11 Aug 2013 CABOT: Panthers attacking behind strong defense
Conference: 7A/6A East
Coach: Mike Malham
’12 Record: 7-5 (4-3)
The Panthers rebounded in 2012, erasing the sting of a three-win season in 2011. Cabot won the games it needed to win, including back-to-back double-digit wins at home to close out the year and give the Panthers a third-place conference finish.
A young Cabot squad then went on to shock Bryant on the road in the first round of the playoffs, 28-21. The Panthers fell the next week in the quarterfinals to North Little Rock, 28-0.
Senior Kason Kimbrell returns at quarterback after missing part of last season due to injury. Chris Henry is experienced at halfback. Classmate Zach Launius joins Henry in the backfield at full- back. Senior Keith Pledger provides power and sure hands at tight end.
Seniors Heath Pledger and Martin Turner are three-year starters on the right side of the offensive line at guard and tackle, respectively. Senior Brandon Arthur anchors the interior of the defensive line at tackle.
All-state senior and 501 Football Team honoree Jake Vaughan is the heart of the defense at linebacker. The defensive signal caller led the team with 126 tackles in 2012.
“Jake has great work habits,” Malham said. “He leads by example. He has really worked hard in the weight room this offseason getting ready for his senior year.”
Junior all-state safety Jake Ferguson and senior cornerback Jordan Burke highlight a talented secondary.
Schedule
Sept. 3 Jacksonville
Sept. 13 at LR Catholic
Sept. 20 Conway
Sept. 27 at North LR
Oct. 4 Marion
Oct. 11 at Mountain Home
Oct. 18 LR Central
Oct. 25 West Memphis
Nov. 1 at Jonesboro
Nov. 7 at Searcy
501 Football Team 2013 –
Jake Vaughan
Nominated by Coach Mike Malham
Classification: Senior
Position: LB
On the field: Jake is a leader on the field. He called the defensive signals and led the team in tackles at 126.
Off the field: Jake is also a leader in the classroom and sets a good example for his teammates. He carries a 3.44 GPA.
Community work: Jake sets a good example for the younger kids in the community. Jake belongs to a Mt. Carmel Baptist Church youth group that does several community service activities.
Classroom: Jake is very courteous to his classmates and teachers.
Expectations: I expect Jake to have a great senior year and lead the team in tackles again this year.
