Game Details
- Teams: Har-Ber Wildcats vs. Pulaski Academy Bruins
- Date: Friday, November 15
- Kickoff: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Pulaski Academy, Little Rock, Arkansas
- Watch: Live on NFHS Network
How to Watch
Fans can catch the game live on the NFHS Network, which provides high school sports coverage nationwide. The NFHS Network requires a subscription, which grants access to live games, replays, and highlights.
Game Preview
This highly anticipated matchup pits the Har-Ber Wildcats against the Pulaski Academy Bruins in a game that promises to be a display of offensive firepower, athleticism, and skill. Both teams have strong records this season and are known for their high-scoring offenses, making this a must-watch game.
Team Overview
Har-Ber Wildcats
- Record: 7-4
- Coach: Chris Wood
- Key Players: QB Luke Buchanan, RB Brandon Jacobs, WR Carter Bennett, LB Alex Ramos
- Strengths: Strong passing game, aggressive defense, versatile offense
- Weaknesses: Defensive secondary susceptible to big plays
Pulaski Academy Bruins
- Record: 10-1
- Coach: Anthony Lucas
- Key Players: QB Grayson Wilson, WR Charlie Barker, RB Mason Cobb, DB Jake Fisher
- Strengths: Explosive passing offense, high-scoring ability, experienced coaching staff
- Weaknesses: Susceptible to turnovers under pressure
Team Comparisons
- Offense
- Har-Ber: The Wildcats have a potent offense, led by QB Luke Buchanan, who is known for his ability to make quick decisions and distribute the ball effectively. RB Brandon Jacobs adds a powerful ground component, balancing the offense and making it challenging for defenses to focus on one aspect. WR Carter Bennett is Buchanan’s go-to receiver, known for his route-running skills and ability to make clutch catches. Har-Ber’s offense is versatile and can score both through the air and on the ground.
- Pulaski Academy: Pulaski Academy is well known for its explosive and high-powered offense. QB Grayson Wilson has had a stellar season, frequently connecting with WR Charlie Barker for big plays. RB Mason Cobb is a consistent threat out of the backfield, capable of gaining significant yardage and keeping defenses honest. Pulaski’s offense is famous for its risk-taking, often attempting fourth-down conversions rather than punting, a strategy that has kept opposing defenses guessing and sometimes back on their heels.
- Defense
- Har-Ber: The Wildcats’ defense is anchored by LB Alex Ramos, a hard-hitting linebacker who excels at stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Har-Ber’s defensive line is solid, but the secondary has been somewhat inconsistent, which may be a challenge against Pulaski’s prolific passing attack. The Wildcats’ defense will need to bring its A-game to slow down Pulaski’s dynamic offense.
- Pulaski Academy: The Bruins’ defense is aggressive and opportunistic, often focusing on creating turnovers to shift momentum in their favor. DB Jake Fisher is a standout in the secondary, known for his ball-hawking abilities. Pulaski’s defense, while strong, can occasionally give up big plays, particularly if the opposing offense manages to sustain long drives. They’ll aim to put pressure on Buchanan and limit Jacobs’ effectiveness in the run game.
- Special Teams
- Har-Ber: The Wildcats’ special teams are consistent, with a reliable kicker and a disciplined return game. They typically avoid mistakes on special teams, emphasizing solid field position and ball security.
- Pulaski Academy: Pulaski Academy’s special teams play is notable for its willingness to take risks, including onside kicks and unconventional punt formations. This element of surprise has often given them an edge and shifted momentum at key moments in games. Special teams could be a deciding factor, especially if the game is close.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Quarterbacks: Har-Ber’s Luke Buchanan vs. Pulaski Academy’s Grayson Wilson
- Both quarterbacks are playmakers with strong arms and impressive field vision. Buchanan’s decision-making and ability to stay calm under pressure will be critical, while Wilson’s big-play ability and accuracy downfield make him a constant threat. This quarterback duel could determine the tempo and rhythm of the game.
- Running Backs: Har-Ber’s Brandon Jacobs vs. Pulaski’s Defensive Line
- Jacobs brings a powerful presence to Har-Ber’s offense, capable of breaking tackles and gaining tough yards. Pulaski’s defensive line will need to contain Jacobs to limit Har-Ber’s options on offense. If Jacobs gets going, it will open up passing lanes for Buchanan, making the Wildcats even more dangerous.
- Wide Receivers and Defensive Backs: Pulaski WR Charlie Barker vs. Har-Ber’s Secondary
- Barker has been Wilson’s favorite target this season and is a reliable deep threat who can stretch the field. Har-Ber’s secondary will have their hands full trying to contain Barker and prevent big plays. This matchup is crucial, as Barker’s ability to get open downfield could be a game-changer.
- Linebackers: Har-Ber LB Alex Ramos vs. Pulaski’s Offensive Line
- Ramos is the leader of Har-Ber’s defense and excels at stopping the run and putting pressure on the quarterback. Pulaski’s offensive line will need to account for Ramos on every play, as his presence could disrupt their rhythm. If Ramos can pressure Wilson consistently, it could force Pulaski into mistakes and keep the game within reach for Har-Ber.
Odds & Prediction
Odds
While high school games don’t have official betting odds, Pulaski Academy is considered the favorite due to their explosive offense, home-field advantage, and strong season record. Har-Ber’s balanced team and effective offense give them a solid chance, especially if they can establish the run and keep Pulaski’s offense off the field.
Prediction
Pulaski Academy Bruins 35, Har-Ber Wildcats 28
Pulaski’s high-scoring offense and aggressive defensive style give them an edge in this matchup. Har-Ber’s balanced approach will keep the game close, but Pulaski’s big-play ability and home-field advantage may prove decisive in the end.
Key Factors to Watch
- Game Tempo: Har-Ber may attempt to control the clock with its running game to limit Pulaski’s time of possession. Pulaski, meanwhile, will likely seek to keep the game fast-paced to exploit their offensive explosiveness. The team that controls the tempo will likely have an upper hand.
- Turnover Battle: Both defenses are skilled at creating turnovers, and in a close game, one turnover could be the difference. Pulaski’s aggressive style may lead to more opportunities for big plays but also risks turnovers.
- Red Zone Efficiency: Converting red-zone opportunities into touchdowns instead of field goals will be essential for both teams, especially if the game is close. Har-Ber’s red-zone defense will be tested by Pulaski’s efficient offense, and the team that capitalizes on these chances will likely take the win.
- Special Teams Impact: Pulaski’s willingness to take risks on special teams adds an element of unpredictability. Har-Ber will need to be prepared for onside kicks and trick plays that could shift momentum. Special teams could be critical if the game is tight in the final minutes.
The Har-Ber vs. Pulaski Academy matchup promises to be a thrilling and high-stakes game. With both teams bringing strong offensive and defensive units, the outcome may hinge on which team can control the tempo, capitalize on turnovers, and execute in the red zone. Fans can tune in on the NFHS Network to catch all the action as these two talented teams battle it out for a chance to advance in the postseason.
