playoffs and moved them into eighteenth national ranking. However, in order to clinch a playoff bid, the Bisons would have to defeat Central Arkansas, who was ranked number two nationally. Harding was ready to face the challenge. The Bisons looked strong and a victory was within reach. A brilliantly played defensive game, led by Steve Dudley, Mickey Adkinson, Dennis Leverson, Kenneth Forte, and Brent Ledoux , held Central Arkansas to on1y 166 total yards. However, despite threats to score after key catches by wide receivers Jack Moore and Alexander, the Bison offense was riddled with turnovers. Central Arkansas was able to capitalize on these turnovers and defeat Harding, 21-3. The playoffs alluded the Bisons, but a successful year was achieved. Although this success was due to a team effort , there were several individuals who received post-season laurels. Named to the All-AIC first team were Alexander, Forte, and Adkinson. Those named to the second team were Dudley, Davis, and John Collins. Also, Leverson ended the season ranked nationally with interceptions with six . Several players commented on the success of the season. "I felt that this year's success was due to the determination of the team to win and strong leadership," stated junior Lowery. Adkinson commented, "The team unity we had this year and the committment were keys to our success." Junior Keith Perry felt that the Bisons were successful because "we expected to come out on top in every game." The season in which the Bisons ended with a 22nd national ranking was Head Coach John Prock's last as he retired after 28 years at Harding. His great relationship with his players, his coaching abilities , and his tremendous Influence on many who played for him, were greatly appreciated by players , alumni , and faculty. Before last fall even began, the Bison cheerleaders had spent a 40-- hour week perfecting their cheers for the upcoming semester. After a tiring eight-hour day of "hip, hip, hoorays," the girls met with the football players to quench their thirst with KoolAid - the cheerleaders' treat! - Jack Moore and Karen Reynolds Kicker. Junior David Eskew from Germantown, TN, punts the pigskin . Eskew was a physical education major who believed first-hand experience was the best way to learn. - photo by Ken BisseJJ. 1 g 0 Athletics OFootbal/ Football
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