Class 6A Top Games to Watch: Round 1

A Thursday upset alert and three tough matchups highlight the first round of Class 6A Playoffs.

Thursday, July 28th 2011, 5:54 pm

By: News On 6

Originally Published: Nov 9, 2010 11:0 PM CDT

Gerald Goodridge
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Sparks are set to fly as teams begin their chase for the Class 6A Gold Ball and it’s win or go home.

Several top offenses face off in first round matchups, while one of the top teams in the state may be on upset alert.

Bartlesville Bruins (7-3, 5-2) at Broken Arrow Tigers (8-2, 6-1)

This matchup will feature plenty of fireworks as two of the most high-powered offenses in the class face off. Broken Arrow averaged 44.4 points per game this season and scored more than 50 points on five different occasions. The Bruins were nearly as potent, averaging 39.8 points per game, and scored less than 40 points on just four occasions. The teams also boast two of the state’s top signal callers, Bartlesville’s Kirby Schoenthaler and Broken Arrow’s Archie Bradley. Schoenthaler racked up 2,116 yards and 22 touchdowns, while Bradley easily has one of the biggest arms in the state – he’s a Top-10 MLB pitching prospect.

Norman Tigers (8-2, 5-2) at Owasso Rams (6-4, 5-2)

When the Norman Tigers travel to Owasso, it will be a battle of strength on strength. The Tigers have been getting it done with defense all season, allowing just 16.1 points per game. Owasso heated up late to secure a playoff spot and averaged 43.6 points per game over the last three games of the season. Dynamic running back Donovan Roberts leads the Tigers’ offense, racking up 25 touchdowns this year and rushing for more than six yards per carry. Owasso quarterback Kayson Key has put up big numbers as well this season, passing for 1,718 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Eisenhower Eagles (7-3, 5-2) at Mustang Broncos (7-3, 5-2)

Another possible shootout when Eisenhower and Mustang face off, despite their conflicting offensive styles. Ike averages 30 points per game, paced by running back Louis Durant, who averages 126.2 yards per game and scored 18 touchdowns in 10 contests. The Broncos sling the ball around en route to 41.8 points per game average. Quarterback Brandon Taylor passed for more than 3,000 yards and scored 32 touchdowns, while only throwing 11 interceptions. Receiver David Glidden showed why he’s such a feared opponent, scoring 15 touchdowns and averaging nearly 20 yards per reception.

Edmond Memorial Bulldogs (7-3, 4-3) at Lawton Wolverines (10-0, 7-0) (Thursday)

The matchup may be the one to watch, and not just because it is the only Thursday night game of the opening round. Edmond Memorial, by their coach’s own admission, has been in do-or-die mode since the loss to Midwest City, so they are used to the playoff atmosphere. In addition to the playoff spirit, the Bulldogs were sparked by the return of quarterback Kameron Doolittle, and scored 69 points in his two games back. Lawton steamrolled its way to an undefeated district title, save for a one-point, district opening win against Mustang. The Wolverines are one of the most talented teams in the state, boasting at least three Division-1 prospects in the lineup.