The Kearney (MO) varsity football team is set to face Lutheran North (St. Louis, MO) in a neutral playoff game on Friday, November 29.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: Lutheran North vs Kearney
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: in progress
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 4
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Lutheran North vs. Kearney
This Missouri high school football playoff matchup between Lutheran North (11-1) and Kearney (12-0) promises to be an exciting and highly competitive game. Both teams have been dominant this season, with Kearney remaining undefeated and Lutheran North posting only one loss.
Season Recap: Lutheran North
- Record: 11-1
- District: 4-0
- Points For/Against: 616 PF, 161 PA
- Scoring Average: 51.3 points per game
Lutheran North has been a powerhouse this season, averaging over 50 points per game. Their ability to score consistently in all four quarters, especially in the first (17.3 points per game), shows they can come out fast and set the tone. Their lone loss came earlier in the season, but they’ve since bounced back to be one of the top contenders.
Key Strengths:
- Explosive offense, especially in the first half.
- A high-scoring attack that has amassed over 600 points this season.
- A dominant defense, allowing only 161 points.
Season Recap: Kearney
- Record: 12-0
- District: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 508 PF, 91 PA
- Scoring Average: 42.3 points per game
Kearney has been nearly perfect this season, with a 12-0 record. Their defense has been incredibly stout, allowing only 91 points all season, making them one of the most impressive defensive teams in Missouri. Kearney’s offense, led by a balanced attack, scores over 40 points per game, which has helped them dominate opponents.
Key Strengths:
- Impressive defense, allowing just 91 points this season.
- Balanced offensive attack, able to score at will.
- Undefeated in all competition, including district play.
Team Stat Comparison
| Category | Lutheran North | Kearney |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Average | 51.3 | 42.3 |
| Rushing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 13.4 | 7.6 |
Key Matchups
- Lutheran North’s Explosive Offense vs. Kearney’s Stifling Defense
- Lutheran North’s high-powered offense, averaging 51.3 points per game, will face off against Kearney’s defense, which has allowed just 7.6 points per game. Kearney will need to contain Lutheran North’s offensive weapons to maintain their unbeaten record.
- Kearney’s Offensive Balance vs. Lutheran North’s Defense
- Kearney has a balanced offense that can score in various ways. Lutheran North’s defense, while strong, will be challenged to slow down Kearney’s diverse attack.
- Special Teams Play and Field Position
- In a close playoff game, special teams can often play a significant role. The team that can win the field position battle will have an advantage, especially in terms of setting up their offense with good starting positions.
Record Breakdown
| Category | Lutheran North | Kearney |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 11-1 | 12-0 |
| District Record | 4-0 | 5-0 |
| Non-District Record | 4-0 | 0-0 |
| Home Record | 2-0 | 6-1 |
| Away Record | 6-1 | 3-0 |
| Neutral Site Record | 3-0 | 3-0 |
| Playoff Record | 3-0 | 3-0 |
Key Players
Lutheran North
- Offensive Playmakers: Lutheran North has been able to put up big numbers across all positions. While specific player statistics are not provided, their overall performance suggests a potent passing and running attack that works in tandem to keep defenses on their heels.
Kearney
- Balanced Attack: Kearney has several key players, but their ability to spread the ball around and control the game clock will be crucial in this matchup.
- Defense: With the defense allowing less than 8 points per game, Kearney’s defense will play a pivotal role in shutting down Lutheran North’s potent offense.
Prediction
This game will be a battle of contrasts: Lutheran North’s dynamic offense against Kearney’s impenetrable defense. Given Kearney’s unbeaten record and their ability to both score and defend, they will likely be slight favorites. However, Lutheran North’s explosive offense and playoff experience should keep them in the game until the final whistle.
