SPRINGDALE — Turnovers weren’t a concern for Springdale High during its two-game winning streak to open the season.
But they’ve become an issue as the Bulldogs (2-3, 0-2 7A/6A-West Conference) have lost the past three games.
Quarterback Will Whatley threw three interceptions, and running back Deandre Murray lost a fumble Friday, hurting Springdale’s chances of mounting a comeback in a 27-11 loss to Fayetteville at Jarrell Williams Bulldog Stadium.
“We’ve got guys just trying to make plays out there and pressing a little bit, and the ball comes loose,” said Shane Patrick, Springdale High coach. “They pick off a pass, and it’s just one of those things that happens.”
Springdale didn’t commit a single turnover in its lopsided wins over Batesville and Tulsa Central, but the team has had eight turnovers during its three-game losing streak. The Bulldogs hadn’t had more than three turnovers in a game this season before Friday.
“We were getting a little bit of pressure with the front four on (Whatley) for sure,” said Daryl Patton, Fayetteville coach.
Play of the Night: Fayetteville’s secondary lost track of Springdale wide receiver Garrett Tallman, and the senior took advantage of it by reeling in a 30-yard touchdown pass with 2 minutes, 58 seconds in the first quarter. Whatley found Tallman open in the left corner of the end zone, allowing Springdale to cut Fayetteville’s lead to 7-6. It remained that way for much of the first half.
Injury Update: No major injuries were reported following the game.
Players of the Game: Twin brothers Jay and Clay Patrick applied pressure on Fayetteville quarterback Austin Allen and continued to be defensive forces for Springdale. Clay Patrick sacked Allen on the Purple’Dogs’ first offensive series, and the linebacker recovered the quarterback’s fumble early in the third quarter. Jay Patrick added to his sack total later in the third quarter.
Notable: Murray attempted a pass during a trick play toward the end of the first half, but it was broken up by Fayetteville safety Alex Brignoni. ... Springdale High’s boys soccer team received their rings for winning the Class 7A state championship during halftime.
The Lingo: “I don’t think that we ever went into this thing thinking that we’re going to have to match them score for score because they didn’t score but four times. We made some great plays on defense, and we’re going to continue to get better on offense and do some things there.”
— Shane Patrick
Springdale High coach
Up Next: Springdale travels to Siloam Springs (1-4, 0-2) to face the Panthers for the first time as 7A/6A-West foes.