Shake-ups keep it interesting
New coach, system could take some getting used to
Many changes are afoot for the Arkadelphia Badgers this season.
After finishing 2-8 in 2007, Arkadelphia sought out a coach who knew winning and how to turn a program around. The result? Billy Elmore, fresh off a state-championship performance at Glen Rose.
Another change for the Badgers this season is their classification. No longer will they compete in the 5A against Hot Springs and Hope, but now they will have to contend with perennial 4A power Nashville.
Making matters worse for the Badgers and Elmore are the questions that surround many positions on the team, mainly at quarterback.
Last year’s returning starter, Jarvis Purifoy, is recovering from a broken ankle suffered during spring practice, and his backups have seen little-to-no playing time at the varsity level.
“He’s got all the tools you need,” Elmore said of Purifoy. “It’s just a matter of getting healthy.”
At running back, the Badgers benefit from having a couple of returning players who saw action a year ago. Rodney Bragg and Warren Hunter split time a year ago, and it looks as if they will do the same this year.
“One may play receiver when he’s not playing running back,” Elmore said. “They are a couple of our better athletes.”
The wide receiver position is not solid, but it is not hopeless. Arkadelphia returns senior Cody Pritchard, who’s route running and good hands make him a valuable asset on this team.
Others will be expected to contribute but may have to play both ways. Elmore hopes to have several options at wide receiver by the time the season starts.
The biggest concern Elmore has had since he took the Arkadelphia job has been the offensive and defensive lines.
“We’ve got a lot of question marks there,” Elmore said. “We’ve got some kids if they would just show up.”
The lack of physicality and blocking schemes has Elmore considering switching to a smaller, faster line over the larger offensive line now in place.
The defense that allowed nearly 30 points per game a year ago could be improved by experience at linebacker. Russell Denton proved himself to be an asset at the inside position during spring and summer drills. Others that look to contribute at linebacker include Cole Clark, Colin Williams and Ashdone Bailey.
The Badger secondary also returns a few starters, giving Elmore some hope at being able to slow down opposing offenses.
“I think they’re adjusting,” Elmore said. “I really don’t know what demands were placed on them before. I think they’re just adjusting to me and what they can and cannot do, and that part is a process.”
Elmore plans to use the same balanced offensive scheme he employed at Glen Rose, but admits he will go with what works.
Success this season hinges on whether or not Elmore can instill a winning attitude in Arkadelphia.
“Good attitudes are just as contagious as bad ones,” Elmore said.
This article was published Sunday, August 24, 2008.