Farmington continued its strong football campaign Tuesday night with a 24-14 victory over Van Buren at Blakemore Field. The win improves Farmington’s record following a 9-win season last year and secures the program’s sixth straight playoff berth.
Farmington’s offense found success early, led by junior running back Troy Bradley, who consistently gained yardage against a tough Van Buren defense. Bradley rushed for 112 yards on 18 carries and scored two touchdowns. His ability to exploit gaps in the Pointer defense was a critical factor in Farmington controlling the pace of the game.
The game opened with both teams trading drives, but it was Farmington’s ground attack that established dominance in the first half. Early in the second quarter, Bradley broke free on a 28-yard run to the Van Buren 12-yard line, setting up a short touchdown run by quarterback Ethan Collins. Collins finished the night 12-for-19 passing for 165 yards, adding a touchdown and no interceptions.
Farmington’s defense also played a pivotal role in the outcome. The squad forced two turnovers, including a key interception by senior linebacker Marcus Jenkins in the third quarter. Jenkins’s pick stopped a Van Buren drive that threatened to tie the game late in the third, providing Farmington with momentum heading into the final quarter.
Van Buren fought to stay within striking distance, scoring two touchdowns through a balanced attack. Their quarterback, Jackson Reed, completed 15 of 25 passes for 182 yards and a touchdown, while running back Isaiah Coleman contributed 85 yards on 16 carries. But Van Buren’s defense struggled to contain Farmington’s varied offense and missed opportunities in the red zone limited their scoring.
Farmington extended its lead with a late fourth-quarter touchdown run by running back Caleb Sims, which cemented the final margin. Sims finished with 54 rushing yards and the game-sealing score with 6 minutes left. The Farmington offense sustained several long drives in the final quarter, effectively running out the clock and limiting Van Buren’s possessions.
Farmington coach Derek Miles praised his team’s discipline and execution after the game. “We wanted to come out focused and build off the momentum from last season,” Miles said. “Our players did a great job sticking to the game plan and competing hard through four quarters.”
This win over a regional rival comes at an important time for Farmington as they continue to build towards postseason success. The Panthers will play a non-conference game next week before entering a crucial stretch of conference play that will determine playoff seeding.
Van Buren coach Travis Hammond acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic about his team’s growth this season. “We’re competitive and we have a chance to make some noise, but we have to clean up the mistakes that cost us tonight,” Hammond said. “Our guys will learn from this and come back stronger.”
Tuesday’s game marked Farmington’s third consecutive win to start the season. In recent years, the Panthers have maintained a consistent presence in the postseason, reflecting a program focused on sustained performance rather than occasional success. The team’s ability to capitalize on turnovers and control possession were decisive factors in keeping Van Buren’s offense off balance.
Farmington’s victory also came in front of a lively Blakemore Field crowd, emphasizing the significance of this rivalry within Benton County football culture. Both teams showed resilience and competitiveness, with Farmington’s edge in execution earning them the win.
The Panthers now prepare for a road matchup against high-ranking conference opponents in the coming weeks. Maintaining defensive pressure and diversifying offensive schemes will be critical if Farmington hopes to replicate or improve upon last season’s 9-win total.
Farmington’s triumph over Van Buren highlights the continued importance of preparation, physicality, and situational awareness in Northwest Arkansas high school football—a regional staple with long-standing community support and involvement.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
