The 2024 MSHSAA Missouri High School Football Playoff features the Lamar Tigers (Lamar, MO) vs. the Fair Grove Eagles (Fair Grove, MO) in a neutral playoff game. This exciting matchup is scheduled for Friday, December 6, at 3:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: Lamar Tigers (MO) vs Fair Grove Eagles (MO)
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Time: 3:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 2
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Lamar Tigers (MO) vs Fair Grove Eagles (MO)
The Lamar Tigers (12-4) will face off against the undefeated Fair Grove Eagles (14-0) in a highly anticipated matchup. Fair Grove has been a powerhouse this season, running through their opponents with a perfect record, while Lamar has had a strong, albeit more inconsistent season with a 12-4 record. Despite Lamar’s solid performance, Fair Grove’s dominant offense and perfect season make them the clear favorite.
Season Recap: Lamar Tigers
- Record: 12-4
- District Record: 3-4
- Points For/Against: 560 PF, 305 PA
- Scoring Average: 35.0 points per game
Lamar has been a strong team this season, averaging 35 points per game. However, they have struggled with consistency, especially in district play where they went 3-4. Lamar’s offense is centered around their strong rushing attack, with key players like Kellen Lair leading the charge. The Tigers will need to control the ball and keep Fair Grove’s high-powered offense off the field if they want a chance to win.
Season Recap: Fair Grove Eagles
- Record: 14-0
- District Record: 3-0
- Points For/Against: 614 PF, 187 PA
- Scoring Average: 43.9 points per game
Fair Grove has been nothing short of spectacular this season, scoring an average of nearly 44 points per game. Their offense has been efficient and explosive, especially in the first half of games where they score an average of 28.5 points. With a perfect record and a dominant offense, Fair Grove has proven themselves to be one of the top teams in Missouri this season.
Key Matchups
- Lamar’s Defense vs. Fair Grove’s Offense:
Lamar’s defense will face a tough task trying to slow down Fair Grove’s fast-paced offense. The Tigers have allowed an average of 21.8 points per game, but Fair Grove’s offensive firepower could overwhelm them. - Quarterback Play:
Fair Grove’s quarterback has been exceptional, helping lead their offense with a passing average of 123.9 yards per game. Lamar will need to pressure the quarterback and force mistakes to have a shot at containing the offense. - Turnover Battle:
Lamar will need to avoid turnovers, as Fair Grove has shown that they can capitalize on any mistakes.
Team Scoring Trends
- Lamar has had strong performances, especially in the first and fourth quarters, averaging 8.3 and 20.7 points respectively. However, they will need to maintain that momentum throughout all four quarters against an offense as potent as Fair Grove’s.
- Fair Grove has been strong throughout the game, particularly in the first half, and can score quickly. They’ve averaged 28.5 points in the first half alone.
Common Opponents:
Neither team has faced a common opponent this season, so there is little to compare them on directly.
Prediction:
Fair Grove enters this game as the clear favorite with their undefeated record and high-scoring offense. Lamar’s best chance will be to control the game with their rushing attack and slow down Fair Grove’s offense, but with Fair Grove’s overwhelming offensive firepower and depth, they are likely to secure a victory.