The Arkadelphia (AR) varsity football team faces Dardanelle (AR) in a highly anticipated neutral playoff game today at 7 p.m. This matchup is part of the prestigious “2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas)” within the 4A Football State Bracket. Fans eagerly await this thrilling postseason showdown.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Arkansas State High School Football Playoff
Who: Dardanelle vs Arkadelphia
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas) – 2024 4A Football State Bracket
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Dardanelle vs. Arkadelphia

Tonight at 7 p.m., two of Arkansas’ top high school football teams, Dardanelle and Arkadelphia, will clash in a neutral playoff game as part of the “2024 AAA Centennial Bank State Football Playoffs (Arkansas) – 2024 4A Football State Bracket.” Both teams boast impressive seasons and are evenly matched, making this game a must-watch for fans of Arkansas high school football.

Team Comparisons

Dardanelle (10-1) enters the game with a stellar .909 overall win percentage and an undefeated 7-0 conference record. The Sand Lizards have excelled at home and away, with a balanced attack that has outscored opponents 494 to 195 this season.

On the other side, Arkadelphia (10-2) has been just as dominant, with an .833 win percentage and an identical undefeated conference record of 7-0. The Badgers have displayed explosive scoring, racking up 565 points while holding opponents to 194. Their success in neutral-site games (2-0) could give them a slight edge in tonight’s setting.

Scoring Breakdown

Both teams have unique scoring patterns. Dardanelle averages 44.9 points per game, relying heavily on early dominance, particularly in the first two quarters, where they average 12.4 and 15.2 points, respectively. Arkadelphia, on the other hand, leads the scoring battle with an average of 47.1 points per game. They are most dangerous in the first quarter, where they average 20.1 points, setting a fast-paced tone.

Keys to Victory

• Dardanelle: The Sand Lizards need to capitalize on their strong start in the first half and maintain defensive pressure in the second half, particularly against Arkadelphia’s early-game explosiveness.
• Arkadelphia: The Badgers must utilize their offensive firepower and aim for a fast start to put pressure on Dardanelle. Consistency through all four quarters will be crucial to their success.

A Game for the Ages

With both teams evenly matched in talent, undefeated in conference play, and known for their scoring prowess, this game promises to be a thrilling battle. Fans can expect a showcase of top-tier football as these two powerhouses fight for a spot in the next round of the state playoffs.

Who will prevail in this high-stakes showdown? Tune in tonight to witness what promises to be an unforgettable clash!

The 2024-2025 high school football season has showcased impressive campaigns from both Dardanelle and Arkadelphia. With each team achieving remarkable success, their performances against common opponents and their overall records highlight their strengths. Here’s a breakdown of how these teams compare as they head deeper into the playoffs.

Common Opponents: Shared Dominance

Both Dardanelle and Arkadelphia faced Nashville and Ozark during the regular season, and each emerged victorious in dominant fashion:

• Dardanelle’s Results:
  • 9/13/24: Dardanelle defeated Nashville 44-37 in a high-scoring thriller.
  • 10/25/24: Dardanelle shut out Ozark 42-0, demonstrating defensive prowess.
• Arkadelphia’s Results:
  • 9/27/24: Arkadelphia routed Nashville 42-12, showcasing their offensive efficiency.
  • 11/15/24: Arkadelphia overwhelmed Ozark 57-12, delivering a commanding all-around performance.

While both teams handled their common opponents effectively, Arkadelphia’s larger margins of victory against Nashville and Ozark suggest a slight edge in overall dominance.

Record Breakdown: Comparing Success

• Dardanelle (10-1):
  • League: 7-0 (Undefeated)
  • Non-League: 2-1
  • Home: 5-0 (Perfect record)
  • Away: 4-1
  • Neutral: 1-0
  • Playoffs: 1-0
  • In-State: 10-1

  Dardanelle’s lone loss came in non-league play, but their perfect league and home records underline their consistency and resilience.

• Arkadelphia (10-2):
  • League: 7-0 (Undefeated)
  • Non-League: 1-2
  • Home: 4-1
  • Away: 4-1
  • Neutral: 2-0
  • Playoffs: 2-0
  • In-State: 10-2

  Arkadelphia’s two losses came outside their league, but their undefeated league record and strong playoff showings highlight their ability to perform under pressure.

Strengths and Key Observations

• Dardanelle:
  Dardanelle has been exceptional defensively, as seen in their 42-0 shutout of Ozark. Their ability to maintain an unbeaten record in league play and at home demonstrates their dominance on familiar turf and against familiar foes.
• Arkadelphia:
  Arkadelphia’s offensive firepower has been evident throughout the season, with a 57-12 rout of Ozark being a prime example. Despite two losses, they have consistently bounced back, and their two playoff wins further underscore their postseason potential.

What Sets Them Apart?

The key differences lie in their performances against non-league opponents and their margins of victory. While Dardanelle has been slightly more consistent overall, Arkadelphia’s larger scoring differentials in common matchups could indicate a higher ceiling for explosive play.

Conclusion

Both teams have enjoyed successful 2024-2025 campaigns, with unbeaten league records and strong showings against common opponents. Dardanelle’s consistency and defensive strength provide a solid foundation, while Arkadelphia’s explosive offense makes them a formidable force. Should these two teams meet in the postseason, it would undoubtedly be a thrilling contest between two of the state’s top programs.