As the playoffs near for the 2024 football season, Okmulgee County high school football teams face pivotal games tonight. Here’s a breakdown of what fans can expect under the lights, with teams striving to end the season strong and set themselves up for postseason success.

— Dewar vs. Keota

In one of the most anticipated games of the season, the Dewar Dragons (7-1) are set to face the Keota Lions (6-2) at home on Friday night for their Homecoming. Dewar has been on a roll, securing another impressive victory last week, 53-6 over Quinton. With seven wins by 26 points or more, the Dragons’ offense is nothing short of prolific, led by standout running back Kyla Bear, who has been a consistent threat on the ground.

Keota, coming off a nail-biting 33-32 loss to Caddo, will bring their own high-powered offense to the field. With both teams boasting potent scoring abilities, fans can expect a thrilling, high-scoring matchup as Dewar looks to keep its homecoming crowd energized and extend its 10-game home winning streak.

— Wilson @ Copan

The Wilson Tigers (6-1), coached by Matt LeGrand, are heading north to take on the undefeated Copan Hornets. Wilson’s offense, which averages 45 points per game, will be up against Copan’s equally impressive offense, which is averaging 52 points per game. The Tigers have consistently shown their offensive firepower, making this matchup a likely high-scoring battle that could go down to the wire.

This Friday’s clash will be a test of resilience for Wilson as they seek to spoil Copan’s undefeated streak and make a statement as playoffs approach.

— Henryetta vs. Spiro

After two weeks on the road, the Henryetta Knights (6-2) return to their home field with momentum and an eye toward the playoffs. The Knights were dominant in their last outing, shutting out the Antlers Bearcats 34-0. Henryetta’s offense, led by standout players Jason Powders and Brady Norman, has been a powerhouse, averaging nearly 38 points per game, and the team has consistently posted high-margin victories this season.

Spiro (3-5) has some offensive spark of its own, courtesy of quarterback Brycen Graham, who threw for 372 yards and added a rushing touchdown against Atoka last week. Graham’s main target, Jayden Berry, helped Spiro edge out a 28-21

SEE FRIDAY NIGHT MATCHUPS, PAGE B2 victory. Henryetta will need to contain Spiro’s air attack while maintaining their rushing dominance, averaging 252.9 rushing yards per game. This clash promises to be a showdown between Henryetta’s ground game and Spiro’s passing prowess.

— Beggs vs. Tishomingo

After a commanding 48-8 win over Coalgate last Friday, the Beggs Demons (6-2) are ready to continue their winning streak as they take on Tishomingo. The Demons’ explosive offense, led by quarterback Billy Ramsey, has delivered big performances, with Ramsey passing for 269 yards and four touchdowns last week. Wide receiver Ryan Grayson showcased his skills with three receptions for 136 yards and two touchdowns. Other Demons adding to the score were Jordan Wesley (2 TDs), Andrew Haynes, Trey Ross with one TD each.

With Ramsey’s accuracy, and a stable of great athletes at the ready, Beggs is poised for another high-scoring game.

Tishomingo, struggling at 0-7, showed some spark in their narrow 32-26 loss to Dibble, their highest-scoring game of the season. They’ll be hoping to capitalize on that momentum, but they’ll face a tough challenge against a Beggs squad that’s scored over 39 points in three of their games this season.

— Okmulgee vs. Bethel

The Okmulgee Bulldogs (0-8) are looking to bounce back on Senior Night after a tough 5928 loss to Heavener last week. Despite the score, the Bulldogs showed glimpses of offensive strength, posting their highest score of the season. Heavener’s Carson Payne was a force on the field, rushing for 149 yards and four touchdowns, but Okmulgee’s home crowd will be ready to rally their team to break their winless streak against Bethel on Friday night.

Bethel’s high-powered offense has been averaging 27 points per game, a stat Okmulgee’s defense will need to counter. A big showing from Okmulgee’s offense could make this matchup a memorable one as the Bulldogs look to give fans something to cheer about in their final home game of the season.

— Morris @ Vian

The Morris Eagles (0-8) are in search of their first win of the season as they hit the road to face the undefeated Vian Wolverines (8-0). Vian, boasting a season-long unbeaten record and a string of blowout victories, defeated Wilburton last week 56-13 with impressive rushing performances. Running back Masyn Wright, who scored three touchdowns and tallied 170 yards on the ground, is a key player to watch as the Wolverines continue their dominant season.

Morris, looking to rebound from last week’s 42-6 loss to Valliant, will need to bring strong defensive pressure to disrupt Vian’s relentless rushing attack. Fans traveling to Vian should note the stadium’s no-backpack policy, though small items like purses are permitted.

– With each game presenting unique challenges and opportunities, Okmulgee County teams are set to bring intensity to the field this Friday. Fans are encouraged to show up in force, support their local teams, and enjoy what promises to be an exciting night of high school football across the county.