As the 2024 football season heads into its thrilling postseason, all eyes are on two powerhouse teams in Oklahoma: the undefeated Owasso Rams and the two-time defending state champions, the Bixby Spartans. These two teams are set to meet in a highly anticipated playoff game on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The game promises to be a clash of titans, as both teams have proven their dominance throughout the regular season.

Owasso Rams: Perfect on the Season

Owasso (12-0) has been one of the most dominant teams in Oklahoma football this year, finishing the regular season with a perfect record of 7-0 in district play and 6-0 at home. Their offensive and defensive balance has been key to their success. The Rams have scored a staggering 543 points while allowing just 259, making them a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball.

Owasso’s offense has been explosive, averaging 45.3 points per game, led by senior quarterback Drew Frankenfield, who has thrown for 223.5 yards per game. Running back Jayden Hall has been a workhorse in the backfield, averaging 94.1 rushing yards per game, while receiver Tae Bethel contributes 80.4 yards per game in the passing game. On defense, linebacker Hudson Hodges leads the team with 11 tackles per game, helping Owasso limit opponents to just 21.6 points per game.

Bixby Spartans: A Formidable Challenger

The Bixby Spartans (10-2) are no strangers to big-time playoff games, having won the state championship in 2022 and 2023. Their regular-season record of 6-1 in district play and 6-1 at home speaks to their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Bixby’s offense has been just as potent as Owasso’s, averaging 45.9 points per game. Quarterback Carson Kirby, who has thrown for 227.8 yards per game, has been a key player for Bixby’s high-powered passing attack, and running back Blake Conner has provided balance with his 78.3 yards per game on the ground.

Defensively, the Spartans are just as tough. They boast a strong defense that averages 2.3 sacks per game and 8.5 tackles per game from linebacker Cooper Parker. Bixby’s defense has been effective at limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities, allowing just 19 points per game.

Head-to-Head: Owasso vs. Bixby

The previous meeting between these two teams on August 30, 2024, saw Owasso secure a commanding 40-21 victory over Bixby. While this early-season win for Owasso gives them a psychological edge heading into the postseason, both teams have evolved since their first matchup. Owasso’s offense exploded in the second half, scoring 27 unanswered points after leading 13-7 at halftime. Bixby, meanwhile, will look to adjust and avenge their early-season loss.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced some of the best competition in the state, including matchups with top teams like Jenks, Charles Page, Edmond Memorial, Norman North, and Deer Creek. Owasso holds a 6-0 record against common opponents, while Bixby has a slightly lower 5-0 record. This demonstrates that both teams are accustomed to high-level competition and are battle-tested heading into this playoff showdown.

Statistical Breakdown: Offense vs. Defense

The game will feature two high-powered offenses, with Owasso averaging 424.2 total yards per game and Bixby averaging 471.6 yards per game. Both teams are balanced, with Owasso averaging 231.5 rushing yards and 192.7 passing yards per game, while Bixby posts similar numbers with 233.3 rushing yards and 238.3 passing yards per game.

Defensively, Owasso has been effective in limiting yards, allowing 259 yards per game, while Bixby’s defense has been even stingier, allowing just 227 yards per game. The Rams will look to exploit Bixby’s defense with their balanced offensive attack, while Bixby’s pass rush and strong secondary will aim to shut down Owasso’s potent passing game.

The Big Game

With both teams boasting undefeated records in neutral and playoff games, this matchup promises to be one of the most thrilling contests of the season. The game will not only decide who advances to the next round of the playoffs but also which team will continue their march toward a state title. Owasso will be looking to make a statement and prove their 40-21 win in August was no fluke, while Bixby will aim to recover from that loss and extend their streak of dominance in Oklahoma high school football.

Both teams have been among the best in the state this year, and this playoff game will undoubtedly be a showcase of Oklahoma high school football at its finest. Make sure to tune in on December 6 at 7 p.m. to see who comes out on top in this epic showdown between Owasso and Bixby.