Bulldogs well aware of Patriots
Greenwood Coach Chris Young has seen a lot of talented teams throughout his time with the Bulldogs’ program — a run that started when he was hired in 2000.
However, he firmly believes the group he’ll encounter on the opposing sideline tonight at War Memorial Stadium may be the most gifted one he’s seen.
“That Little Rock Parkview team is a very, very talented football team,” said Young. “I don’t know if I’ve seen a more talented team at the high school level than those guys. They’ve got athletes all over the place, a lot of them with Division I offers. They do a great job of coaching those guys, and it’s going to be a huge challenge for us.”
Young, who spent 16 years working alongside Rick Jones before being promoted to head coach in 2020, compared this year’s Parkview team to the 2007 Camden Fairview team that boasted several college recruits as well. Greenwood managed to beat that Cardinals team in the playoffs, and Young is hoping his Bulldogs can saddle Parkview (3-0) with a similar loss.
Greenwood (2-1) had a week off after having their 16game winning streak snapped by Fort Smith Northside on Sept. 10. Young revealed that the Bulldogs used that time to get players rested, which he thinks should benefit them as the year progresses. He also noted that they were able to get some extra practice time in to prepare for a team that he’s certain will be tough to beat.
The Patriots have allowed just a total of 10 points in three games and are coming off a game against Pine Bluff where they yielded 111 yards of offense in a 47-0 thrashing. Quarterback Jaylon White, who has committed to Mississippi, and tailback James Jointer, a University of Arkansas pledge, are two of the key cogs to a Parkview offense that’s averaging more than 35 points.
“[White] is as good at the high school level as I’ve seen running the football,” Young said. “He can extend plays with his feet, and then he finds guys with his arm. He’s a special athlete. You can line up right and do what you’re suppose to do, and still not make the play with him.
“He rushed for over 200 yards against White Hall, which has a really good football team. But you know, our kids are excited. They like challenges, and they’re certainly about to get one.”