Scrappers seize control late, roll past Malvern on the road

Published On: November 2, 2025Categories: High School, News

Nashville 42, Malvern 14

NASHVILLE, Ark. — Nashville answered an early punch and then dominated the middle rounds, turning a 7–7 first quarter into a convincing 42–14 road win at Malvern in 7-4A play Friday night. The Scrappers methodically leaned on the ground game and an opportunistic defense to pull away after halftime and cap a six‑touchdown night.

Sophomore quarterback Jacoby Hopson powered the go‑ahead surge with a fourth‑quarter keeper and earlier found senior two‑way standout Cortez Cooper on a 26‑yard strike. Junior Bryce Perrin punched in two short scores behind a surging front anchored by Jamison McIntosh and Deshawn Hawkins, while junior defensive back DaVonte “DB” Gilliam delivered the dagger on a pick‑six. Linebacker Abari Williams and edge rusher Makhi (MJ) Johnson lived in the backfield to stifle Malvern’s run game.

Malvern struck first behind senior Kyler Wright, who kept on a quarterback draw for a long score. Senior tailback Tavien Clegg churned out tough yardage between the tackles, and senior receiver Kahlen Cooper hauled in a third‑quarter touchdown that briefly pulled the Leopards within a score before Nashville slammed the door.

Scoring Summary

1st Quarter
Malvern – Kyler Wright 38‑yard run (PAT good), MAL 7–0.
Nashville – Bryce Perrin 5‑yard run (PAT good), 7–7.

2nd Quarter
Nashville – Bryce Perrin 2‑yard run (PAT good), NASH 14–7.
Nashville – Cortez Cooper 26‑yard pass from Jacoby Hopson (PAT good), NASH 21–7.

3rd Quarter
Malvern – Kahlen Cooper 24‑yard pass from Kyler Wright (PAT good), NASH 21–14.

4th Quarter
Nashville – Jacoby Hopson 14‑yard run (PAT good), NASH 28–14.
Nashville – DaVonte Gilliam 35‑yard interception return (PAT good), NASH 35–14.
Nashville – Touchdown, details not provided by official sources at publication (PAT good), Final: NASH 42–14.