The first Division II playoff appearance for Henderson State since 2015

Arkadelphia, Arkansas – In the Battle of the Ravine last weekend, Henderson State defeated Ouachita Baptist, a rival school across town, to earn an at-large bid to the NCAA Division II playoffs.

“I think everyone is pumped to get another week together,” Henderson State wide receiver Chris Hatzis said. “There are a lot of sixth-year seniors, and I’m one of those guys. The fact that we got to Week 12 is a blessing. I think we’re happy to suit up with each other one more time.”

To defeat Central Missouri and their undefeated offense, which is headed by redshirt junior quarterback Zach Zebrowski’s 388 passing yards per game, the Reddies will need to improve their defensive performance.

“That’s probably been our biggest focus… how we can contain that offense,” Henderson State head coach Scott Maxifield said. “We just have to play our game and don’t panic.”

Henderson State is unbeaten on the road and has a 9-2 overall record going into the playoffs.

“Every season, this is our goal,” Hatzis said. “Last week was a playoff game for us, so in my eyes. We are 1-0 in the playoffs and are going to the next round.”

On Saturday at 1 p.m. Central, the Reddies will take on Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri. The NCAA website will provide live streaming of the match.