Bentonville West Defeats Little Rock Central 54-7 in Playoff Opener

Bentonville West Defeats Little Rock Central 54-7 in Playoff Opener

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Bentonville West secured a decisive 54-7 victory over Little Rock Central to open their Arkansas high school football playoff run in Centerton.

The Wolverines controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, utilizing a high-pressure defense to stifle the Tigers’ offensive rhythm. This win advances the program as they play the intense opening rounds of the postseason, KHBS reported.

The margin of victory reflects a game that was decided largely by momentum shifts and defensive efficiency. While Little Rock Central managed to find a brief window of opportunity in the second quarter, they could not overcome the sustained scoring output of the Wolverines.

The Wolverines established their dominance early through defensive execution. By pressuring the Little Rock Central quarterback, the Bentonville West defense forced a three-and-out during the first quarter while holding a 6-0 lead.

26-27 Football – West Wolverines (W4) vs Central Tigers (C5)Friday November 13, 2026 Playoffs RD 1 — Wolverine Athletics School Productions

This defensive stand provided the foundation for the offense to take control near midfield. V.J. Warren provided one of the game’s most explosive plays, making a defender miss before sprinting 49 yards for a touchdown. That score pushed the lead to 13-0 and shifted the psychological weight of the game firmly toward the Wolverines.

Little Rock Central attempted to mount a comeback early in the second quarter. A deep pass moved the Tigers to the 1-yard line, allowing them to score on the very next snap and briefly narrowing the gap to 16-7.

The response from Bentonville West was immediate and clinical. Senior Dane Rennick returned the ensuing kickoff to the 20-yard line, a play that allowed the Wolverines to reclaim momentum. Shortly after, Sutton Mackey connected with Ryan Adjam for a touchdown pass, effectively ending Central’s hopes of a sustained rally.

Following the touchdown by Adjam, the Wolverines continued to widen the gap, eventually finishing the contest with the 54-7 scoreline. The lopsided result highlights the gap in execution between the two sides during this specific playoff matchup.

The Wolverines now turn their attention to the next stage of the postseason. They are scheduled to face Conway in the 7A State Quarterfinals on Nov. 20.

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