The Warren Lumberjacks, ranked third in the state, opened their 2024 playoff campaign in dominant fashion, defeating the Central Arkansas Christian (CAC) Mustangs 35-13 in the first round of the state playoffs at Jim Hurley Jr. Stadium.
Warren (8-2) wasted no time asserting their dominance over the visiting Mustangs (3-7), the fifth seed from District 2-4A. CAC started with promise, but their opening drive ended with a costly interception at midfield. Warren’s offense capitalized quickly, with quarterback Cam Burks finding Tremon Miller for a 24-yard touchdown pass. Juan Marquez’s extra point gave the Lumberjacks a 7-0 lead just minutes into the game.
On CAC’s ensuing drive, Warren’s defense made another statement. Josiah Steen intercepted a pass and returned it 29 yards for a touchdown, putting the Lumberjacks up 14-0 with 8:34 remaining in the first quarter.
Warren’s offense continued to shine. Following a blocked punt, Aaron Davis broke free for a 31-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 21-0 midway through the first quarter. Minutes later, Burks connected with Miller on a 42-yard bomb for their second touchdown of the night, pushing the score to 28-0 before the quarter ended.
The Mustangs struggled to find answers against Warren’s relentless defense. Plumlee’s third interception of the half, this time by Cam Davis, set up another Lumberjack score. Burks delivered a highlight-reel moment in the second quarter, connecting with Antonio Jordan for a one-handed, 14-yard touchdown grab. With Marquez’s extra point, Warren entered halftime leading 35-0.
The second half began under the sportsmanship rule with a running clock. Despite a fumble on their first play of the third quarter, Warren’s lead remained insurmountable. CAC managed two touchdowns in the second half, with Eli Cash and Cook finding the end zone, but the Mustangs’ efforts came too late.
Freshman quarterback Logan Gavin took over for Warren in the second half, allowing the Lumberjacks to rest their starters. Brayden Smith and Neondre Thomas contributed key plays to maintain control and run out the clock.
With the victory, Warren advances to the second round, where they will host Pocahontas next Friday at Jim Hurley Jr. Stadium. The Lumberjacks’ quest for another state championship remains alive, bolstered by a balanced offensive attack and a stingy defense that forced three turnovers in the first half alone.
The Lumberjacks are now focused on building momentum as they prepare for the 2nd round, where they will aim to move one step closer to Little Rock.
