.4 points per game, the Patriots have also recorded four shutouts this season, making them a formidable matchup for Bluffton’s explosive offense.
Drew Pasteur’s Fantastic 50 gives Bluffton the slight edge, favoring the Pirates to win by just one point. This razor-thin margin highlights how evenly matched these teams are and sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable battle.
This regional final is shaping up to be a classic clash of strengths: Bluffton’s relentless offensive firepower versus Patrick Henry’s suffocating defense. Kickoff is set for Friday night, November 22, 2024, with the winner advancing to the state semifinals. As the Game of the Week on 93.1 The Fan, this contest is sure to captivate fans with its high stakes and intense competition.
-David Mansell