Benton looks to continue their three game win streak as they face off against Sylvan Hills tonight. They are 3-1 and 1-0 in conference. The offense, led by Drew Davis, has been clicking lately, scoring 24 (game suspended at half), 28, and 55 in their last three games respectively, plus the team has been great defensively. The defense has been shutting teams out in at least one quarter weekly. Benton plans to be prepared against Sylvan Hills and expects a homecoming win.
Panther Head Coach Brad Harris feels his team is battle-tested and prepared for conference play. He’s very happy with how his team has performed as of late, with guys being out of rotation due to injuries.
“I really like where we’re at. We’re sitting at 3-1 on the year. I feel like we beat a good NLR, Parkview, and now Jonesboro team. Three teams that are big and athletic. Our guys have played well. Especially since we haven’t been at full speed yet with all of our players. We’ve had some guys step up and play well in their absence. We’ll be glad to have them back, but we’re also very pleased to have three wins on the year as well,” said Harris.
In today’s game, Benton will still be handicapped at the receiver’s position. Harris is hopeful to get the full roster back soon.“I’m hoping to get them back soon. We hope that maybe next week, against Sheridan, we can get Will Carter and Bryson Griffis back. I think we’ll get defensive lineman Carson Conyers back for Sheridan, also. It’ll be a big positive for us,” said Harris.
Harris and the team isn’t taking Sylavn Hills for granted due to their record last season. “Sylvan Hills is a much-improved team. They broke their 20-game losing streak to start this year 3-0. Marion beat them 46-43. They’re playing with a lot of confidence right now. We’re going to have to play well. They’re not a team that’s going to be a pushover. We’ve had a good week of practice, and we know what to expect. I think our guys will be locked in and ready to go for a homecoming win.”
As homecoming approaches, Harris wants his team to have some fun, but also be aware and focused ahead of game time.
“I’m honestly the kind of guy who wants them to enjoy the hometown activities. Our guys participate in the gameday pep rallies. They escort the girls so there’s not much distraction. I want them to be high school kids and enjoy it all and embrace it. I want them to also understand that the most important thing is the high school football game. That’s why we have homecoming, it’s because of the football game. I think our guys get the message and understand,” said Harris.
Benton kicks off at home against Sylvan Hills at 7:00 p.m. tonight.