Tomcats and Panthers party like it's 1967

Regardless of who comes out on top at Kroger Field, Class 3A will crown a champion ending a decades long drought. Ashland hasn't won, or even played for a title, since 1990. Elizabethtown got a crack at hoisting the hardware more recently, in 2003, but hasn't won it all since 1969. The Tomcats and Panthers share a little championship history. Jack Hallum led Ashland to its first playoff era title in 1967, besting E'town in the Class 2A finals, 19-14.

But enough about the past, it's time to focus on the here and now. 

Ashland's defense has been lauded all season as one of the state's best, pound for pound. Ten opponents have challenged that unit, and the Tomcats have answered the bell every time. Belfry was the latest victim, falling prey to some Tomcat toughness and a little Putnam Stadium magic in the semifinals. For its part, Elizabethtown kept CAL at bay in its semifinal win with balanced offense and a splash of timely defense and special teams. It was nothing new for E'town. They've executed all three phases of the game at a high level this season.

The Panthers come in averaging 45 points per game, while Ashland has only allowed 45 points all year. Simply put, something's got to give.

On an individual note, the 3A championship game will feature a clash of Mr. Football watchlist regulars. Clay Games has been Mr. Perfect this year for Elizabethtown, while Ashland's Keontae Pittman can strike opponents like a bolt of lightning. Other names to watch for include E'town's two way standouts Khia Sherrard (ATH), Camran McNeil (RB/LB), and Ryan Piles (OL/DL), as well as Ashland's JT Garrett (ATH), Caleb Tackett (LB/RB), and Hunter Gillum (DB/RB).

Kickoff is set for 11am on Saturday, December 19th.

Love this final!

There has only been two times since the 6-class system started in 2007 that a 3A Finals features did not feature a team named Louisville Central or Belfry in it (2009 and 2017). This year we will see it for the third time!

Etown has been a team working their way toward this point over the past decade and have certainly looked the part of a contender this year. Ashland finished undefeated and has a defense playing at a historic pace. It is pretty clear these two teams are rightfully the two best teams in 3A this season and I expect a barn burner!

Ashland's defense is extremely good. They are fast, strong tacklers, and their coaching staff has them superbly prepared and they play with a great football intellect. E'town's balanced offense will pose them troubles, but if the Tomcats can show the same preparedness they have exhibited throughout this campaign I will take them in narrow fashion!

I like Elizabethtown.

Who had Elizabethtown vs. Ashland for the 3A Title at the start of the year?  

Probably nobody.  But they are two schools, with towns- a whole heck of a lot more than just a couple gas stations and drive-throughs, both always in the mix and have been there before- all be it some years for both since being there last.  
 

Extremely well coached teams.  Tradition rich schools. Great towns.

Predicted? No

Shocked? Also no.

20 minutes ago, TheDeuce said:

I like Elizabethtown.

Same here.  Should be a great game, but give me the Panthers.

Everyone this is the Ashland/Etown Prediction/Update thread, please keep it on topic.

I've liked Etown all year but I'm going to have to go with the Ashland's defense to be the difference. 

Ashland 14

Etown 10.

ETown 21-6

Tomcats hopefully keep their eye on the prize and don’t dwell on last nights Win. They stay focused and they can bring home the trophy.

How do you get tickets?

 

I'm taking E'town.

Got my tickets. Let’s go Tomcats!!!!!!!