Eagles look to avoid Hornets sting

NEWTON — Newton enters Friday’s road matchup at Hardin as the clear favorite in district play, but the Eagles may also be facing the one opponent on their schedule capable of making them uncomfortable. Newton has built its offense around a powerful rushing attack led by Kendray Porter Jr., giving the Eagles a reliable identity that has been difficult for opponents to slow down. When Newton is able to establish the run early, the offense can control possession, wear down defenses and keep pressure off the passing game. That formula has helped make the Eagles the team to beat in the district. Hardin, however, represents the most significant challenge Newton is likely to face before the postseason. The Hornets have enough physicality and defensive ability to keep the game competitive if they can limit explosive runs and force Newton into longer third-down situations. The location also matters. Newton will have to make the trip to Hardin, putting the Eagles in what should be their toughest district environment of the season. A fast start would go a long way toward preventing the home crowd from becoming a factor and keeping Hardin from building confidence. The Eagles enter the matchup coming off a dominant 46-6 victory over Liberty-Eylau followed by a bye week. Newton’s defense was just as impressive as its offense in that win, with Solomon Bray scoring a defensive touchdown as the Eagles controlled the game from start to finish. Now Newton gets a chance to measure itself against the strongest threat remaining in district play. Porter and the rushing attack will likely remain the centerpiece of the game plan. If Newton consistently wins at the line of scrimmage and stays ahead of the chains, Hardin could have difficulty getting the Eagles off the field. For Hardin, the path to an upset likely depends on creating turnovers, winning field position and preventing Newton from turning the game into a physical rushing contest. Newton should enter Friday expecting to win, but not expecting an easy night. If the Eagles take care of business on the road against Hardin, they will have cleared what appears to be their biggest remaining obstacle in district play and strengthened their position as the team everyone else is chasing.