Zack Smith carries the ball and the East Lawrence defense. He had 50 yards on 8 carries. | Todd Barker

Todd Barker
Special to the Enquirer

CADDO – There was a familiar feeling in the air at East Lawrence High School Friday night.

The Priceville Bulldogs (4-2, 2-2) were putting points on the board, but unlike last year they were winning the game and looking to post another Class 4A, Region 8, victory by the score of 42-13.

Priceville scored early in the first quarter on an 18-yard run by Kaleb Barker but missed the extra point attempt.

East Lawrence (1-6, 0-4) responded quickly with a touchdown and extra point conversion to lead 7-6.

The Bulldogs began to dominate the line of scrimmage and took control of the game in the second quarter. Kaleb Barker threw a dart to Ben Patterson on a slant pattern that resulted in a 53-yard touchdown play. The Bulldogs then converted on a two-point conversion to take the lead again at 14-7.

The Eagles’ offense was stopped on an interception by Priceville’s Michael Whitefield.

Taking advantage of the turnover, the Bulldogs responded with a power-running attack.

Running back Zack Smith had gains of 31 and 32 yards to get to the one-yard line. Barker plunged in for the third score, giving the ‘Dogs a 21-7 lead at the half.

The Bulldog offense continued to pile up yards and points while the defense shut down the Eagles starting in the second half.

Priceville scored three more times with Barker connecting on a long pass to Cody Barber, followed by a run by Ben Patterson and another long pass from Barker to Patterson. Barker completed eight of 15 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns with an interception. He also had 13 carries for 119 yards with two scores.

Patterson contributed 50 yards rushing and 149 receiving to help the ‘Dogs reach a season high 524 yards of offense.

East Lawrence scored a second touchdown late in the game but failed to convert on a two-point conversion attempt.

“We can’t just go through the motions,” Bulldog head coach Dirk Strunk said. “The kids are finally starting to see that if we keep doing what we are supposed to do, good things will happen.”

The Priceville football program has not posted a 4-2 winning record for a number of years.

Priceville takes on Haleyville this Friday night at home to keep the drive alive to reach the playoffs.