Raceland comes into the game with a 2-3 record, but they are way better than that record indicates. One of the losses comes to 4A Ashland, ranked #6 in the RPI in 4A with a record of 5-1, another to 3-time defending 1A state champion Pikeville 16-13, then to 5A power Highlands 35-0. This week they picked up a commanding 29-7 win against a very good Newport Central Catholic program and I'm sure Coach Sammons was pleased to see the passing attack pick up with Jacob Waller going 13/21 with 139 yards and a touchdown through the air. That has been the area Raceland has looked to develop and with a powerful runningback in Landen Stiltner, they look to be in position to be a contender in 1A.

Hazard is a fantastic program as well but dropped two in a row after starting the season 4-0. However, this is a powerful start under new head coach Matthew Chandler after the program went 1-10 last season. However, just two years ago Hazard had Raceland on the ropes in the regional final before eventually losing 17-14. Raceland would go on to make the state final before losing to Pikeville. As to the two losses on Hazard's schedule, one was a 21-19 loss to Breathitt County, the other a 51-28 loss to 4A power Corbin where Hazard actually led 21-16 going into halftime. Corbin would take over in the second half, but Hazard certainly showed that they were a team to be reckoned with. "Max Pelfrey to Gavin Johnson" has probably been said by many announcers this season, as Pelfrey has already thrown for nearly 1,500 yards (Latest game stats are not up at this time) and Johnson is on his way to 1,000 yards. Memphis Blankenship shores up the rushing attack, and if he continues his trend he will be on his way to 1,000 yards and possibly 20+ touchdowns. 

Raceland's strength this season has been their defense combined with their power running game. and they have played some teams that have rock solid attacks through the air. Hazard has allowed some points but they have scored 50+ twice and can score points in bunches. Should be a great matchup! What are your thoughts?

Top 5 Showdown here in Class 1A.  What’s the health of the teams? 

2 hours ago, Bac2369 said:

Top 5 Showdown here in Class 1A.  What’s the health of the teams? 

I am unsure on Hazard at this point, but for Raceland their team has mostly remained intact.

After seeing how Raceland played against Newport Central Catholic, I have a hard time picking against them to lose this one. Good luck to both teams.

Hazards key to win this game is not get behind the chains to much and not turn the ball over. They will need to get off the field on 3rd downs and not try to control both LOS.  Quarterback back play could be huge in this one. 

12 hours ago, Bac2369 said:

Hazards key to win this game is not get behind the chains to much and not turn the ball over. They will need to get off the field on 3rd downs and not try to control both LOS.  Quarterback back play could be huge in this one. 

If Hazard’s quarterback is good and can pass, that’s what they need to do or try. I was surprised Newport Catholic didn’t try more with their passing game with the quarterback that they have.

11 hours ago, hrcarrier said:

If Hazard’s quarterback is good and can pass, that’s what they need to do or try. I was surprised Newport Catholic didn’t try more with their passing game with the quarterback that they have.

Max Pelfrey is 106/152 for 1489 yards and 14 touchdowns, and 4 INTs. 
 

The weather looks to be shaping up very nicely for this one. Football weather.

I think the first team to 20 wins this one. 

I figured they would be more chatter in this thread. Where is all the Raceland fans? 

Coach Chandler posting the game day pic early this week.

Hazard will be short handed tonight as starting wide receiver/defensive back is out for probably 3/4 weeks.

This game will have my Full Attention tonight... Good Luck to both Teams... 

1 minute ago, Bulls on Parade said:

This game will have my Full Attention tonight... Good Luck to both Teams... 

This and for you Pikeville tonight. 

Yessir... Will have my other eye on that one too....