The 2024 MSHSAA Missouri High School Football Playoff features the De Smet Jesuit Spartans (St. Louis, MO) vs. the Nixa Eagles (Nixa, MO) in a neutral playoff game. This exciting matchup is scheduled for Friday, December 6, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: De Smet Jesuit Spartans (MO) vs Nixa Eagles (MO)
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m ET
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 6
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: De Smet Jesuit Spartans (MO) vs Nixa Eagles (MO)
The De Smet Jesuit Spartans (12-2) will face the Nixa Eagles (13-0) in what promises to be a thrilling matchup between two highly-ranked teams. Nixa enters the game with an undefeated record and has dominated opponents throughout the season, while De Smet Jesuit has been strong, particularly in their non-district matchups. This game will feature some of the top players in Missouri, and it’s expected to be a high-intensity contest.
Season Recap: De Smet Jesuit Spartans
- Record: 12-2
- District Record: 3-1
- Points For/Against: 499 PF, 211 PA
- Scoring Average: 35.6 points per game
De Smet Jesuit has been one of the top teams in Missouri this season, boasting a strong overall record. Their offense, led by Dylan Rebura (rushing yards: 201.5 per game) and Keivon Flint (receiving yards: 56.4 per game), is powerful and balanced. They have a well-rounded attack, featuring both a potent rushing game and solid passing. The Spartans will need to execute both aspects of their offense well to challenge Nixa’s high-scoring team.
Season Recap: Nixa Eagles
- Record: 13-0
- District Record: 9-0
- Points For/Against: 583 PF, 172 PA
- Scoring Average: 44.8 points per game
Nixa enters the game undefeated, having averaged nearly 45 points per game while allowing just over 12 points. Their offense is explosive, and they’ve shown the ability to score in all phases of the game. With a strong rushing attack and quarterback Adam McKnight leading the offense (passing yards: 131.3 per game), Nixa has been able to outpace most opponents. Their defense has been equally formidable, giving them a well-rounded approach.
Key Matchups
- De Smet Jesuit’s Rushing Attack vs. Nixa’s Defense:
De Smet Jesuit’s offense is largely powered by the ground game, led by Dylan Rebura. Nixa will need to contain him to prevent long drives and scoring opportunities. A successful rushing game for De Smet Jesuit could keep Nixa’s offense off the field. - Quarterback Play:
Nixa’s Adam McKnight and De Smet Jesuit’s Adam McKnight will be key to each team’s passing game. Both teams rely on efficient passing to complement their rushing attack, and the quarterback’s ability to execute plays under pressure could be a deciding factor. - Defensive Play:
De Smet Jesuit’s defense, with players like Parker Mann (12.5 tackles per game), will need to step up and contain Nixa’s explosive offense. Nixa’s defense has also been solid, but they will need to match the physicality of De Smet Jesuit’s ground game.
Team Scoring Trends
- De Smet Jesuit averages 35.6 points per game, with a strong first half (9.0 in Q1, 11.0 in Q2) but slower finishes in Q3 and Q4. They will need to maintain their intensity throughout the game against Nixa.
- Nixa is highly efficient throughout the game, particularly in the middle quarters (17.5 in Q2 and 14.0 in Q3), which gives them a strong foundation to build a lead and hold it.
Common Opponents:
Both teams are undefeated against their common opponents, showing their dominance in their respective districts. However, they have not played each other before, and this game will be the first real head-to-head comparison.
Prediction:
Nixa enters this game as the slight favorite, thanks to their undefeated record and high-powered offense. However, De Smet Jesuit has proven themselves to be a dangerous team with a strong offense and solid defense. If De Smet Jesuit can control the clock and limit Nixa’s offensive opportunities, they might have a shot. Still, Nixa’s overall depth and consistency make them the likely winner.
