The Hooker (OK) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Pawnee (OK) on Friday, December 6, at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSSAA – Class A-I tournament.

Hooker vs Pawnee Football Game Info:

What: Oklahoma High School Football
Who: Hooker vs Pawnee
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSSAA – Class A-I
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Game preview: Hooker vs Pawnee

The stage is set for an exciting playoff clash between the Pawnee (OK) and Hooker (OK) football teams, with the two squads gearing up for a neutral-site game on Friday, December 6 at 7 p.m. As both teams enter the game with impressive records, this matchup promises to be an intense and closely contested battle.

Team Overview

Pawnee comes into the game with a solid 9-3 overall record, including a perfect 6-0 mark in district play. Their success has been built on a potent offense, averaging 42.3 points per game, and a defense that has allowed just 169 points over the course of the season. The team has shown resilience in both home and away games, with a balanced record of 4-2 at home and 4-1 on the road. Notable players like Justin Palacios and Kleat Martens have played key roles in the team’s offense, with Palacios contributing 126 rushing yards per game and Martens leading the passing game with 155.5 yards per game.

On the other hand, Hooker has been nearly unstoppable this season, posting an 11-1 record overall. The team went 7-0 in district play and boasts an impressive 7-0 home record, with just one loss on the road (4-1). Their offense has been highly productive, averaging 43.5 points per game. Hooker excels in all areas of the game, from a powerful rushing attack to a well-rounded passing game. The team’s ability to score quickly, particularly in the first half, has been a hallmark of their success, as they average 16.3 points in the first quarter and 13.8 in the second quarter. Key players like Kleat Martens, who leads the team in total yards with 223.5 per game, and Aydan Woolridge, a force on defense with 9.3 tackles per game, will be pivotal in their playoff push.

Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense

Pawnee has displayed a high-powered offense, ranking among the best in the state with 447 total yards per game, including 266.8 rushing yards per game. This strength will be tested against Hooker’s defense, which has allowed just 149 points all season. Hooker has been dominant in their own right, with a balanced attack and strong defensive play. The team will need to contain Pawnee’s dynamic offensive players, particularly Palacios, who has the ability to break off long runs at any moment.

The real challenge for Pawnee will be limiting Hooker’s explosive offense, which has put up impressive numbers in every quarter of the game. Hooker’s ability to score early and often has made them difficult to contain, with their average of 16.3 points in the first quarter and 13.8 points in the second quarter.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

This game represents an interesting contrast in styles. While both teams have similar records in district play, Hooker has been the more consistent squad, particularly at home. Pawnee, however, has shown its own mettle, surviving tough road games and earning a respectable 4-1 away record. This neutral-site matchup will eliminate the advantage of playing at home, which could be a factor in the game’s outcome.

Players to Watch

• Pawnee’s Justin Palacios: With 126 rushing yards per game, Palacios is the key to Pawnee’s offensive success. If he can control the ground game, it will keep Hooker’s high-powered offense off the field and potentially limit the game’s tempo.
• Hooker’s Kleat Martens: Leading his team with 223.5 total yards per game, Martens has proven to be a dynamic playmaker. His ability to impact both the passing and running game will be crucial for Hooker’s chances of advancing.
• Pawnee’s Aydan Woolridge: Woolridge has been a defensive leader for Pawnee, averaging 9.3 tackles per game. He will need to step up in a big way to contain Hooker’s prolific offense.

Final Thoughts

With both teams coming off strong seasons, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest. Hooker’s high-scoring offense and flawless district record make them the favorite, but Pawnee’s resilience and balance on both sides of the ball will make them a formidable opponent. As both teams take the field on December 6, all eyes will be on the showdown to see which team will continue their playoff journey.