Nicholas County is a dark horse pick by many to be a title contender this year in 1A. They get a chance to show their stuff in game 1 versus a top 1A opponent Bethlehem. Last year Bethlehem had no problem in 28-8 win over Nicholas County. If Nicholas County is a contender, they need to turn the tables on Bethlehem this year. This is another key 1A battle that we need a full scouting report on. Who are the players to watch? How will this game shape up? Which team will win and why?

Bethlehem should be a solid team. They could be a dangerous team later in the season.

I know nothing about Bethlehem but this is my prediction. If Richardson and Dailey do not play the score will be similar to last year's. If they do it will be a very close game, I'll give the edge to the Bluejackets. On paper one might not think two players make that much of a difference, but Dailey and Richardson will probably see 80-90% of the touches on offense this season. Combine that with how the Jackets played last week without them and you might have a team that thinks they're beat before the opening kickoff without them.

Going on the Fleming County scrimmage results, Nicholas loses this one with a running clock

Fun opening game, if Nicholas Co. can learn how to utilize their offense a bit better, they can win this game. Going with Bethlehem.

I know nothing about Bethlehem but this is my prediction. If Richardson and Dailey do not play the score will be similar to last year's. If they do it will be a very close game, I'll give the edge to the Bluejackets. On paper one might not think two players make that much of a difference, but Dailey and Richardson will probably see 80-90% of the touches on offense this season. Combine that with how the Jackets played last week without them and you might have a team that thinks they're beat before the opening kickoff without them.

 

Are Richardson and Dailey not going to play in this game? Why not?

Are Richardson and Dailey not going to play in this game? Why not?

I am not sure. They did not play in the EKC Grid-o-Rama vs Fleming County is the only reason I said that.

Are they injuried?

Bethlehem has an experienced and mobile QB in Matthew Hagan..dangerous kid....lost some experienced linemen. I think Hagan is the difference in this game unless, NC can keep him in the pocket.

Are they injuried?

 

I would assume so. They were on the sidelines but not dressed. Not sure the extent of their injuries. Maybe it was minor but they didn't want to risk further injury in the scrimmage.

Bethlehem by 3 TD's especially if weather permits a normal passing game. Nicholas really struggled to defend the pass. If Dailey and/ or Richardson are still out then it could be more.

I am not sure. They did not play in the EKC Grid-o-Rama vs Fleming County is the only reason I said that.

 

A handful of expected Bethlehem starters sat out their scrimmage, I'm told, including Hagan. They're all expected to go Friday, though.

 

Eagles lost most of their line, but they have size returning. Will be interesting to see how that unit progresses as Bethlehem has most of its skill guys back.

This defensive unit was different that the one that played last week, I'll give it to the Bethlehem they are a good team. But that D tonight was lock down. Aside from one long pass play late in the game Nicholas could do not wrong. The big boys played much, much better. Coach Hopkins and the boys in blue need to sure up the offence, but it was an impressive win on the road tonight. Way to step up tonight guys!