PITTSBURG, Texas — Arkansas high school football playoffs delivered excitement on Thursday as three teams secured victories and moved on to the area round.
Atlanta Rabbits claim bi‑district title
For the first time since 2018 and under first‑year head coach Tyler Morton, the Atlanta Rabbits (9‑2) captured a bi‑district title in the Class 3A Division I postseason. After a dominant first half that left them up 14‑0, the Rabbits exploded for 21 points in the third quarter, ultimately defeating Mount Vernon 35‑6.
Key plays highlighted the team’s two‑way talent. Division I prospect Drae Simmons intercepted a Mount Vernon pass and later scored on offense. Running back Derell Sewell added two rushing touchdowns, while quarterback Brayden Thompson connected with Simmons for a 67‑yard strike before halftime. In the second half, Thompson found Noah Sheffield for another touchdown, and fellow Division I prospect CJ Whaley sealed the win with a pick‑six.
Atlanta’s next challenge will be a Friday showdown against Whitesboro in Sulphur Springs.
Mineral Springs Hornets rally past Hector
In Mineral Springs, Ark., the Hornets (6‑5) overcame a 16‑0 third‑quarter deficit to beat Hector 20‑16 and earn a spot in the second round of the Class 2A playoffs. After a slow start, the Hornets sparked their offense with two long passing touchdowns—a 59‑yard strike followed by an 81‑yard bomb.
Junior quarterback Jamerian Staten caught the 59‑yard score and later threw the 81‑yard touchdown. The defense tightened after Hector’s third‑quarter score, limiting the opposition and allowing the Hornets to finish the rally with a 12‑yard rushing touchdown.
Mineral Springs now prepares to face Baptist Prep in the next round.
Dierks Outlaws break playoff drought
In Malvern, Ark., the Dierks Outlaws (8‑3) snapped a multi‑season playoff winless streak with a 38‑14 victory over Magnet Cove in the Class 2A first round. Despite missing the chance to host the game, the Outlaws dominated on both sides of the ball, securing their first playoff win in several years.
The win sets up a second‑round matchup against Marked Tree.
These results underscore the competitive spirit of Arkansas high school football, where coaches, players and communities rally behind their teams as the postseason progresses.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
