Benton High School promoted defensive coordinator Brad Harris to head coach Thursday night.
The hiring was approved by the Benton School Board. Harris replaces Scott Neathery, who stepped down as coach earlier this month to become athletic director.
Neathery hired Harris before the 2014 season, in which the Panthers played in the Class 6A state championship game.
Harris was the head coach at Lincoln for six seasons (2008-2013) and was at Arkadelphia for five seasons (2003-2007). He led Lincoln to 11 victories in 2013 and an appearance in the Class 4A quarterfinals.
Benton, which finished 9-3 last season and advanced to the Class 6A semifinals, will play in the 6A-West Conference this season. The Panthers open the 2016 season Sept. 2 against Saline County rival Bryant in the Salt Bowl at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock.
— Jeremy Muck