Greenbrier on verge of being elite 5A program

GREENBRIER — Greenbrier’s dream season continues tonight with a rare home playoff game.

For the second time in as many weeks, the Panthers are playing in the confines of Don Jones Stadium. Only this time, Greenbrier’s task will be tougher.

The Panthers (8-3) will attempt to slow down a top-rated running back in Little Rock Christian’s Michael Dyer. Dyer, who recently gave his oral pledge to sign with Auburn, rushed for over 250 yards in the Warriors’ upset victory at Forrest City in last week’s first round game.

“We’re glad that we’re able to bring in the best running back in the state,” Greenbrier coach Randy Tribble said. “We’re going to line up and see how we can do and what to do to stop him.”

Greenbrier’s coaching staff understands how important slowing down Dyer is. Morrilton’s Justin Criswell had a career-high day when the Devil Dogs fell to the Panthers, 56-33 in Week 8. Criswell ended with 434 yards rushing and five touchdowns.

“Defensively, when Chase Lear went out, we were kind of worried,” Tribble said. “But, those guys have hung in there. They’re doing what they can do. Zac Perry has really shown leadership on the defense, along with Matt Cain. Ryan Alexander is another one of those sophomores who have had a good year. We have some people who are making some contributions.”

Christian (8-3) and Greenbrier have one opponent in common this season, Morrilton. The Warriors slipped past the Devil Dogs in their last non-conference game, 44-42. While the Panthers dropped two conference games, Harrison and Greenwood, the Warriors lost three. Magnolia beat Christian 38-10; Camden Fairview rung up 50 points on the Warriors in its victory and Hope grounded out Christian, 26-14.

The Warriors’ defense also has its work cut out against Greenbrier’s offensive threats. According to Christian coach Justin Kramer, Greenbrier’s Neal Burcham may be the best quarterback that his team has seen this year.

“He’s good,” Kramer said. “He does a nice job of running their offense.”

Two years ago, the Warriors made it to the 5A state championship game when Dyer was a sophomore, under former coach Johnny Watson. Christian fell just shy of the title as Greenwood was able to come away with the win.