The Nixa (MO) varsity football team will compete against Kirkwood (MO) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: Kirkwood vs Nixa
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: in progress
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 6
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Kirkwood vs. Nixa
The playoff matchup between Kirkwood (10-2) and Nixa (12-0) promises to be an electrifying contest. Nixa comes in undefeated and ranked #1 in Class 6, while Kirkwood boasts a strong 10-win season and a high-powered offense. This game features two of Missouri’s top programs clashing for a chance to advance deeper into the postseason.
Season Overview
Kirkwood Pioneers (10-2)
- Overall Record: 10-2
- District Record: 3-1
- Home Record: 5-1
- Away Record: 3-0
- Neutral Record: 2-1
Kirkwood’s offense has been prolific, averaging 41.9 points per game, with an impressive ability to close games strongly, scoring 14 points per fourth quarter on average. They have also been tested in tight contests, showcasing resilience in high-pressure moments.
Nixa Eagles (12-0)
- Overall Record: 12-0
- District Record: 9-0
- Home Record: 4-0
- Away Record: 5-0
- Neutral Record: 3-0
Nixa has been the team to beat all season, riding a balanced attack and suffocating defense to an undefeated record. They average 43.9 points per game, while allowing just 10.5 points per game, making them one of the most complete teams in the state.
Scoring Averages by Quarter
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkwood | 7.4 | 13.8 | 9.8 | 14.0 | 41.9 |
| Nixa | 0.0 | 17.5 | 14.0 | 7.0 | 43.9 |
- Kirkwood shows balance across all quarters, with a particular strength in finishing games strong.
- Nixa, however, tends to dominate the second and third quarters, often putting games out of reach before the fourth.
Key Players
Kirkwood
- #7 Parker Mann: The heart of the defense, averaging 12.3 tackles per game, making him critical to slowing Nixa’s rushing attack.
- #1 Keivon Flint: Top receiving threat, averaging 61.5 receiving yards per game and capable of stretching defenses.
- Special Teams Unit: A reliable unit that can capitalize on field position opportunities.
Nixa
- #5 Dylan Rebura: A workhorse running back who averages an eye-popping 190.3 rushing yards per game and 20.5 points per game, making him the engine of Nixa’s offense.
- #79 Jackson Cantwell: Dominates the offensive line with an astounding 131 pancake blocks, clearing paths for the running game.
- Defense as a Whole: A cohesive unit that thrives on limiting big plays and forcing turnovers.
Team Comparison
| Category | Kirkwood | Nixa |
|---|---|---|
| Points per Game | 41.9 | 43.9 |
| Points Allowed/Game | 15.9 | 10.5 |
| Rushing Yards/Game | N/A | 253.0 |
| Passing Yards/Game | N/A | 152.9 |
| Total Yards/Game | N/A | 405.9 |
| Tackles Per Game | 71.6 | N/A |
| Sacks Per Game | 0.9 | N/A |
Nixa holds a clear statistical edge in rushing and overall offense, driven by their exceptional ground game and powerful offensive line.
Key Factors to Watch
- Nixa’s Rushing Attack: Can Kirkwood contain Dylan Rebura and Nixa’s dominant offensive line?
- Kirkwood’s Defensive Pressure: Generating turnovers and making key stops will be essential to slowing down Nixa’s offense.
- Late-Game Execution: If Kirkwood can stay within striking distance, their strong fourth-quarter scoring could shift momentum.
- Special Teams and Field Position: In a close playoff game, small details like punting and kicking could play a pivotal role.
Head-to-Head Dynamics
This will be the first meeting between the two teams this season. Both enter with impressive playoff résumés, making this a clash of top contenders.
Prediction
While Kirkwood’s balanced offense and late-game heroics are impressive, Nixa’s dominance on both sides of the ball, coupled with their elite rushing attack, makes them tough to beat. Expect Kirkwood to challenge early, but Nixa’s depth and talent should ultimately prevail.
