It's the one you've been waiting for - the game of the year in 4A. Ashland enters at 9-0, and are seeking their first unbeaten regular season since 1975. They're averaging just over 39 points per game, and the 21 they gave up to Greenup County last week was their most allowed since August. They stunned everyone a year ago in knocking off Johnson Central 21-18 in the regular season finale, before falling in the playoffs to them 54-27 - their lone blemish in the past 19 games. Meanwhile Johhnson Central is 7-1, and remain unbeaten against teams from the state of Kentucky. Their win over Henry Clay is better than any on Ashland's schedule, and they have not scored less than 33 points since their loss in the season opener - they haven't scored less than 43 since the second game of the year. Importantly, they have the game at home, where they haven't lost to an in-state team since 2016. Ashland hasn't won there since 2001. Even with Franklin-Simpson in between them, the winner of this game will have a strong argument for #1 in the class, and it is very anticipated that this is the first of two meetings. Who takes round 1?

We played Ashland and I watched Johnson Central play on our Bye week. Ashland has skill speed but JC has physical skill speed. Ashland's key to victory is to strike early and often with their speed. JC's key to victory is clock management and sustained drives that limit Ashland's touches. All of this talk to say I think JC wins by 2+ scores.

I think this is a game where Ashland will really miss Cade Brandt. The Tomcats had success against JC last year with big plays in the passing game, and Brandt was the epitome of a big play WR before his injury. With Ratliff, Hester, and Pittman, Ashland has the speed to hurt JC in space. I'm just not sure they can sustain enough drives to match JC score for score, because I expect Joe Jackson and Co. to march up and down the field at will behind that powerful O-line.

 

Ashland's got to create some turnovers like they did in last year's regular season meeting. JC did a better job of holding on to the ball in the playoff rematch, and they wore the Tomcats down in the 4th quarter.

I think this is a game where Ashland will really miss Cade Brandt. The Tomcats had success against JC last year with big plays in the passing game, and Brandt was the epitome of a big play WR before his injury. With Ratliff, Hester, and Pittman, Ashland has the speed to hurt JC in space. I'm just not sure they can sustain enough drives to match JC score for score, because I expect Joe Jackson and Co. to march up and down the field at will behind that powerful O-line.

 

Ashland's got to create some turnovers like they did in last year's regular season meeting. JC did a better job of holding on to the ball in the playoff rematch, and they wore the Tomcats down in the 4th quarter.

 

 

Isn't Brandt supposed to play this Friday?

Gotta go with my Tomcats.

Isn't Brandt supposed to play this Friday?

 

I have no idea. That would be huge for Ashland if he's good to go.

Although you’d never hear either team say it, I’m sure both have been preparing for or looking at this game since 4 weeks ago. It’s no secret both programs are heads above the other District competition.

 

With that being said, I’d expect nothing but an excellent game from both squads. Both teams bring there own style to the game. Ashland will look to spread the field and utilize their great athletes in space while JC will look to just line up and make you match their physicality. JC has seen great athletes with good speed on 2 occasions, one being with Capital and the other Henry Clay. They are 1-1 in those matchups. On the other hand, Ashland hasn’t played anyone, except for maybe Ironton, that will line up and run at you. Obviously by now, both teams know each other’s tendencies inside and out.

 

I have no idea how this thing will play out, but I do think based on prior years and this seasons results, I’d have to give JC a 1-2 TD advantage. JC will have to put contained pressure on Ratliff or he could shred them for big gains with his feet or other playmakers.

 

Should be a good one! Can’t wait for Friday night! Good luck to both squads but I hope in the end it’s the Eagles that are Victorious!