17 Aug 2014 Benton Harmony Grove: Cardinals flying high after '13 success

Conference: 5-3A
Coach: Jimmy “Red” Parker
’13 Record: 5-6 (3-4)

The Benton Harmony Grove Cardinals posted their best record in school history in 2013, finishing 5-6 and earning a berth to the playoffs.

The Cardinals fell in the first round to eventual 3A champion Charleston. The experience gained from 2013 is invaluable for the Cardinals as they head into this fall.

The Cardinals will have a new face at quarterback — seniors Zach Caplinger and Colby Byrd and junior Dakota Rains all tried out for the position in the spring.

Senior Harry McClendon and junior Jon Johnson provide experience in the backfield at running back. Senior J. Alan Ramsey gives the Cardinals a receiving threat at tight end, and juniors Maverick Conklin, Alec Shilling and Brinson Cornwell lead the receiving corps.

The Cardinals’ main offensive strength may very well be on the offensive line, which returns several seniors: Lane Deneen, Neal Moore, Cody Roush and Brandon Williams.

Ramsey and McClendon lead the way on the defensive line. McClendon earned all-conference honors last fall at defensive tackle.

Williams leads the linebacker corps. Byrd, Cornwell and Caplinger return in the secondary.

5 Players to Watch:
Zach Caplinger (Sr. QB/DB)
Harry McClendon (Sr. RB/DL)
J. Alan Ramsey (Sr. TE/DL)
Brandon Williams (Sr. OL/LB)
Colby Byrd (Sr. QB/DB)

0

1 Must-see Game:
“There should be a lot on the line when Episcopal comes to town on Halloween.” — 501 staff

2014 Schedule:
Sept. 5        Poyen
Sept. 12    at Conway Christian
Sept. 19    Magnet Cove
Sept. 26    Glen Rose
Oct. 3        at Bismarck
Oct. 10        at Jessieville
Oct. 17        Centerpoint
Oct. 24        at Prescott
Oct. 31        Episcopal
Nov. 6        at Horatio