It’s Going to Get Crowded At The Top

The recent history of Class 2A has been a story of the Haves and the Have Nots. For the past five seasons, you could probably select three teams and give everyone else the field and still predict your State Champion.

 

Last season it was nearly a foregone certainty to many that the State Final would run through either Mayfield or the two Louisville Private Schools and this rang true as Christian Academy-Louisville broke through for their first State Title. The Centurions, along with rival DeSales and perennial powerhouse Mayfield, dominated the top of the rankings throughout the season.

 

As the calendar flips to the 2017 season it seems a changing of the guard is also in order.

 

Sure, those three powerhouses previously mentioned are going to be in the thick of things, but thanks to heavy roster returns you can double the number of legit Title threats in Class 2A come Fall. Chief among these will be Clay Clevenger’s Danville Admirals who made Christian Academy- Louisville very uncomfortable in the State Finals and return essentially everything but their QB1.

 

LCA will trot out numerous 3-year starters and an Offense with so many fireworks that they may have to rename the annual pyrotechnic display to “Thunder Over Lexington”. Owensboro Catholic has played the bridesmaid to Mayfield’s bride over the years, but with big time star power returning the Aces may finally get to walk down the aisle and out of the Region.

 

Newport Central Catholic is always going to be a threat and the Breds have a familiar last name toting the rock that is sure to give some PTSD to D-Coordinators the next two seasons.

 

All told, 2017 is the year the cream rises to the top in Class 2A. Historical programs are restoring their tradition, younger programs are transitioning to powerhouses, and programs that have went “All In” playing talented Sophomores and Freshman are seeing them mature into Senior leaders.

 

What will define the eventual Champion? Will it be ironclad tradition? Will it be a veteran Senior Class? Will it be elite individual talent? Will it be the motivation of revenge? Will it be young talent we have not even seen?

 

Parity has been a staple in the middle of the class and will continue to hold form for the next tier of teams. Several programs have large question marks surrounding a couple known certainties in returning stars. The last three spots in the Top 10 will most likely be a revolving door throughout the season as the different school’s ebb and flow with the difficulty of their schedules.

 

The Rankings

1. Danville Admirals (12-3, State Runner-Up)- Losing a QB like Zach Dampier is often a fatal blow to a small school team with Title aspirations. It’s not every day that a guy that throws for over 6000 yards and over 70 TD’s in a two-year span leaves a 2A program.

So, Danville should take a step back in 2016 right? There’s no way they reach the Finals again? Well about that…

 

You will be hard pressed to find another team in Kentucky that returns as much experience as Danville. The Ads not only return the farm, they return the whole Zip Code! The Admirals will certainly rekindle some old fears as they return 9 starters each way.

 

The first place that immediately stands out is on Offense where RB Don Harris and burner WR Dmauriae VanCleave return over 2600 all-purpose yards and 35 TD’s of production. If that is not enough David Walker also returns at WR and may be one of the most underrated players in Class 2A. Walker was a TD scoring machine at the Wide-Out spot tallying 16 scores on only 58 grabs. To say he is a homerun threat is an understatement.

 

Defensively the Ads improved tremendously as the season grew on in 2016 and were playing at a very high level over their playoff push. As good as Harris is as a RB, he may be even better as a LB. Zach Thornton was a 100+ tackle performer and will anchor the secondary along with VanCleave who is a Pick 6 waiting to happen.

 

Clay Clevenger has restored Danville to the level most people associate with the powerhouse program. The Ads path to the Big Show isn’t a cakewalk though. District rival LCA literally played Danville in two instant classics and will certainly be their primary antagonist in 2017.

 

2. Christian Academy of Louisville Centurions (14-1, State Champions)- It had to feel good to Coach Stefan LeFors to get the monkey off his back and reach beyond the 3rd Round. It could be argued no program in all of Kentucky has a more rapid trajectory than CAL as the Eastern Louisville private school is quickly becoming a powerhouse in all capacities. The 2016 State Title was CAL’s first, but it would be safe bet it is far from the last.

 

Will that trajectory keep CAL at the top of Class 2A? Well that is yet to be determined but you must like their chances led by quite possibly the best all-around football player in the entire State of Kentucky in JR ATH Milton Wright. Wright has D-1 scouts drooling and last season he had Class 2A coaches simply wishing he was already set to take his talents to the next level. Wright is a rare talent and can completely change the game in all aspects: Offense, Defense, or Special Teams.

 

Don’t be fooled into thinking CAL is a single horse stable. Wright isn’t even the only D-1 prospect as OL Nick Osolfka anchors a massive line for such a small school. CAL also returns QB Austin Carr who is one of the better QB’s in Jefferson County.

 

Defensively CAL has some big holes to fill, specifically in the Front 7 where the Centurions were dominant at times. It was the CAL defense that carried them through the playoffs. Osolfka is a mountain of a foundation, but guys like DE Chase Lanham will need to step up to help get CAL back to the Championship in a loaded class.

 

3. Lexington Christian Academy Eagles (12-1, Lost to Danville in Regional Finals.)- “To the Victor Goes the Spoils”

 

No team in Kentucky knows this more than LCA. The Eagles were undefeated and the District Champions with a heart stopping victory over Danville included. The re-match though went the way of the Admirals in a game that met another common cliché “Neither Team Deserved to Lose”. The Admirals went on to a State Runner-Up and a ton of off-season praise and expectations, deservedly so considering what they return.

 

The Eagles though would be quick to point out “what might have been.” Had LCA had the last laugh in the back and forth Regional Final the Eagles may be the team everyone was talking about. They return a loaded roster chock full of multi-year starters and game breakers.

 

The LCA Offense will be one of the most potent in the State pound for pound. It all starts with RB Dillon Wheatley who has topped the 2000 All-Purpose yards in back to back seasons. QB Brayden Miller is equally as dangerous, especially with superb athletes like Logan Nieves, Ryan Stucky, Caelan Lebryck and Drayden Burton at his disposal. Nieves brings a change of pace at Quarterback and can stretch even the stingiest Defense with his feet.

 

Defensively, Burton is also a game changer. Jed Green joins him in the Secondary to form a No-Fly Zone. DE Graham Parks and OLB Will McLurg will take care of their business in the Front 7.

 

There is no question LCA is going to cause scoreboard operators to perform some maintenance on Saturday’s following their games, but the big question will be can they get the last laugh on Danville?

 

 

 

4. DeSales Colts (10-3, Lost in Regional Finals to CAL.)- DeSales has planted their stake as one of the most perennially sound Defensive units in all of Kentucky and that claim to fame was on full display in 2016. DeSales gave eventual State Champion CAL all they wanted but simply could not find the Offense to get over the hump.

 

The Colts will return 6 starters on the Defensive side of the ball including LB’s Ashton Baum, Omari Milligan, and Alex Schneider. Perhaps the biggest addition though will be the guy coaching the aforementioned ‘Backers. Ty Scroggins stepped away from Louisville Central and chose to take a break from being a Head Coach, but he will step to the plate to help make DeSales even scarier on the Defensive side.

 

The big question though remains what happens on the Offensive side. The Colts really struggled at times and their lack of point production may have been the difference in a 3rd Round exit and a State Title. There is a light in the tunnel though. QB Aaron Pfaadt proved a solid commodity once taking over the starting job and WR Jordan Watkins was their leading receiver.

 

Expect a Championship Caliber Defense which may be the best in all of Class 2A. If the Colts can find their form changing the scoreboard it could be scary.

 

 

5. Mayfield Cardinals (13-1, Lost to CAL in the Semi’s.)- Graduation was VERY unkind to Mayfield. Let’s not mistake this fact. The Cardinals lost three guys who will likely go down in school history in QB Landon Arnett, RB Trajon Bright, and LB Kincer Arnett. All told expect a lot of new faces behind those signature red facemasks, and for most 2A programs this would mean a year to rebuild.

 

Mayfield is NOT “most 2A programs” though! As long as the Coach’s last name is Morris expect the Cardinals to still post a double-digit win season and contend among the Top 5 teams in the class.

 

WR/DB Jack Murrell emerged as a playmaker as Arnett’s #2 target last year and will now be asked to step into the limelight. Defensively the Cards will still be tough. MLB Kyle Hurt and S Nate Fox are anchors in the back seven that any team wish they had, while DE Brady Smith will be a key cog to the Defensive Line.

 

Expect youth to be on display, particularly at QB, but Morris has proven to be one of Kentucky's premier Offensive Minds. The Cardinals may take a few losses early in the season, but come November expect them to once again be at the forefront of the Class 2A playoff picture.

 

6. Owensboro Catholic Aces (11-2 Lost in Regional Finals to Mayfield.)- If you have not seen Junior RB Vonn Williams play, do yourself a favor and either get to an Aces game or watch them on video. Williams has prototype size and rare instincts on the field and will undoubtedly be playing on Saturday’s in front of thousands of people before it is all said and done. Returning Williams alone would make Owensboro Catholic a viable contender, but throw in 2000-yard passer Will Warren in Coach John Edge’s QB friendly system and suddenly you have the makings of a team capable of challenging even the loaded teams at the top of the class. WR Nick Mills will be Warren’s top threat.

 

The Aces have had a hard time dealing with Mayfield, but then again who hasn’t? With the Cardinals having to fill their starting lineup with new faces the window for Owensboro Catholic's success couldn’t be larger than 2017. The Aces Offense should be stout, but the team in green has some rebuilding of their own to do on Defense. DE Noah Todd is as solid of a lineman you could hope to return and LB Josh Sloan was the #2 tackler a year ago.

 

 

7. Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbreds (7-6, Lost in the Regional Finals to Covington Holy Cross.)- The Semi-Final Round just seemed a little off in 2016. Covington Holy Cross spoiled a highly anticipated re-match between Danville and the Breds and in the process ended an impressive streak of Finals appearances for the team in gold and blue.

 

Newport Central Catholic will have a different look as some household names have since moved on to Freshman Orientation, but one familiar name will now explode onto the scene as one of Class 2A’s premier talents. If you know anything about NewCath you know the name “Kelly” is synonymous with “Rushing Touchdown”, and Junior RB Kyle Kelly will definitely find himself acquainted with the end zones of Newport Stadium. Kelly isn’t the only threat in the Breds’ backfield, Jason Decker would start for a good majority of 2A teams himself. Hunter Cain will replace Patrick Henschen behind Center. The Breds have also called on the hardwood for some reinforcements. Brennan Hall will contribute in some fashion, most likely as a WR.

 

The biggest question mark for the Breds will be on Defense where they must replace the brunt of their starters including some top shelf Linebackers. The Breds’ schedule, as it always is, will be absolutely brutal with 3 defending State Champs and three 6A schools. The D will be a work in progress, but if they can stay healthy and improve as iron sharpens iron in the non-district slate, you can expect NewCath to still make a path to the carpet a tough chore.

 

 

8. Somerset Briarjumpers (7-5, Lost in 2nd Round)- “Two’s Company but Three’s a Crowd.” Somerset has the pieces in place to have a solid team in 2016 and in most years the Jumpers would be a favorite to win the Region. Unfortunately, with two District Mates loaded with talent the sledding may be up-hill. QB Mason Reese has a luxury in WR/DB Josh Cornett at his disposal. Cornett is a star on both sides of the ball and will make push for a 1000-yard season catching the ball. DL Collin Hartmann had a huge year in 2016 and will anchor a solid unit that will need to be in peak form against the dynamic Offenses in the way of their playoff success.

 

Perhaps the biggest key will be filling the void left by versatile RB Jordan Doan. Ty Tevis will be asked to step into the spotlight and will be the “X-factor”. Tevis’ impact may decide whether Somerset will be a good team with a limited ceiling, or if they may just have enough to contend for a Regional Championship against some 2A heavyweights.

 

9. Walton-Verona Bearcats (7-5, Lost in 2nd Round)- The school from Boone County’s southern tip nearly upset the applecart in 2016. In August Covington Holy Cross had defeated Walton-Verona 44-0 sending a clear message of the District pecking order in NKY. When the two teams met again in the 2nd Round, it was the Bearcats who gave the eventual Region Champs a lot of heartburn eventually falling by 3 points.

 

Walton-Verona has a few vacancies they must replace, but return 8 starters on Defense and 9 on Offense. Additionally, their Offensive system is conducive to interchangeable parts, so the couple key losses will be further minimized. Garet Talbott and Mason Smith will make for a tough 1-2 Combo in the backfield. Zach Clinkenbeard returns on the outside as a viable receiving threat. The entire Offensive Line remains relatively intact.

 

Defensively DT Colton Catlett and S Tyler Schrader return in addition to Smith and Clinkenbeard who will play both ways. Jr Grant Grubbs also returns as a two-way starter and was one of the Bearcats top tacklers a year ago, on Offense he will hold down one of the Guard positions.

 

If Walton-Verona can plug some key holes and copy the steady improvement they were able to show in 2016, could a Regional Final berth be in the cards? The bad news for W-V is cross bracketing was unkinder to them than any other Class 2A team. Instead of facing their fellow Northern Kentucky schools in what may be a bit of transition year, the Bearcats now draw the powerhouse Louisville District led by CAL and DeSales.

 

 

 

10. Glasgow Scotties (8-3, Lost in 2nd Round.)- Glasgow is kind of one of those programs that sneak up on you when you view the hierarchy of success of Class 2A teams. Though the Scotties have never won a State Title, they have a collection of Runner-Up’s, as well as Regional Championships, and have sustained success as waves of talent came and went.

 

The 2017 edition is filled with talented underclassmen, and though Glasgow may be better suited for a deep run in 2018, if the youth movement can improve ahead of schedule they may be able to make things interesting come playoff time. Glasgow will benefit from cross-bracketing and will potentially get to host a team making a long trek from NKY.

 

WR/DB Griffin Murphy ended as one of the top receiving threats in Class 2A hauling in 920 yards and 15 TD’s. Expect his role to expand and also expect Sophomore RB Nick Mitchell to breakout as the feature back and find success running behind mammoth OT Tanner Bowles.

 

On Defense, the Scotties are going to have to grow up fast. Outside of Murphy Glasgow will see several new faces. Junior DB Donta Oates has all the tools to be a lockdown defender with prototype size. DE Gavin Burd is an underrated talent at DE.

OTHER TEAMS TO WATCH:

 

Covington Holy Cross Indians (10-4, Lost to Danville in Semi’s.)- It was a roller coaster ride for Holy Cross in 2016 that ended with a Regional Title and revenge against their mighty District rivals. Derrick Barnes and Xavier Abernathy will now be suiting up on Saturday’s, along with it taking the brunt of Holy Cross’ play-making on each side of the ball. Dylan Couch will transition from a supporting role at QB to the leading man.

 

Leslie County Eagles (10-2, Lost in 2nd Round)- The Eagles soared to a District 8 Title and a 10-1 record before giving Danville a sporting effort before falling in the Playoffs. Leslie must replace a strong Senior Class, but the Eagle program has built itself under Coach Melton to a point they should be able to still be considered the early favorite to re-peat. Darron Whitaker will get complete control under Center and should have a breakout season.

 

Washington County Commanders (3-9, Lost in 2nd Round)- When 2-8 Washington County upset Metcalfe County in Round 1 it didn’t really resonate on a lot of people’s radars, but for the Commanders this was a big step forward. Upon closer inspection Washington County played one of the more difficult schedules in Class 2A with several close losses to larger schools and losses to teams with sterling records and playoff runs. QB John Floyd was a 2000-yard passer and returns for his Senior campaign. RB Jbias Dawson will be a nice compliment.

 

Lloyd Memorial Juggernauts (6-6, Lost in 2nd Round)- Lloyd never quite unleashed the Juggernauts in 2016. Despite a talented roster with individual play-makers, Lloyd never could put it all together and really never threatened for a Regional Title. Travon Mason will be called upon to be the cornerstone if Lloyd Memorial wants to compete.

 

Prestonsburg Blackcats (6-5, Lost in 1st Round)- The 2016 season was a forgettable one for the Blackcats and 2017 now becomes a watershed year for one of 2A’s prouder programs. Ethan Varney is a star in the making but unless Prestonsburg can compete for a District Title another 1st Round playoff loss could be awaiting in a brutal region.

 

Butler County Bears (8-4, Lost in 2nd Round)- Rex Henderson is taking his talents to the OVC and the Bears have a huge void to fill after back to back winning seasons. Talent is still left in RB Houston Hampton and last year’s leading receiver Gage Ward.

 

Murray Tigers (4-8, Lost in 2nd Round)- In the rich history of Murray football 2016 was one of the low points. The Tigers hobbled to a 4-win season and improvement should be expected in 2017. The Tigers' offense wasn’t exactly in pristine form and will still have lots of work to do, but 8 starters returning on Defense should help them turn some L’s around.

 

Monroe County Falcons (3-8, Lost in 1st Round)- Monroe County had a lackluster 2016 campaign but sees seven starters return on Offense and eight on Defense including versatile QB Ty Mink.

 

TOP 20 2A PLAYERS TO WATCH:

1. Milton Wright, ATH- CAL

2. Dillon Wheatley, RB- Lexington Christ. Academy

3. Dmauriae VanCleave, ATH- Danville

4. Vonn Williams, RB- Owensboro Catholic

5. Donlevy Harris, RB/LB- Danville

6. Brayden Miller, QB- Lexington Christ. Academy

7. Nick Osolfka, OL/DL- CAL

8. Logan Nieves, ATH- Lexington Christ. Academy

9. Josh Cornett, WR/DB- Somerset

10. David Walker, WR/DB- Danville

11. Will Warren, QB- Owensboro Catholic

12. Drayden Burton, WR- Lexington Christ. Academy

13. Kyle Kelly, RB- Newport Central Catholic

14. Jack Murrell, WR/DB- Mayfield

15. Austin Carr, QB- CAL

16. Ethan Varney, RB- Prestonsburg

17. Will Slone, DL- Owensboro Catholic

18. Griffin Murphy, WR/DB- Glasgow

19. Mason Smith, RB/LB- Walton-Verona

20. John Floyd, QB- Washington County

 

CROSS -BRACKETING IMPACT

The KHSAA has implemented cross-bracketing and it will effect the playoff match-ups for some teams. Regions 1 and 4 will not see a change and will continue to hold form.

 

Region 2 and 3 will see District 3 and 5 swap.

 

For Region 2:

District 4 (CAL, DeSales, Shawnee, Washington County) will now face District 5 (Carroll County, Gallatin County, Owen County, Trimble County, Walton-Verona). If seeds are equal, the Regional Finals will be hosted by the team representing District 5. If the seeds are not equal the Regional Finals will be hosted by the lower seeded team otherwise. Regardless of who wins Region 2, the Semi-Finals will be hosted by the Region 1 winner since it is an odd numbered year.

 

For Region 3:

District 3 ( Glasgow, Green County, Metcalfe County, Monroe County) will now face District 6 (Cov. Holy Cross , Lloyd Memorial, Newport, Newport Central Catholic). If seeds are equal, the Regional Finals will be hosted by the school representing District 3. If the seeds are not equal the Regional Finals will be hosted by the lower seeded team otherwise. The winner of Region 3 will host the winner of Region 4 in the Semi-Finals regardless of seed.

 

TEN CLASS 2A GAMES NOT MISS:

8/18 1A Russellville at Glasgow

8/19 Danville vs. 6A Frederick Douglass

9/1 Owensboro Catholic at 5A Owensboro

9/1 Danville vs. 3A Boyle County

9/15 Christian Academy- Louisville at Newport Central Catholic

9/15 Walton-Verona at Lexington Christian Academy

9/22 Mayfield vs. 3A Corbin at Austin Peay University

10/6 DeSales at Christian Academy- Louisville

10/20 Danville at Lexington Christian Academy

10/27 Owensboro Catholic vs. 5A South Warren

Edited August 15, 20179 yr by hoops5

ttt

Excellent work!!

Awesome read! Thank you!