The Oak Grove (LA) varsity football team will host Mansfield (LA) in a home playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 LHSAA Football Playoffs (Louisiana) – Division III Non-Select tournament.

What: Louisiana High School Football
Who: Oak Grove (LA) vs Mansfield (LA)
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where: Oak Grove High School
Bracket: 2024 LHSAA Football Playoffs (Louisiana) – Division III Non-Select
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network

Mansfield vs. Oak Grove: A Clash of Titans in Louisiana High School Football

The stage is set for an exciting showdown between Mansfield and Oak Grove in the Louisiana high school football scene. With impressive records, standout players, and a history of competitive play, this matchup promises to be one to remember. Let’s take a closer look at the teams, their performances, and how they stack up against each other.

Team Overview

Mansfield (7-4 overall, 3-1 in district play) has shown a solid performance throughout the season, particularly in their district games, where they boasted a .750 win percentage. Their offense has been potent, averaging 37.6 points per game, with a balanced attack of rushing and passing. The team scored a total of 414 points, while allowing 287. On offense, Terrell Pegues has been a key contributor, rushing for an average of 106.6 yards per game.

On the other hand, Oak Grove has been even more dominant, with a record of 9-1 overall, including an undefeated 7-0 district performance. They have been nearly unstoppable, averaging 47.6 points per game and accumulating 476 total points on the season, while allowing only 166. Oak Grove’s offense has been incredibly efficient, with Jay Freeman leading the charge, averaging 117.6 rushing yards per game. Their defense has been equally impressive, posting a stifling defensive record.

Scoring Breakdown

The scoring patterns of both teams provide further insight into their strengths. Mansfield typically has strong second-quarter performances, averaging 17.3 points in that period. Oak Grove, however, is consistent across all four quarters, scoring an average of 17.1 points in the first quarter alone, setting the tone early in games.

In the second half, Mansfield’s offensive production drops slightly, especially in the fourth quarter, where they average just 4.5 points. Oak Grove, meanwhile, maintains a steady pace, scoring 4.7 points in the fourth quarter to close out games strong.

Statistical Comparison

When we compare the teams statistically, it’s clear that both sides are strong, but Oak Grove edges out Mansfield in nearly every major category:

• Rushing Yards Per Game: Mansfield averages 247.5 yards, closely trailing Oak Grove’s 244.7 yards.
• Passing Yards Per Game: Mansfield has 100.1 yards on average, while Oak Grove surpasses them with 172.2 yards.
• Total Yards Per Game: Oak Grove also leads here with 416.9 yards compared to Mansfield’s 347.6 yards.
• Points Per Game: Oak Grove has a higher scoring average of 42.9 points per game, compared to Mansfield’s 33.5.

Despite these disparities, Mansfield has relied heavily on their leading player, Terrell Pegues, who has been a dual threat, contributing 130.4 total yards per game and averaging 12.9 points per game. Oak Grove’s standout players, Jay Freeman and Jackson Bradley, have been key contributors, with Freeman racking up 12 points per game and Bradley contributing 223.7 total yards per game.

Head-to-Head

The teams have faced common opponents, with Mansfield suffering a loss to Red River (20-12), while Oak Grove triumphed in their meeting with the same team (55-8). This result further highlights Oak Grove’s superiority in this head-to-head comparison.

Home vs. Away Performance

Home field advantage has been a key factor for both teams, but Oak Grove has been particularly dominant at home, winning all six of their home games. Mansfield, while strong at home with a 4-2 record, has had a more mixed experience on the road, finishing 3-2 away from home.

Conclusion

Both Mansfield and Oak Grove are formidable opponents, but Oak Grove’s perfect district record and overwhelming offensive production make them the team to beat in this matchup. With star players like Jay Freeman and Jackson Bradley leading the charge, Oak Grove appears poised to continue their impressive run. Mansfield, however, has proven they are no slouches, and their strong second-quarter performances and solid all-around play could lead to an upset.

As these two teams prepare for their clash, fans can expect a high-octane game filled with exciting plays and memorable moments. The outcome will likely hinge on whether Mansfield can contain Oak Grove’s explosive offense and capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Regardless, this is sure to be a thrilling encounter in Louisiana high school football.