El Dorado defense riding hot streak into state playoffs

News-Times
News-Times

El Dorado’s defense rides into the 6A state playoffs on a high note after pitching a shutout against Little Rock Hall, whose only points came on a safety in the Wildcats’ 41-2 win on Friday. El Dorado scored two defensive touchdowns in the game and set up another score after recovering a fumble on the Hall 1.

“We forced three turnovers in the four series our starters played and scored twice. Pretty successful night,” said El Dorado defensive coordinator Trey Outlaw. “Starting defense has given up only one drive of 50-plus yards for a touchdown in three games. And if you go back to the Benton game, we have only given up three drives of 50-plus yards for a TD in four games.

“I'm really happy with how our defense has played the last four games, counting Benton. We're forcing turnovers at a really high rate.”

El Dorado’s tackle chart on Friday was modest because of the team’s success, which limited the number of snaps on the field. Starters didn’t play in the second half and two of the four series were one-play drives due to a forced turnover.

Defensive back P.J. Denkins led the Wildcats with seven tackles, including one tackle for loss. Will Artis had an interception. Jyrin Steward had six tackles at linebacker with Carmerious Rucks recording five.

Jacoby Hankton had five tackles and recovered a fumble. Quentin Frazier had four tackles and recovered a fumble. Martavious Green had two tackles for losses and forced a fumble. Joshua Hill had a sack and forced a fumble. Jonathan Goodman had a sack.

Jacove Lewis and Hankton both recorded defensive touchdowns. Lewis’ touchdown was set up by a big hit and fumble caused by Green.

El Dorado (4-6) takes its three-game win streak to Jonesboro on Friday for the first round of the playoffs.

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