Eagles Shutout Waldron in Season Opener

Andrew Wells-Arkansas Tech student and Paris Alumni

The Paris Eagles cruised to a dominant 27-0 victory over the 4A Waldron Bulldogs at home last Friday night. Running back Dimitri Capo capped off an early drive with a 5-yard rushing touchdown to put the Eagles on the board. Later in the first quarter, quarterback Josh Honea lofted up a pass to receiver Brock Barnhill, who made an impressive grab in the endzone for another score. Paris struck again early in the second half, this time on a 58-yard pass from Honea to Ty Farmer. The final score of the night came on the ground from backup quarterback Athan Wells, sealing the shutout win for the Eagles. 

The Eagle’s offense showed a balanced attack, putting up 180 rushing yards and 208 through the air. Honea led the way with 218 total yards, throwing for two touchdowns and one interception. Farmer paced the receiving corps with 96 yards on 5 catches. Right behind him was Honea’s go-to target, Jayden Carter, who hauled in seven receptions for 73 yards. On the ground, Wells and running back Landon Robberson both led the team with 52 rushing yards. Both Capo and Wells accounted for the Eagles’ two rushing touchdowns. 

This victory was largely driven by Paris’ defensive performance. The Eagles allowed just nine first downs compared to their own 21. Linebacker Joel Johnson picked up right where he left off from last season, leading the team with 11 tackles. Defensive linemen Blaine Maddox and Dawson Bradford combined for 15 tackles. Bradford was able to pressure the quarterback throughout the game and came up with a key 15-yard sack. A late goal-line stand highlighted the defense’s toughness and helped to seal the shutout. Despite the offense committing two turnovers, the defense remained ready and kept Waldron off of the scoreboard. It was a strong statement win and a testament to the team’s preparation and execution. 

Special teams aren’t often talked about, but they are the third phase of the game. The special teams for the Eagles delivered a solid performance in that area. In his first game at the senior high level, kicker Harley Barnhill went 3-for-4 on PAT attempts. The kickoff coverage unit did its job well, limiting Waldron’s return game and preventing favorable field position. Carter also contributed with a few good returns, including the opening kickoff of the game. 

With a strong 1-0 start in non-conference play, Paris will return home this Friday, September 5th, to take on the Lavaca Golden Arrows. Lavaca enters this matchup coming off a 30-26 win over the 4A Dover Pirates. Last season, the Eagles defeated the Golden Arrows 48-21 and will look to replicate that success. Paris hopes to build on its early momentum and secure back-to-back home victories to open the season.