Inside the Missouri Hannibal vs. West Plains Playoff Clash

This is what playoff football in any state strives to be. Two programs that have a culture of achievement, an environment of family and a history of winning. West Plains and Hannibal both check these boxes. Fitting then that they meet for the third time over the last five years in the Class 4 Missouri state quarterfinals.

Porter Stadium - Hannibal, Missouri

In 2021 the Pirates beat West Plains 35-26. A year later West Plains defeated Hannibal 29-14. Last year both teams had their seasons ended by Warrenton. The rubber match takes place at Porter Stadium Friday night, and the Zizzers are coming in on a 7-game winning streak.

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West Plains traditionally plays a run focused brand of football. The 2025 edition will run, but will also throw the ball. They have some athletes that they turn to including senior running back Jackson Taylor who will carry the bulk of the load. He has good hands and can be a passing target out of the backfield. Senior quarterback Ethan Miller is also a pure athlete who makes plays happen. The Zizzer offense can be creative, and is used to scoring, averaging 38-plus points per game.

Hannibal Pirates Junior Quarterback - Wyeth Dorsey

Hannibal will again focus on establishing line dominance. West Plains' main goal is to contain Pirate backs Darrion Washington and Kade Hoskins. Don’t be surprised if they load the box to take away space. This should open up passing lanes for Wyeth Dorsey to find Tre Hoskins and Reid Holliday. This game is a prime slice of what high school football can be. Solid programs, good kids and coaches, and this week, high stakes. Pre-game at 6:30p.m. on 97.9 KICK-FM