The Lincoln Christian varsity football team from Tulsa, OK, will face Pauls Valley in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSSAA – Class 3A” tournament.
Lincoln Christian vs Pauls Valley Football Game Info:
What: Oklahoma High School Football
Who: Lincoln Christian vs Pauls Valley
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSSAA – Class 3A
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Game preview: Lincoln Christian vs Pauls Valley
As the Oklahoma high school football playoffs heat up, Lincoln Christian (11-0) prepares to face Pauls Valley (8-3) in a matchup that highlights the contrasting strengths of these two teams. Lincoln Christian, the top-ranked team in Class 3A, enters the game as a heavy favorite, boasting an unblemished record and one of the most dynamic offenses in the state. Pauls Valley, ranked 37th in Class 3A, will look to play the role of spoiler as they ride the momentum of their 8-3 season.
Team Performance Breakdown
Lincoln Christian Bulldogs
Lincoln Christian has been dominant all season, with a perfect 11-0 record and a scoring average of 52.3 points per game. Their offensive juggernaut has amassed 575 points while allowing just 88, reflecting a balance of high-powered offense and stifling defense. The Bulldogs have demonstrated consistency in every quarter, particularly in the second quarter, where they average a staggering 22.8 points.
Key players include quarterback Carter Ricke, who leads the team with 211.3 passing yards per game, and wide receiver Kylan Schultheis, who averages 71.8 receiving yards per game. The defensive unit, anchored by players like Mason Torres, who averages 5.9 tackles per game, has been equally impressive, making Lincoln Christian the team to beat in the state.
Pauls Valley Panthers
Pauls Valley comes into the game with a respectable 8-3 record and an offense that averages 32.7 points per game. While their overall numbers are less imposing than Lincoln Christian’s, the Panthers have demonstrated resilience and competitiveness, particularly in close games. The offense is spearheaded by Braeden Baker, who leads the rushing attack with 61.8 yards per game, while quarterback Carter Ricke also provides leadership with his 221.5 total yards per game.
Defensively, Pauls Valley faces a steep challenge. They’ve allowed 264 points over the season, and their secondary will need to step up to contain Lincoln Christian’s high-octane passing attack.
Key Comparisons
- Scoring Efficiency: Lincoln Christian scores nearly 20 points more per game than Pauls Valley, making it crucial for the Panthers to slow down the pace of the game.
- Common Opponent: Both teams faced Heritage Hall, with drastically different outcomes. Pauls Valley fell 41-36, while Lincoln Christian emerged victorious 28-20. This suggests Lincoln Christian’s ability to control high-pressure matchups.
- Defensive Strength: Lincoln Christian’s defense has been dominant, allowing just 8 points per game on average, compared to Pauls Valley’s 24.
The Path to Victory
For Pauls Valley, controlling time of possession will be critical. A strong ground game led by Baker and mistake-free football from Ricke can keep Lincoln Christian’s offense off the field. Defensively, Pauls Valley must force turnovers and capitalize on every opportunity.
Lincoln Christian, on the other hand, simply needs to maintain its season-long formula: explosive offense and disciplined defense. If the Bulldogs can establish an early lead, their defense has the capability to make it nearly impossible for Pauls Valley to mount a comeback.
Prediction
While Pauls Valley has had a strong season and the talent to challenge Lincoln Christian, the Bulldogs’ consistent dominance makes them the overwhelming favorite. Look for Lincoln Christian to continue their march toward a state title with a commanding performance.
Final Score Prediction: Lincoln Christian 42, Pauls Valley 14.
