The Nixa (MO) varsity football team will face off against Kirkwood (MO) in a neutral playoff game today, November 30, at 1 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: Kirkwood vs Nixa
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1 PM. ET
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 6
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Kirkwood (MO) vs. Nixa (MO)
The highly anticipated playoff game between Kirkwood (11-2) and Nixa (12-0) is set to showcase two teams that have dominated their seasons in different ways. Kirkwood comes in with an impressive 11-2 record, while Nixa has maintained a perfect 12-0 record throughout the season. With both teams bringing high-powered offenses and strong defenses, this matchup promises to be exciting.
Season Recap: Kirkwood
- Record: 11-2
- District Record: 3-1
- Points For/Against: 549 PF, 197 PA
- Scoring Average: 42.2 points per game
Kirkwood has had a solid season, securing 11 wins out of 13 games. Their offense, led by standout players, has been potent, averaging 42.2 points per game. The defense has allowed 197 points over the course of the season but has stepped up when needed. Kirkwood has a proven ability to perform under pressure, especially with their strong scoring in the second half of games.
Key Strengths:
- Explosive Offense: Kirkwood’s offense is high-scoring and has a variety of playmakers, including standout players in the running and passing game.
- Strong Late-Game Performance: Kirkwood tends to perform their best in the second half, averaging more points in the final two quarters of games.
Season Recap: Nixa
- Record: 12-0
- District Record: 9-0
- Points For/Against: 527 PF, 126 PA
- Scoring Average: 43.9 points per game
Nixa enters the game undefeated, with an unblemished 12-0 record. Their offense has been just as dynamic, averaging nearly 44 points per game, while their defense has allowed just 126 points all season. With a complete team effort, Nixa has demonstrated balance and consistency, dominating both offensively and defensively. They’ve been particularly strong in the first half of games, outscoring opponents in both the first and second quarters.
Key Strengths:
- Balanced Attack: Nixa’s offense is well-rounded, with strong rushing and passing games, and their defense has been elite all season.
- Unbeaten Record: Their undefeated season is a testament to their ability to dominate in all phases of the game.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Kirkwood | Nixa |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 11-2 | 12-0 |
| District Record | 3-1 | 9-0 |
| Points For | 549 | 527 |
| Points Against | 197 | 126 |
| Scoring Average | 42.2 | 43.9 |
| Rushing Yards per Game | 253.0 | – |
| Passing Yards per Game | 152.9 | – |
| Receiving Yards per Game | 154.3 | – |
| Total Yards per Game | 405.9 | – |
| Tackles per Game | 71.6 | – |
| Sacks per Game | 0.9 | – |
| Pancake Blocks | 414 | – |
Key Matchups
- Kirkwood’s High-Scoring Offense vs. Nixa’s Elite Defense
Kirkwood’s explosive offense will face one of the most stifling defenses in the state. Nixa’s defense has been exceptional this year, allowing only 126 points in 12 games. Can Kirkwood’s offense outscore Nixa’s defense, or will Nixa continue their shut-down defensive play? - Kirkwood’s Balanced Attack vs. Nixa’s Complete Team
While Kirkwood has had success on both the ground and in the air, Nixa’s well-rounded squad is tough to beat. Nixa’s ability to play both sides of the ball effectively will be tested against a high-scoring Kirkwood offense.
Key Players to Watch
Kirkwood
- Dylan Rebura (Rushing): With over 190 rushing yards per game, Rebura has been the engine for Kirkwood’s offense.
- Adam McKnight (Passing): McKnight is a solid quarterback who has made key plays when necessary.
- Keivon Flint (Receiving): Flint is a playmaker in the passing game and can turn any catch into a big gain.
- Parker Mann (Defense): Mann is a key defender for Kirkwood, known for making tackles and playing hard.
Nixa
- Rushing Attack: Nixa has multiple players contributing to their ground game. They are consistently strong in the run, controlling the clock and dictating tempo.
- Quarterback Play: Nixa’s quarterback is crucial for both their passing and running game, and he will need to manage the offense effectively to keep Kirkwood on their heels.
- Defensive Line: The Nixa defensive line has been a brick wall this season, making it tough for opposing offenses to establish a rhythm.
Prediction
Nixa’s undefeated record and well-rounded game make them a tough opponent. While Kirkwood’s offense is high-scoring, Nixa’s defense and ability to control the game with a balanced attack give them the edge in this matchup.
