Bucks seeking third straight win

SMACKOVER - What a difference two weeks can make.

After opening the season with a thud in a home loss to Harmony Grove, Smackover has roared back with convincing wins over defending 3A state champion Harding Academy and 4A foe Fountain Lake.

Tonight, the Bucks will look to extend their winning streak to three straight when they travel to Fouke for their 6-3A opener.

Game time is set for 7 p.m. from Fouke.

The Panthers (2-0) are on a roll heading into their conference opener, having scored 86 points in wins over Mineral Springs and Dierks.

“Fouke always plays us tough,” said Smackover coach Brian Strickland. “Playing at Fouke, it’s extremely tough to win on a Friday night. They’ve got a good, senior-laden class, and they’re playing good football right now.”

The Panthers have outstanding playmakers in juniors Charley Baker and Jarret Easley with senior quarterback Landon Gonzales guiding the offense.

“They’ll line them up at running back, wingback or receiver. They try to get the ball in their hands,” Strickland said. “Their quarterback is a three-year starter and he understands what coach (Rick) Barker is wanting to do.

“He’s got a powerful arm. He can launch it 50-plus yards. He also punts and kicks for them. He does it