The Oak Grove varsity football team from Hattiesburg, MS, will face Ocean Springs, MS, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Mississippi High School Football
Who: Ocean Springs vs Oak Grove
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Bracket: 2024 Football Championships – 7A
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: Ocean Springs vs. Oak Grove
The Ocean Springs Greyhounds (7-4) will face the Oak Grove Warriors (8-3) in a neutral-site playoff game on November 22, marking their second meeting of the season. Oak Grove won the earlier matchup 35-21, but both teams have continued to improve as the season has progressed. With both teams coming off strong regular seasons, this matchup promises to be highly competitive.
Season Recap: Ocean Springs Greyhounds
- Record: 7-4
- District Record: 5-0
- Points For/Against: 348 PF, 210 PA
- Scoring Average: 31.6 points per game
Ocean Springs has been a formidable team, especially in district play where they remain undefeated. The Greyhounds are known for their strong rushing attack led by Will Smith, who has been an anchor for their offense. While their defense has allowed more points than Oak Grove, they have shown the ability to score quickly and make big plays when needed.
Key Performances:
- Rushing Game: Will Smith is a key player, leading the team with 102.7 rushing yards per game.
- Defense: Jacolby Bailey has been strong with 7.8 tackles per game, anchoring a defense that will need to step up against Oak Grove’s high-powered offense.
- Total Yards: Sharroid Whitehead has been a standout with 133.1 total yards per game, contributing in both rushing and receiving roles.
Season Recap: Oak Grove Warriors
- Record: 8-3
- District Record: 4-1
- Points For/Against: 382 PF, 272 PA
- Scoring Average: 34.7 points per game
Oak Grove has had a solid season, with their offense scoring nearly 35 points per game. They were strong in district play, finishing with just one loss. Their offense has been dynamic, and although their defense allows more points than Ocean Springs, they have been able to outscore their opponents in most games. Oak Grove’s ability to generate big plays has been crucial to their success.
Key Performances:
- Offensive Power: Oak Grove doesn’t have standout individual statistics like Ocean Springs but has a well-balanced offensive attack that makes them dangerous.
- Total Yards: Sharroid Whitehead of Ocean Springs is a key player to watch against Oak Grove’s defense, but Oak Grove’s ability to score at multiple levels makes them hard to stop.
- Scoring Ability: Oak Grove’s strong offensive line and skilled backfield have allowed them to be a high-scoring team all year.
Head-to-Head:
The two teams met earlier this season on September 6, 2024, where Oak Grove defeated Ocean Springs 35-21. While Ocean Springs made a strong second-half comeback, they could not overcome Oak Grove’s initial lead.
Common Opponents Analysis
| Opponent | Ocean Springs Result | Oak Grove Result |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Rankin | L, 29-28 | W, 59-27 |
| Biloxi | W, 34-14 | W, 34-20 |
Ocean Springs lost a close game to Northwest Rankin, whereas Oak Grove dominated their matchup with the same team. However, both teams were dominant against Biloxi.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Ocean Springs | Oak Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 221.5 | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 97.1 | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | 318.5 | – |
| Points Per Game | 30.0 | 34.7 |
| Tackles Per Game | 65.0 | – |
| Sacks Per Game | 3.0 | – |
Oak Grove’s offense has been productive, while Ocean Springs has relied heavily on their rushing attack and defense. Oak Grove scores more points per game and has a strong passing attack to balance their run game.
Keys to Victory
For Ocean Springs:
- Control the Clock: With Will Smith and a strong running game, Ocean Springs will look to control the clock and limit Oak Grove’s offensive possessions.
- Pressure on Defense: Ocean Springs needs to apply pressure on Oak Grove’s quarterback and disrupt their passing game.
- Avoid Turnovers: Limiting mistakes will be crucial for Ocean Springs to keep Oak Grove from exploiting any weaknesses.
For Oak Grove:
- Exploit Ocean Springs’ Defense: Oak Grove’s balanced attack should look to exploit weaknesses in the Greyhounds’ defense, especially in the passing game.
- Speed and Big Plays: Utilizing speed on the outside and executing explosive plays will help Oak Grove build a lead.
- Win the Battle of Field Position: Oak Grove’s defense needs to put pressure on Ocean Springs’ offense and prevent long drives.
Prediction:
While Ocean Springs has the advantage in rushing and defense, Oak Grove’s ability to score at a higher rate and generate big plays should give them the edge in this playoff matchup. Oak Grove’s dynamic offense and solid defensive plays will likely lead them to another win.
