Conference positioning and district seeding hang in the balance Friday night as Southwest Missouri high school football hits the midway point of the regular season, headlined by Joplin's trip to Carthage and a college-stadium homecoming showcase.

Kickoff for all matchups is set for 7:00 PM.

Joplin (2-2) at Carthage (3-1)

Joplin travels to David Haffner Stadium looking to bounce back against a Carthage squad that has reeled off three consecutive wins.

The Eagles bring a ground-heavy attack to the table, led by quarterback Trenton McCadney, who averages 136.3 rushing yards per contest. Carthage counters with an offense finding its stride, having racked up 46 points against Glendale and 44 against Kickapoo over its last two outings. History between the two programs favors the hosts: Carthage holds a 6-2 advantage over Joplin across their last eight meetings. Ball security and interior defensive push will determine whether Joplin can stall the Tigers' momentum in front of a packed Jasper County crowd.

Webb City at Willard

Webb City hits the road to face Willard in Central Ozark Conference action.

The Cardinals' signature veer option offense faces a Willard defense tasked with remaining disciplined along the line of scrimmage. For Willard, sustaining long drives and limiting three-and-outs is essential to keep Webb City’s ground game on the sideline and prevent the game from slipping away early.

Neosho at Republic

Neosho makes the trip east up I-44 to take on Republic in another pivotal COC test.

Republic relies on power running and methodical clock control, an approach that has frustrated visiting squads all season. Neosho’s defensive front must stay assignment-sound against Republic’s misdirection, while its own offense will need quick strikes to avoid playing from behind in a hostile road environment.

Seneca at Nevada

Seneca heads north on Highway 71 to square off against Nevada in a battle of run-first, physical philosophies.

Both sidelines pride themselves on dominating the line of scrimmage and wearing opponents down over four quarters. With two punishing rushing attacks colliding, third-down conversions and red-zone finishing will decide this matchup.

New Heights Christian Academy vs. Osceola

At Fred G. Hughes Stadium, Missouri Southern State University

New Heights Christian Academy moves into the collegiate spotlight Friday, hosting Osceola on the turf at MSSU for its 2026 homecoming game.

The larger venue provides extra juice for the Cougars, but Osceola brings a fast-paced offensive scheme capable of creating big plays in space. For New Heights, controlling field position and settling down early under the college stadium lights will be the blueprint for a homecoming victory.

Branson at Carl Junction

Carl Junction hosts Branson looking to defend its home turf against an explosive Pirates squad.

Branson's offense features balanced playmakers on the perimeter, challenging the Bulldogs' secondary from the opening whistle. Carl Junction will need a consistent rushing attack to dictate the tempo and keep Branson's high-octane offense off the field.

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