The Stillwater (OK) varsity football team will face Putnam City North (Oklahoma City, OK) in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22, at 7:00 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 OSSAA Class 6A-II Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets.

Stillwater vs Putnam City North Football Game Info:

What: Oklahoma High School Football
Who: Stillwater vs Putnam City North
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM
Bracket: 2024 Oklahoma High School Football Playoff Brackets: OSSAA – Class 6A-II
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Game preview: Stillwater vs Putnam City North

In a battle of two Oklahoma high school football powerhouses, Stillwater (8-2) and Putnam City North (8-3) are set to clash in what promises to be an exciting game. Both teams boast impressive seasons and records, but their contrasting styles and statistics set the stage for a thrilling contest.

Team Records and Rankings

Stillwater enters the game ranked 22nd in the state and 3rd in their class, while Putnam City North holds the 43rd spot statewide and 5th in their class. Despite close records, Stillwater’s dominance in district play (6-1) and their 42.2 points-per-game scoring average highlight their superior offensive firepower.

Putnam City North, on the other hand, has excelled defensively, allowing only 153 points across the season. With a 5-2 district record, they’ve shown they can grind out wins, evidenced by their 21-0 playoff shutout against Southmoore last week.

Offensive Firepower

Stillwater’s offense, led by quarterback Mason Schubert, is a potent unit averaging 361.6 yards per game. Schubert has been a standout with 155.7 passing yards per game and a team-leading 187 total yards per game. Wide receiver Deakon Jones adds an aerial threat with 67.8 receiving yards per game.

Putnam City North leans on a more balanced attack, with quarterback Mason Jones contributing 118.6 passing yards per game and running back Milton Alford averaging 105.2 rushing yards. Alford has been pivotal, scoring 9.6 points per game to pace the Panthers.

Defensive Showdown

Defensively, the teams differ in style and effectiveness. Stillwater averages 67.7 tackles per game, with linebacker Athan Nickles leading the way at 8.5 tackles per game. Meanwhile, Putnam City North has been more aggressive in pressuring quarterbacks, tallying 3.4 sacks per game, led by Carter Pierce with 2.0 per game.

Common Opponents and Recent Results

Both teams share Southmoore and Putnam City as common opponents, with Stillwater going undefeated in these matchups while Putnam City North suffered a loss to Putnam City earlier in the season. However, Putnam City North avenged that result with dominant wins over Southmoore, including their recent playoff victory.

Keys to Victory

For Stillwater, maintaining their high-powered offense will be crucial. Schubert’s ability to spread the ball and the offensive line’s consistency in creating opportunities for their rushers could overwhelm the Panthers.

Putnam City North’s chances hinge on controlling the pace of the game. Milton Alford and the ground game must perform well to keep Stillwater’s offense off the field, while their defense must generate pressure on Schubert to disrupt Stillwater’s rhythm.

Prediction

While both teams have had strong seasons, Stillwater’s offensive firepower and consistency in district play give them a slight edge. However, Putnam City North’s resilience and defensive strength mean this matchup could go down to the wire.

Final Score Prediction: Stillwater 31, Putnam City North 24

This game promises to be a showcase of Oklahoma high school football at its finest, with playoff hopes and pride on the line.