2023 Post Season interview with Brenden Anthony Pikeville High school

Name: Brenden Anthony

Class: 2025

School: Pikeville

Positions played: LB/FB

What was the biggest goal you had set for yourself before the 2022 season, and did you achieve the goal?

The biggest goal I had set for myself for the 2022 season was to lead the team in tackles. I ended up coming in 4th with 120  behind our other three starting linebackers, Devin Derossett, Carson Wright, and Luke Ray.

What was the biggest goal you set for your team after all of the practices were completed heading into Game 1?

The goal is always winning a Class A State Championship at Pikeville.

In looking back at the 2022 season, which road stadium did you enjoy playing at the most? Explain.

The first game of year we played at Corbin in the Pigskin Classic. Every time they scored a touchdown, the big lights would turn off, and flashing red lights would shine down on the field. The energy and lights were great.

Who was the best team Pikeville faced in 2022, and what made them so good?

Corbin was the best team we faced. Their offensive line was really skilled and made it difficult for the defense to make plays.

Who was the best player that Pikeville faced in 2022, and which team did he play for?

5 star Qb Cutter Boley from LCA.

What are you going to miss from the 2023 class?

The biggest thing that I will miss from the 2023 class will be their leadership. These guys showed me what it takes to be a great leader and how to win a state championship.

What did you learn about yourself during the 2022 season that you can use to be a better player this season?

One of the biggest things that I learned about myself would be that I need to be more mean. Playing mean is not playing dirty. I need to learn how to channel that when I step on the field and in between plays. I'm learning how to be the baddest guy out there every play, and that will help me set myself apart next season.

What was it like winning your second straight state final?

Winning a state championship in high school football is amazing, but winning 2 back to back was incredible. There is no better feeling than hearing that last whistle blow on Kroger Field and knowing that you are a state champion. Playing a contributing role makes them mean so much more. How many people can say they are high school football state champions not once but twice?

Which side of the ball do you enjoy playing the most? Why?

Defense is my favorite side of the ball. The physicality and sheer meanness it takes to play linebacker are my favorites. There is nothing like destroying someone on a tackle.

Have you heard from any colleges about playing football, and would you name some of them?

Since I am a sophomore I currently can not talk to college coaches yet. I did participate in EKU’s Junior Day and it was awesome.