 1. Arkadelphia's ground attack is near
unstoppable.
Arkadelphia's running game this season has been immense. Seniors
Kyron Harrison and Cannon Turner form a fearful backfield duo, and the pair
have plenty of space to run in because of a veteran offensive line. The Badgers
have averaged 361 rushing yards per game this season, and that number is not
likely to decrease as the conference season ticks on. Turner has rushed for 321
yards and two touchdowns this season, while Harrison has 453 yards and 10
touchdowns, which is the most of any player in the state.
2. Arkadelphia is a second-half team.
The Badgers have averaged a 23-point margin-of-victory this
season, but all three of their games have been relatively close at the half. The
Badgers led Sylvan Hills 26-10 at halftime before winning the game 57-22. They trailed
Benton 14-13 at halftime before winning 33-20, and trailed Wynne 20-14 before
winning 51-31. Arkadelphia has exploded in the second half of all three games,
a testament to the team's stamina, mental toughness and a solid coaching staff
which can make mid-game adjustments.
3. This year's Arkadelphia team has no glaring
weak spots.
Arkadelphia is strong across the field. The Badger offense
is loaded at every position, and the defense has also played rather well.
Coming into the season, it was thought the Arkadelphia secondary could be a
weak point having lost three starters from last season, but that area has been
strong as well! Senior Patrick McLane and juniors Kelin Nelson and Trey Bledsoe
have all played admirably and held opposing teams from beating the Badgers in
the air. As the season goes on, Cannon Turner and Buster Thomas can fill in at
cornerback to add more depth to the secondary. The Arkadelphia team has been
well-rounded, and teams will have to come at Arkadelphia with a well-rounded
game if they want any chance of pulling out a victory.