The Warrenton varsity football team from Warrenton, MO, will face West Plains, MO, in a neutral-site playoff game on Friday, November 22.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Missouri High School Football
Who: West Plains vs Warrenton
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: in progress
Bracket: 2024 Missouri High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSAA – Class 4
Live Stream: Watch Here
Game Preview: West Plains vs. Warrenton
The West Plains Zizzers (8-3) will face the Warrenton Warriors (11-0) in an exciting playoff showdown. While Warrenton has had a perfect season so far, West Plains has shown its ability to compete with tough opponents, making this a potentially intriguing matchup. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from both teams.
Season Recap: West Plains
- Record: 8-3
- Points For/Against: 341 PF, 253 PA
- Scoring Average: 31.0 points per game
West Plains has been a competitive force this season, especially within their district, where they posted a 3-1 record. Their offense averages over 31 points per game, but their defense has been tested by some of the higher-scoring teams on their schedule. West Plains will need to maintain a balanced attack and capitalize on any mistakes made by Warrenton.
Key Performances:
- Offense: West Plains’ offense has been efficient but not explosive, scoring an average of 31 points per game. Their ability to sustain drives and control the tempo will be crucial against Warrenton.
- Defense: The defense will need to step up, as they’ve allowed 253 points on the season, but they’ve faced some high-powered offenses. Their success in limiting big plays could be a deciding factor.
Season Recap: Warrenton
- Record: 11-0
- Points For/Against: 426 PF, 150 PA
- Scoring Average: 38.7 points per game
Warrenton has been a juggernaut all season, finishing with a perfect record and dominating their opponents on both sides of the ball. With a 38.7 points per game scoring average and a defense that has only allowed 150 points throughout the season, they come into this game as the heavy favorite.
Key Performances:
- Offense: Warrenton has a potent offense capable of scoring at will. They’ve averaged almost 39 points per game and will look to keep that momentum going in the playoffs.
- Defense: Warrenton’s defense has been equally impressive, allowing only 150 points this season. Their ability to shut down opponents will be crucial in stifling West Plains’ offense.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | West Plains | Warrenton |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Passing Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Total Yards Per Game | – | – |
| Points Per Game | 31.0 | 38.7 |
Record Breakdown
| Category | West Plains | Warrenton |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 8-3 | 11-0 |
| League Record | 3-1 | 3-2 |
| Non-League Record | 3-2 | 9-0 |
| Playoff Record | 2-0 | 8-2 |
Key Players to Watch
- West Plains:
- Offensive Line: West Plains’ offensive line will need to protect their quarterback and create running lanes. They’ll be tasked with slowing down Warrenton’s strong defense.
- Quarterback/Skill Players: The Zizzers will need strong performances from their quarterback and skill players to keep pace with Warrenton’s high-scoring offense.
- Warrenton:
- Quarterback/Offensive Playmakers: Warrenton’s quarterback and playmakers have been key to their perfect season. They’ll need to stay sharp and execute at a high level.
- Defensive Line/Secondary: Warrenton’s defense has been formidable all season. Their front seven will need to pressure West Plains’ offense, while their secondary ensures they don’t give up big plays.
Keys to Victory
For West Plains:
- Control the Clock: West Plains needs to maintain possession of the ball to keep Warrenton’s offense off the field. A strong running game and efficient passing attack will be crucial.
- Limit Turnovers: Warrenton is a fast-scoring team, so any turnovers could lead to quick points. West Plains must secure the ball and avoid giving Warrenton short fields.
- Defensive Stand: West Plains will need a big performance from their defense to stop Warrenton’s high-powered offense. Getting stops and limiting long drives will be essential.
For Warrenton:
- Exploit Offensive Depth: Warrenton’s offense has been versatile, and they’ll look to spread the ball around to keep West Plains off-balance.
- Pressure the Quarterback: With West Plains needing to pass the ball to keep up, Warrenton’s defense should focus on putting pressure on the quarterback to force mistakes.
- Keep Scoring: Warrenton’s offense is averaging almost 39 points per game, and they should stick to their high-tempo, high-scoring style to outpace West Plains.
Prediction:
Warrenton enters this matchup as the clear favorite. Their perfect season, combined with a stifling defense and potent offense, gives them the upper hand. West Plains has the ability to compete, but they will need to play a near-perfect game to keep up with Warrenton’s firepower. Despite West Plains’ solid play this season, it’s hard to see them stopping Warrenton’s momentum.
