I have to agree with Graybeard on the prediction of this game, this will be Ashland biggest test since Russell, and I don’t think you can judge Mason by the Boyd C game.

 

I have seen both of the teams play and I think it will boil down to defense;

Ashland has come a long way in this department... when Ashland Played Belfry they didn’t do so well on defense, but since then, the defensive coaching has gone to a 6 man tackle rotation that has proved to be very effective. This seems to keep the big guys from tiring, along with the defense line (Ashland) must have good pass coverage.

 

If Mason can move the ball well it’s going to be a tuff game for Ashland, on the other hand if Ashland can control the football offensively then it may prove to be a long night for Mason

 

My prediction Ashland 35, Mason 28

 

Trimmer

On a side note, I had the opportunity to meet Coach Buchanan at Myrtle Beach this year. I don't know if he remembers or not, but I introduced myself to him at the Tiger exhibit at Barefoot Landing. Good luck to you this Friday night Coach, but not too much.

 

 

I do remember meeting you and your family! I can tell you it is easier to coach a football team of 73 kids than it is to keep my 3 little ones happy, getting along, and behaving at Myrtle Beach.

 

I hope alot of the Ashlands fans will join our fans for the tailgate beginning at 5:15. The food is great and it goes to support our kids.

 

We are looking forward to a great night of football. Ashland has a very good football team led by an outstanding man and coach in Leon Hart.

 

Our kids have come a long way, and have worked hard to bring a game of this caliber to our home field. Our fans have hung with us through good times and bad- they deserve this kind of game at home as well as our players.

 

If it is ok, I think I will pass on predicting a score.

Why was the mason\boyd game so close?

Why was the mason\boyd game so close?

 

As has been the case in several of Mason County's games this season, the Royals jumped out to a quick lead, then relied on their defense to seal the deal. Sometimes the offense can get a little stale in those situations. In addition, Boyd was able to dominate the line of scrimmage from the end of the first quarter until early in the fourth, when they finally wore down a little.

 

I'm told that the Royals are looking at some more offensive sets; my guess is that they will need a full bag of tricks against the Tomcats. With four RBs that bring different skill sets to the table, look for the Royals to possibly even unveil the wishbone. I'm not sure that they're ready to use the bone on Friday night, but there are a couple more practice days between now and then; and most everyone knows that Coach Buchanan loves the occasional trick play and unusual set.

 

A big district game - Ashland can't afford to overlook the Royals in anticipation of the JC matchup; while the Royals, who many thought would be in a bit of a rebuilding year, would love to start 2-0 in district play.

:bunny:

 

 

:sssh: :confused:

It seems that every game this year has been a pivotal one for the Tomcats. Other than the season opener, I can’t think of any game in which Ashland was a clear favorite, and WE LOST that one to a very good Raceland team. Based on the results since that opening loss, this perpetual underdog role seems to serve Ashland well though. Mason, IMO, is one of the better coached teams we have faced this year (and we have faced some dandies, i.e. McGlone, Haywood).

 

Im amazed at some of the predictions on this thread calling for an Ashland blow-out. The Cats should win the game IF they continue to work hard and execute up to their capabilities but being an away game against a very dangerous opponent doesn’t exactly make me want to bet the farm.

I really dont see this as a blow out. Mason played a bag game against Boyd but are 5-1 and their only loss is to Lafayette. The Royals will play a much better game but it wont be enough imo...

Ashland 24

Mason 14

Mason wins tonight. Coach Buchannan is one of the best coaches when it comes to preparing for a big game.