FIVE GAMES TO WATCH

Searcy at Cabot (Aug. 28)

This will be Kenny Simpson’s first game with Searcy after arriving from Southside Batesville. Simpson replaced Mark Kelley in June, months after Kelley led the Lions to a Class 6A state championship. Searcy and Cabot are in the first year of a twoyear contract. With its regional proximity, this matchup could be a fixture for years to come.

LR Parkview at Greenwood (Sept. 25)

What a way for Little Rock Parkview to begin 6A-West Conference play. A trip to Greenwood is always tough for opposing teams. If the Patriots want to be considered a state title contender, a win here puts them in that conversation.

Jonesboro at West Memphis (Oct. 16)

When it comes to who will be among the top teams of the 6A-East Conference, Jonesboro and West Memphis are typically near the top. The Hurricane make the trip to West Memphis, which is led by former Osceola head coach Robert Hooks. The winner of this game can put itself in a nice position in the league with three games remaining.

LR Parkview at Van Buren (Oct. 23)

Van Buren is talented offensively with senior quarterback Gary Phillips. The Pointers would like to make a good impression in their return to Class 6A, and a win against Parkview would help matters. This game is the first of a three-game stretch for the Pointers where they’ll have Parkview, Greenwood and Benton.

Benton at Greenwood (Oct. 23)

Benton won a wild one against Greenwood last season on its way to winning the 6A-West Conference championship. Having the top seed in the league was beneficial, as the Panthers defeated West Memphis in the semifinals to reach the state title game. Expect this game to have high stakes once again, with a No. 1 seed possibly on the line.