Belfry comes into this week’s game off of a rare loss. Granted the loss was to a very good Ohio team. Pikeville got a win, but was given all they wanted by a good Raceland team. Both look to step it up. Who wins?

Two teams who still have the pieces to win a State Title, but needing to work through some issues.

 

Belfry's OLine simply is not progressing the way they had hoped and are struggling to maintain blocks or open holes. Until the OLine can become more consistent, Belfry is going to have to rely on individual Offensive effort from their backfield which can win games, but not against well coached or equally athletic teams.

 

Pikeville's Offense has regressed as well and they are facing similar struggles in that when the numbers are a disadvantage in the box, they are not doing well against penetration to their run game or pressure in their passing game.

 

Both teams' defenses appear to be right where they want them.

 

For Belfry, this game has extra meaning because with a 9-game schedule and a 5 team District, it is clear that the Pirates need a couple big RPI wins. Both Pikeville and Johnson Central will carry a lot of RPI Points so getting at least one of those wins are a must.

If Dixon is back this week I think Belfry can generate enough big plays, but this one may be tighter than some are expecting.

 

I am going to say 28-14 Belfry.

 

I think Pikeville will create some negative plays with their Defense, enough to make Belfry finishing drives tough. I also think Pikeville is going to take a similar approach as last year where they know their best chance to win is to "Out-Belfry Belfry" and they will try to reduce possessions and keep the clock moving.

My belief is that Pikeville has been holding their cards the last two weeks just awaiting this game, not wanting to show anything. The team I saw in week 1 is explosive. I think Collum, the linebacker/fullback, is the difference-maker. Pikeville in the upset.

Belfry 35

Pikeville 17

This is an interesting match up and I will take the Pirates.

Word is Dixon will be a gametime decision for Belfry.

ttt

Pikeville with two three and outs.

Belfry fumbled on their first possession and turned it over on downs on their second after gaining good yards.

 

No Dixon for Belfry.

0 to 0 still.

Pikeville gets a couple first downs but stalls out on 4th Down.

 

End of 1st

Belfry 0

Pikeville 0

Belfry into the red zone on a nice option pitch to Bentley.

Hensley one yard TD Belfry.

 

Belfry 7-0

 

9:22 in 2nd.

Another three and out for Pikeville. Birchfield playing a very good CB spot tonight.

 

Bentley with a nice punt return and Belfry starts in Panther territory.

Pikeville gets a stop on 3rd Down but make an ill advised horse collar to continue the drive.