The Bearden Bears (4-5; 3-2 in 2A-4 conference play) are set to conclude their best season in many years this Friday night on the road then they take on the Hazen Hornets (7-1; 4-0). The Bears have secured their spot in the 2A State Playoffs, but they will need to finish out the regular season.
The Bears already faced the most efficient defense in the state earlier in the season when they took on Mineral Spring, who beat them 49-8. This Friday night, the Bears are set to face the most productive offense in the state.
Hazen averages 49.3 points per game in eight games. This season, the Hornets have scored more than 45 points in six of their eight games.
The Bears' defense has improved significantly through the last few years in how they attack the line of scrimmage. It is the young stars like freshman Matthew Chambers who have given the Bears new life in their defense.
The Bears have allowed 28 points per game throughout the whole season. In the last four games, three of which they won, the Bears have allowed an average of 19.5 points per game.
The offense for the Bears has been more productive in not only running the ball, but throwing as well. Chambers has become a more explosive runner, while junior Bryce Whisenhunt has been efficient in spreading the ball around the field.
Bearden is averaging 17.7 points per game, but has averaged 28.8 points per game in the last four games. The Bears will face a Hornets' defense that allowed an average of 13.5 points per game this season. Bearden will have to win at the line of scrimmage early and often to gain an edge.
Bearden will go on the road to take on Hazen this Friday at 7 p.m.