John Hardin (2-2), generated 260 rushing yards against Fairdale Friday night enroute to a 28-16 victory. The Bulldog's passed for only 64 yards while giving up 55 yards on the ground and 150 passing yards. 

The Bulldog defensive secondary gives up too many big plays thru the air and needs to see improvement in the coming weeks if it hopes to compete for a District Championship. 

Marion County comes into this matchup with a 3-1 record, defeating Bethlehem, Washington County and WEB DuBois Friday night. Their only loss came at the hands of Knox Central 20-19 on August 19th. 

Like John Hardin, Marion County relies on their ground game to generate offense. They are averaging 200 yards per game on the ground but only average 15 yards thru the air per game. Yes, you read that right, 15 yards thru the air per game.

This game comes down to which defensive front can limit the opponents rushing game. 

You would have to think that the Bulldogs have an advantage with Pittman in the backfield.

My Prediction: John Hardin 28 Marion County 14

 

 

I can see an upset brewing in this matchup.  John Hardin's strength is running the football while Marion County's strength to this point is stopping the run.  Who can win the game in the trenches is what this game will come down to.

Marion is very intriguing to me... All of their wins so far this year are against not great teams but they are winning games and likely coming into this game with some confidence. JH played a good half of football last Friday against Fairdale, connecting on 2 passing touchdowns early in the game and taking a lead early. But struggled again in the 2nd half before finally pulling away in the 4th. This game will likely be close due to the amount of possessions with both teams heavily leaning on the run. Dawgs must come out ready to play this week if they want to win this game and honestly JH needs to win this one if they have any postseason aspirations this year.

I agree with that statement DawgsFan100. The teams Marion has beaten has a combined 6-6 record right now. The only team Marion has beaten that is over .500 is Washington Co who is 3-1.

This is not the same 'ol Marion County. They are much better. Not great, but better. I'm calling the Marion County upset 26-21.

Underrated storyline in this game: Marion County head coach Ross Brown was an assistant at JH for a LONG time when Mark Brown and Chad Lewis were head coaches. Lots of respect for Ross and what he brings to that program. 
 

Key to me this week will be can John Hardin maintain gap responsibilities against the Wing-T? I do think Marion is improved but verdict is still out on how much. JH should have the better athletes on the field. Give me the Dawgs this week. 
JH - 29

Marion - 15

NFHS Video:

https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/hardin-county-schools/gamef92eb7683

At the half Marion leads 22-14. John to receive 2nd half kickoff

John Hardin 30 Marion County 29 overtime, Final.