Rhett Hargis rushed for 180 yards and scored twice, leading Pea Ridge to a 35-21 victory over Alma on Friday night during the homecoming game at Pea Ridge High School. The win marked an important boost for the Pirates as they advance through the season.
From the opening kickoff, Pea Ridge showed they were ready to put points on the board in front of their home crowd along Lois Street. Hargis, a key offensive weapon for the Pirates, powered through Alma’s defense repeatedly, wearing down their front line with a blend of speed and power runs.
Hargis’ first touchdown came midway through the second quarter, capping off a sustained drive that relied heavily on his ground game. He broke through tackles on multiple occasions, turning what looked like minimal gains into significant yardage. The packed stands at Pea Ridge High echoed with cheers every time he took off, his performance becoming the night’s standout.
Alma managed to respond but struggled to contain Pea Ridge’s rushing attack. The Bulldogs found some success moving the ball via short passes and runs, keeping the scoreboard close throughout the first half. However, Pea Ridge’s balanced offense and tenacious defense limited Alma to just 21 points in the end.
The Pirates extended their lead before halftime when Hargis again punched into the end zone, this time on a goal-line run. His two touchdowns were part of a larger effort by the Pea Ridge offense that controlled the clock and tempo of the game. The offensive line, often overshadowed, deserves credit for the blocks that opened lanes for Hargis and his backfield mates.
On defense, Pea Ridge tightened up in the third quarter, forcing a couple of crucial stops that kept the Bulldogs at bay. The defensive unit, inspired by the home crowd and a strong halftime talk, limited Alma’s opportunities to come back after halftime.
Coach Michael Jacobs praised the effort after the game, noting that “Rhett’s hard work and the offensive line’s discipline really set the tone tonight. The defense stepped up when we needed them the most. It was a full team effort, especially on homecoming, and the players wanted this win badly.”
Playing on their home turf — the familiar stadium on Lois Street — seemed to give the Pirates an edge. The energy of the crowd during pep rallies and between quarters played a part in lifting spirits and maintaining focus through the ups and downs of the game.
This win gives Pea Ridge an important stepping stone as they brace for tougher conference matchups ahead. While Alma put up a valiant fight, the Pirates demonstrated a level of execution and balance that will be necessary to stay competitive as the season progresses.
Pea Ridge now stands with a winning record in the district, riding momentum from Friday’s game. The team looks ahead to their next contest with a boost of confidence, knowing their ground game is a legitimate threat to any defense in the region.
Alma’s coach, Jeff Lane, expressed disappointment but acknowledged Pea Ridge’s strong running game and well-coordinated defense as the difference makers. The Bulldogs will need to tighten up in those areas if they want to turn the season around in upcoming weeks.
Looking back at the homecoming festivities surrounding the game, the Pea Ridge community came out in full support — from the parade down Main Street to the halftime ceremony honoring graduating seniors. It was a night where football mattered, but so did recognizing the many familiar faces who make this small Benton County town what it is.
Fans looking for more prep sports coverage in Northwest Arkansas can find updates and stories on local teams at the NWA Signal prep sports section. Friday’s game added another chapter to the rivalry and tradition between two Benton County schools, reminding everyone why Friday nights in Pea Ridge are something special.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette