#PRZTN Championship Preview: Alcoa vs. Westview

<!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can the undefeated Chargers take down the power that is Alcoa and take home the Class 3A state title? They have a shot but it won't be easy. Check out our game preview below &amp; who we think comes out on top!</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Alcoa Tornadoes </strong>vs. <strong>Westview Chargers</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Records: <strong>Tornadoes </strong>(12-1)&nbsp; &nbsp; <strong>Chargers </strong>(14-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>When: Dec. 6th - 11:00 AM Central</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Where: Chattanooga, TN </strong>(Finley Stadium)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>TV/Internet: WUXP-30, TSSAAsports.com</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coaches</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Alcoa: Brian Nix</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Westview: Matt McConnell</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Key Players to Watch</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["783053"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce21712d8e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The heartbeat of this Tornadoes team is Graf and his performance in this championship matchup will be huge towards his team winning another 3A title. Sitting as a current Mr. Football finalist, Graf brings a steady, calm demeanor behind center while providing a nice mix of passing and rushing. This senior signal caller already has a few state titles under his belt, so you can bet Graf will be primed and ready to perform.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["219408"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce21712df7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Throughout these playoffs, Owens has been a man among boys, putting in work on both sides of the ball with his biggest moments coming on defense. His work in the trenches has been important in the Tornadoes run and I expect it will continue in this matchup versus the Chargers. Owens has experience in these title games and he tends to play big in big games, so watch out for this future Michigan Wolverine down in Chattanooga.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"[player_tooltip player_id='1630037' first='JaColby' last='Cooper']","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'2u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"175","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2410","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Alcoa ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce21712ea6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>A new addition to the Tornadoes team this year, Cooper has become a big play threat for the offense that has the size and speed to beat defenders deep down field. His ability to run past the Westview secondary may become a key piece in this game. The Chargers have a solid defensive backfield, so finding big plays against them will be tough but Cooper could be a guy that is able to do it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["817933"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce21712eef"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">This rising sophomore two-way talent is starting to breakout as he has become a go-to target on offense for Graf while displaying excellent upside in the secondary. During these playoffs, Dean has made big play after big play, showing why college programs are showing interest in him and why he is the next great stud to come out of the Tornadoes program.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["424594"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce4c7ca73b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">This freshman sensation has been stellar throughout the season, showing outstanding poise and maturity beyond his age while displaying excellent college upside. A gunslinger with clean mechanics, Simpson is fearless for a freshman but it will be interesting to see how he handles the big stage against a formidable opponent. The Tornadoes defense will be the best unit Simpson and the Chargers have seen all year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1103496"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce4c7ca78e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The Chargers sophomore running back has had a breakthrough season where he has established himself as the team's top ball carrier and might be the X-Factor in this championship matchup. The Chargers will look to throw the ball but slowing the game with Barnes and their run game may be the recipe towards success and winning the 3A title.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["964719"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce4c7ca7d4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Versatile with a physical build, Joy has been a mismatch issue for opposing teams this year, which has continued here into the playoffs. The Chargers junior has a certain skill set that can be utilized in multiple ways, like last week where Joy produced multiple touchdowns at running back. Going against a solid Alcoa defensive line, I could see the Chargers using Joy yet again in the backfield to grind out tough yards while being used in the red zone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1422977"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674ce4c7ca817"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Brown could be an important player in this game as he handles a big role on both sides of the ball with the ability to provide big play abilities. Throughout the 2024 season, Brown has been one of the more consistent players for the Chargers team and it's continued during the playoffs. Producing on offense could be important but I think his work in the secondary will be even more so in hopes of not allowing Dean or Cooper to get loose.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Game Preview</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- </strong>Yet again, Alcoa is back in the Class 3A title game and they come into their matchup versus Westview as the favorite but this Chargers team may be the best competition for the title the Tornadoes have seen in years. Both of these squads come into this matchup confident in what they bring to the field with a pair of quarterbacks in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='783053' first='Eli' last='Graf'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='424594' first='Graham' last='Simpson'] </strong>that have the ability to put on a show. The Tornadoes senior dual threat quarterback is the backbone of the team and however Graf goes, the team goes. Much of the same can be said for Simpson, who is coming off probably his toughest game of the year, so you can bet he will be ready to spin it come Thursday.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1529148,"width":"265px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/gsimpson.jpg?w=700" alt="" class="wp-image-1529148" style="width:265px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Simpson and his Chargers offense can be quite explosive and high scoring. Players like <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='964719' first='Donteze' last='Joy']</strong>, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1103496' first='Asa' last='Barnes'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1422977' first='Miles' last='Brown'] </strong>are game changers that the Alcoa defense must account for in this matchup. Getting after Simpson and making him uncomfortable is the first goal for guys like <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='219408' first='Eli' last='Owens'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1189145' first='Jamir' last='Turner']</strong>. The Alcoa defensive line will be critical in this game because if they don't slow up the run or harass Simpson, the Chargers offense may be able to go-off.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Keeping the Westview offense on the sidelines will be up to Graf and his offensive teammates. The Tornadoes like to use balance between their passing and run game. Throwing the ball has been more prevalent here of late, especially with the emergence of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1630037' first='JaColby' last='Cooper'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='817933' first='Jamir' last='Dean'] </strong>at receiver. These two pass catchers have allowed the Tornadoes offense to become more explosive but to win against the Chargers, Alcoa may need to rely on their run game to slow things down.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1570231,"width":"339px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/jdean.jpg?w=400" alt="" class="wp-image-1570231" style="width:339px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Both offenses have a chance to put up a lot of points, so good defensive play will go a long way towards either team finding victory. It all starts in the trenches and Alcoa and Westview are strong in the line of scrimmage, so it will be interesting to see who's will can be opposed on the other more.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Getting off to a fast start could also be a key factor. The Chargers like to strike fast and if they can do that in the 1st quarter, they may put some doubt into the heads of Alcoa's players. We shall see if that actually happens because the Tornadoes are used to being in this position. They know how to win on the big stage and this Westview team has yet to be there. I could see this game going a variety of ways but I know whoever plays strong in the line without turning the ball over, should gain an advantage towards winning the 3A title.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Game Prediction</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Many across the state will automatically go with Alcoa and give them another state title but Westview is different and could be the best competition the Tornadoes have faced this season. The Chargers have the kind of athletes at the skill positions to keep up with Alcoa. They also have a solid offensive line that could keep Owens, Turner and the Tornadoes D-line in-check. Winning this game shouldn't be easy for Alcoa as I see a battle on their hands that may go into the 4th quarter.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The initial thinking says this could be a high scoring affair but if it is, Westview may be the team on top. Having Graf behind center, the Tornadoes can score too but can they keep up with Simpson and his offensive weapons. That is something I think we will find out in the 1st half where both teams try to get a feel for each other.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The culture within the Alcoa program and their physicality I can see being an X-Factor in this matchup. While I can see a scenario that has Westview winning, in the end, I still like the Tornadoes and their shot at bringing home another “Gold Ball”. This should be a closer game than some may think but eventually, Alcoa will pull out the victory and finish their reign on the 3A level with a bang.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Score: <strong>Alcoa 34&nbsp; Westview 30</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1544232,"width":"395px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/egraf2.jpg?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-1544232" style="width:395px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->