The Little Rock Lutheran Lions won only one game in 2008, but it was a game to remember. Lutheran beat Quitman, 22-20, on homecoming during Week 7.

“It was a big step,” second-year coach Josh Oberg said. “It showed that we had signs of progress. We weren’t going to go through a season where we lose everything. It’s one of those games in which any of us involved will never forget.”

Oberg made the switch to Alex Becker (6-0, 140) at quarterback after Week 3 last season, and the Lions will look to the sophomore to lead the way in 2009 in the 5-2A.

“He’s so good at being steady,” Oberg said. “He’s smart and consistent with how he calls plays in the No-Huddle offense. We know what to expect out of him, and he’s a positive leader for us.”

Junior Greg Smith (5-10, 160) anchors the defense at middle linebacker.

“We are running an aggressive 3-5 defense this year,” Oberg said. “We want a defense that matches the intensity of our offense. We’re going to do a lot of blitzing and take a lot of chances to create turnovers. It also opens us up to big plays, but we have to take chances.”

2009 Schedule

Sept. 4 – Arkansas Baptist

Sept. 11 – Conway Christian

Sept. 18 – Hector

Sept. 25 – Ola

Oct. 2 – Cutter Morning Star (Away)

Oct. 9 – Danville

Oct. 16 – Quitman (Away)

Oct. 23 – Mountain Pine (Away)

Oct. 30 – Bigelow (Away)

Nov. 6 – Hartford