Quarterback

The biggest difference between the two teams is the preference on whether or not to the throw the ball. Kyle Edwards was 0-6 last week for the Bobcats, while Mann, on the other hand, throws the ball nearly as often as it runs it. Quarterback Cody Younce has completed 55 percent of his passes for a little less than 1,500 yards and 25 touchdowns on the season.

Advantage: J.L. Mann

Running backs

Seneca will likely be without its leading rusher on Friday night, leaving the duties up to the unproven Chris Beitz and Darrell Nelson. The Bobcats were averaging only 111.2 rushing yards per game, and Mann’s Cameron Blassingame and Eric Beeks have combined to put up almost twice Seneca’s total production.

Advantage: J.L. Mann

Wide receivers

The Bobcats do not have a receiver on the team who has more than three catches, and nobody with more than 100 yards, despite the fact Kenny Watt has a touchdown receiving and Harry Jenkins has been targeted often. Mann’s big target is Austin Huguley, who has 608 yards and nine touchdowns on the year, and it also finds Sampson Baldwin and Marc Williams regularly.

Advantage: J.L. Mann

Offensive line

Even with strong players on the line like Casey Baldwin, Seneca has been unable to find many holes and the Bobcats have averaged only 33.2 passing yards per game. Mann’s strength has been its ability to consistently outscore opponents, and the offensive line has helped Blassingame to 7.4 yards per rush.

Advantage: J.L. Mann

Run defense

Seneca has been torched on the ground this year, and the nearly 200 yards per game it surrenders tells the story pretty clearly. However, the Bobcats do have Jalen Hunter and Donte Morris, two big bodies inside. The last two weeks, Mann has surrendered just 79 yards on 33 carries to Peach Blossom 3A champion Greenville and 76 yards to Wade Hampton.

Advantage: J.L. Mann

Pass defense

Seneca’s secondary picked up two interceptions last week – one of which set up a touchdown – and have caused trouble for most teams. Against Woodmont earlier in the season, the Bobcats picked up three interceptions. Mann had an interception last week against Greenville, but was still beat for 233 yards through the air.

Advantage: Seneca

Special teams

Teams have been trying to kick the ball away from Watt on returns, but West-Oak misfired last week and Watt took a kickoff 78 yards to West-Oak’s 10-yard line. Yet, it is not just the return game where Seneca has made a name for itself. Seth Rothell is as consistent a kicker as there is in the area, and easily connected on two more extra points last week.

Advantage: Seneca

— Kevin Pomeroy