COMPETITIVE GAME EXPECTED AGAINST PEA RIDGE

The Pea Ridge Blackhawks have had several successful seasons in a row. They are hoping to start the 2018 season like they have the last three years — with a win. However, standing in the way of the Blackhawks is a Harrison Goblin team that is trending up. After a trip to the Elite Eight last year, Harrison will be ready to defend F.S. Garrison Stadium. The contest will mark the beginning of the second decade in the stadium. Harrison has a 26-24 record in the stadium and is 6-4 in the opening game at the stadium. The Goblins have won the last two openers. Joel Wells is 2-1 as head coach of Harrison in first games. Entering the contest, Wells is concerned about his opponent. “They will be very good,” he said. “They return nine starters on defense that won 12 games. They are very well coached.” With almost a complete defense back, the Blackhawks may test Harrison’s new offense that will have a new quarterback for the first time in three years. “We need to make plays in the passing game,” said Wells. “Ben (Johnson) will need to play within himself and let the game come to him.” Harrison does have a solid running attack back from last season that will provide an interesting night for the Blackhawks. “It should be a great test for both teams,” stated the coach. “We feel our rushing attack is solid and we need to execute on Friday.” Harrison had made great strides in defense over the last three seasons. On Friday, the Goblins will be up against a team with very little experience on offense. “They are younger on offense,” stated the coach. “I like their quarterback. He is a dual threat guy that looks like a real competitor. The jury is still out on their running backs.” Wells has a game plan for stopping the Blackhawks. “We must stop the running game,” he said. “We need to make them one dimensional.” Looking at the overall game picture, Wells pointed to the things that would be key in winning the game. “Turnovers and special teams will be critical for both teams,” he said. “I think we just need to play good smart football.” There seems to be a little extra motivation for the Goblins entering the game. A state publication has predicted that Pea Ridge would defeat the Goblins. “Well, since we are a three point dog according to Hootens,” started Wells about the prediction. “We will look to pull off the upset on Friday.” Harrison will be at home next week facing Mountain Home and then hit the road on Sept. 7 as they travel to Siloam Springs. Team members this season include: Colton Shaver; Michael Scott; Julius Scott; Evan Bailey; Thailer Lovell; Rilee Jones; Breckin Duck; Devin Mitchell; Kaden Jones; Noah Moix; Ben Johnson; Lane Johnson; Caleb Bartlett; Cole Keylon; Trey Richardson; Seabastian Diffey; Champ Saylors; Jacob Kendall; Landen Stephens; Gabe Paul; Carson Flippo; Gabe Huskey; Colin Ballard; Nathan Griggs; Eric Arnold; Garrett Underdown; Keaton Brown; Tyler Hutcheson; Maxwell Payne; Brooks Both; Anthony Allen; Hunter Holtby; Jordan Welsh; Trenton Smith; Bryant Ulrich; Jordan Foushee; Jacob Dean; Logan King; Cody Jones; Spencer Smith; Austin Hutton; Dylan Olson; Steven Chrisman; Dakota Adamson; Trey Stith; Tim Gass; Jakob Jones; Christian Combs; Zach Schaffer; Levi Schneider; Jonathon Santana; Hayden Vanderpool; Megan Oak; Gabe Roland; Justin Roland; Ty Phillips; Hunter Nadeau; Josh Gibbs; Kendred Thompson; Alex Quatman; Brandon Ricketts; Konner Mears; Zane Yacks; Dalton Moser; Zach Hampton; Logan Villines; and Harris Groberg. The manager is Gavin Kilbane.

COMPETITIVE GAME EXPECTED AGAINST PEA RIDGE

JEFF BRASEL

Harrison Daily | 8/23/2018

PHOTO CREDIT: Harrison Daily