August 30, 2012

7A #1 Fayetteville vs. Memphis University High School

Fayetteville Key Players

QB Austin Allen, RB Brice Gahagans, WR/CB Jordan Dennis, C Austin Hubble, DE Taryll Henry, LB Brooks Ellis, S Alex Brignoni

MUS Key Players

QB Jordan Rogers, RB Shane Tucker, WR Marquez Langton, WR Witt Hawkins, OL Arbe Jones LB Pete Abston, LB Ford Howell

Key Factors

The biggest area of concern for Fayetteville heading into the season is their secondary play, where outside of Alex Brignoni a number of question marks lay. MUS has a prolific passing attack, led by Arkansas State commit Marquez Langton and gained almost 400 yards through the air in their first game of the season against Ensworth, ranked 28th in the nation by Rivals High. Langton and quarterback Jordan Brown could exploit the Bulldogs young defensive backs early and often.

Fayetteville will counter with their own explosive offense, however, and having one of the top quarterbacks in the nation in Austin Allen always helps. Jordan Dennis, who caught 8 passes for 194 yards and 2 touchdowns in last week's scrimmage against Pulaski Academy, gives the Bulldogs a threat to score on any play while running back Brice Gahagans could have a big game, as MUS allowed Ensworth to rush for 250 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Prediction

Fayetteville by 1


5A #3 Watson Chapel vs. Siloam Springs

Watson Chapel Key Players

FB James Collier, RB Marquis Handley, WR/S James Stargell, DT Jacquez Beard, LB Anthony Jermon, LB Josh Harris, DB Josh Balentine

Siloam Springs Key Players

QB/S Austin Van Pouke, RB Scout Alexander, T Austin Farmer, DT Luis Gutierrez, LB Jose Reyes, CB Oscar Alaniz

Key Factors

The strength of Siloam's defense lies in its front four but they'll be tested all night long against Watson Chapel's wishbone attack. The Wildcats have multiple running backs with the speed to take it to the house and the Panthers must contain them in order to keep the game close.

Van Pouke may technically be starting for the first time in his career but has seen extensive playing time over the past two seasons due to injuries. He threw for over 400 yards and added 5 touchdowns while filling in during a game two seasons ago and can keep the Panthers in the game with his arm if he gets on a roll.

Prediction

Watson Chapel by 24

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