OZARK, Mo. — Nixa football used explosive plays and a balanced offensive attack to pull away from Ozark for a 45-28 victory Friday night in the Backyard Brawl at Ozark High School.

The Eagles struck first and carried a 7-0 advantage into the second quarter before the rivalry matchup opened up offensively.

Ozark twice found the end zone during the quarter, but Nixa continued to answer and entered halftime with a 24-14 advantage.

The Eagles delivered their biggest stretch of the night coming out of the break.

Nixa scored 14 unanswered points in the third quarter, highlighted by one of the game's defining plays when quarterback Adam McKnight connected with Jax Adams for a 98-yard touchdown. The explosive score helped the Eagles take control and extend their advantage to 38-14 heading into the fourth quarter.

Ozark continued to battle, scoring twice in the final period, but Nixa added another touchdown of its own and maintained a multiple-score advantage to close out the 45-28 victory.

McKnight turned in an efficient performance through the air, completing 19 of 22 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Adams provided the Eagles with production both on the ground and through the air, rushing 17 times for 143 yards and a touchdown while adding a 98-yard touchdown reception.

Carter Mabe helped keep the passing game moving throughout the night, hauling in 10 receptions for 85 yards. Nixa finished with 465 total yards, including 269 through the air and 196 on the ground.

Defensively, Reed Wilson led the Eagles with 16 tackles, while Weston Weldon added 10 and Caden Bledsoe recorded nine.

Special teams also helped Nixa consistently create favorable field position. Josh Ford totaled 112 yards on three kickoff returns, averaging more than 37 yards per return.

The victory moved Nixa to 4-1 on the season. The Eagles return home Thursday, Oct. 1, to face Kickapoo.

Click here to view game stats.

Local Media Coverage:
Christian County Headliner Recap
Ozark Sports Zone Photos
Ozark Sports Zone Video

 

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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