Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1157324
NWA Democrat-Gazette File Photo/BEN GOFF • @NWABENGOFF Shiloh Christian linebacker Kaden Henley plays in a game against Choctaw (Okla.) on July 12 during the Southwest Elite 7on7 Showcase at Shiloh Christian's Champions Stadium in Springdale. "We know we're a 3A team, the AAA has already told us," Lincoln coach Don Harrison said. "But we're not focusing on that. We're focused on do- ing our job in 4A. We have a saying around here that we focus on our specifics and not our circumstanc- es." Specifically, Lincoln has five starters back each way from a team that had its best season since 2015. Prairie Grove and Pea Ridge have each played in the state championship game in the past five years and will have a big say in how the conference shapes up. Prairie Grove had an un-Tigerlike season last year at 5-6 but should be in contention again. Pea Ridge, playing its final season in 4A before making the move to 5A, re- turns senior running back Sam Beard, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season. "The 4A-1 is known for being a tough conference we e k i n a n d we e k o ut , a n d t h a t wo n ' t c h a n ge this season," Blackhawks coach Stephen Neal said. "Our hope is that we can continue to do well in the 4A-1 against the top teams. By no means are we thinking about 5A. The 4A-1 is tough enough for us as it is." Class 4A v Continued from Page 39 "The 4A-1 is known for being a tough conference week in and week out, and that won't change this season." — Stephen Neal, Pea Ridge head football coach Harrison Neal We support Bulldog Football 479-637-4182 • Waldron, AR 40 | 8.22.2019 | PREP RALLY: CLASS 4A